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<p>US President Joe Biden&nbsp;has come under fire for carrying out strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen. The strikes, which were carried out without congressional approval, have earned the ire of Biden's fellow democrats who said that the action was "unconstitutional" and that he "needs to come to Congress" before launching a strike.</p>

<p>The American President was also slammed on social media as people dug out an old post he made on Twitter, now known as X, in which he promised to use "military power responsibly".</p>

<h2><strong>Biden Administration defends move</strong></h2>

<p>The strike, which were made in collaboration with the United Kingdom comes&nbsp;after a series of Houthi drone and missile strikes on commercial ships in the Red Sea.</p>

<p>Calling the strikes a "defensive action" Biden, as per AFP, said he "will not hesitate" to order further military action if needed.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-uk-launch-massive-strike-against-houthi-rebels-in-yemen-679159">US and UK launch massive strikes against Houthi rebels, 5 killed</a></strong></p>

<p>UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak too called the strikes "necessary and proportionate" and said that the Houthis' breach of international law merited a "strong signal" in response.</p>

<p>"People can't act like this with impunity," said Sunak, adding the Houthi attacks were "disrupting the global economy"</p>

<h2><strong>Democrats criticise Biden</strong></h2>

<p>Indian American lawmaker Ro Khanna in a post on X slammed Biden and said: "The President needs to come to Congress before launching a strike against the Houthis in Yemen and involving us in another Middle East conflict. That is Article I of the Constitution. I will stand up for that regardless of whether a Democrat or Republican is in the White House."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The President needs to come to Congress before launching a strike against the Houthis in Yemen and involving us in another middle east conflict. That is Article I of the Constitution. I will stand up for that regardless of whether a Democrat or Republican is in the White House.</p>
— Ro Khanna (@RoKhanna) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoKhanna/status/1745590169493745693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Section 2C of the War Powers Act is clear: POTUS may only introduce the U.S. into hostilities after Congressional authorization or in a national emergency when the U.S. is under imminent attack. Reporting is not a substitute. This is a retaliatory, offensive strike," he added in another post.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-external-affairs-minister-jaishankar-to-visit-iran-on-jan-15-679396">India's External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to visit Iran on Jan 15</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The President needs to come to Congress before launching a strike against the Houthis in Yemen and involving us in another middle east conflict. That is Article I of the Constitution. I will stand up for that regardless of whether a Democrat or Republican is in the White House.</p>
— Ro Khanna (@RoKhanna) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoKhanna/status/1745590169493745693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Echoing Khanna's sentiments, Justin Amash, a member of the Libertarian part said: "If President Biden had enough time to form a multinational coalition to plan and conduct strikes in Yemen, then he had enough time to seek and obtain an authorization from Congress as our Constitution requires."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If President Biden had enough time to form a multinational coalition to plan and conduct strikes in Yemen, then he had enough time to seek and obtain an authorization from Congress as our Constitution requires.<br />
<br />
Without this authorization, any nondefensive military action is…</p>
— Justin Amash (@justinamash) <a href="https://twitter.com/justinamash/status/1745633418946240640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Netizens troll Biden</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, X users&nbsp;trolled Biden over a post he made&nbsp;during the 2020 Presidential campaign. Biden during the campaign had&nbsp;said,&nbsp;"As President, I will use military power responsibly and as a last resort. We will not go back to forever wars in the Middle East."</p>

<p>Digging up the old post, users poked fun at the US president. One user commented, "Well the lie detector determined that was a lie".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Well the lie detector determined that was a lie</p>
— The Big Nachoski (@BigNachoski) <a href="https://twitter.com/BigNachoski/status/1745632578206658930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Dementia?" questioned another, while a third user labelled it "a joke".</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Biden: UK, US successfully struck Houthi targets in Yemen</strong></p>

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<p>"This didn’t age well," pointed out another user, "We don’t owe Israel anything," said&nbsp;another X user.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Then please stop giving my tax dollars to Israel! You are funding a forever war against Palestine. WWII ended in 1945. Haven’t we worked through our American guilt for not taking Jewish refugees during the war? We don’t owe Israel anything. Sanctions, not cash, for them.</p>
— Meidas Cathy 🕊️🇺🇦🇵🇸 (@OldGinger) <a href="https://twitter.com/OldGinger/status/1745628318462833022?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US President Joe Biden has come under fire for carrying out strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen. The strikes, which were carried out without congressional approval, have earned the ire of Biden's fellow democrats who said that the action was "unconstitutional" and that he "needs to come to Congress" before launching a strike.

US President Joe Biden has come under fire for carrying out strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen. The strikes, which were carried out without congressional approval, have earned the ire of Biden's fellow democrats who said that the action was "unconstitutional" and that he "needs to come to Congress" before launching a strike. The American President was also slammed on social media as people dug out an old post he made on Twitter, now known as X, in which he promised to use "military power responsibly". Biden Administration defends move The strike, which were made in collaboration with the United Kingdom comes after a series of Houthi drone and missile strikes on commercial ships in the Red Sea. Calling the strikes a "defensive action" Biden, as per AFP, said he "will not hesitate" to order further military action if needed. Also read | US and UK launch massive strikes against Houthi rebels, 5 killed UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak too called the strikes "necessary and proportionate" and said that the Houthis' breach of international law merited a "strong signal" in response. "People can't act like this with impunity," said Sunak, adding the Houthi attacks were "disrupting the global economy" Democrats criticise Biden Indian American lawmaker Ro Khanna in a post on X slammed Biden and said: "The President needs to come to Congress before launching a strike against the Houthis in Yemen and involving us in another Middle East conflict. That is Article I of the Constitution. I will stand up for that regardless of whether a Democrat or Republican is in the White House." The President needs to come to Congress before launching a strike against the Houthis in Yemen and involving us in another middle east conflict. That is Article I of the Constitution. I will stand up for that regardless of whether a Democrat or Republican is in the White House. — Ro Khanna (@RoKhanna) January 11, 2024 × "Section 2C of the War Powers Act is clear: POTUS may only introduce the U.S. into hostilities after Congressional authorization or in a national emergency when the U.S. is under imminent attack. Reporting is not a substitute. This is a retaliatory, offensive strike," he added in another post. Also read | India's External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to visit Iran on Jan 15 The President needs to come to Congress before launching a strike against the Houthis in Yemen and involving us in another middle east conflict. That is Article I of the Constitution. I will stand up for that regardless of whether a Democrat or Republican is in the White House. — Ro Khanna (@RoKhanna) January 11, 2024 × Echoing Khanna's sentiments, Justin Amash, a member of the Libertarian part said: "If President Biden had enough time to form a multinational coalition to plan and conduct strikes in Yemen, then he had enough time to seek and obtain an authorization from Congress as our Constitution requires." If President Biden had enough time to form a multinational coalition to plan and conduct strikes in Yemen, then he had enough time to seek and obtain an authorization from Congress as our Constitution requires. Without this authorization, any nondefensive military action is… — Justin Amash (@justinamash) January 12, 2024 × Netizens troll Biden Meanwhile, X users trolled Biden over a post he made during the 2020 Presidential campaign. Biden during the campaign had said, "As President, I will use military power responsibly and as a last resort. We will not go back to forever wars in the Middle East." Digging up the old post, users poked fun at the US president. One user commented, "Well the lie detector determined that was a lie". Well the lie detector determined that was a lie — The Big Nachoski (@BigNachoski) January 12, 2024 × "Dementia?" questioned another, while a third user labelled it "a joke". Watch | Biden: UK, US successfully struck Houthi targets in Yemen "This didn’t age well," pointed out another user, "We don’t owe Israel anything," said another X user. Then please stop giving my tax dollars to Israel! You are funding a forever war against Palestine. WWII ended in 1945. Haven’t we worked through our American guilt for not taking Jewish refugees during the war? We don’t owe Israel anything. Sanctions, not cash, for them. — Meidas Cathy 🕊️🇺🇦🇵🇸 (@OldGinger) January 12, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

Biden's 'defensive action' against Houthis in Yemen earns him Democratic ire and trolling on X

<p>Peru's prosecution office on Friday requested a 34-year prison sentence for former president Pedro Castillo, accused of rebellion over his failed bid to dissolve Congress and "carrying out a coup d'etat."</p>

<p>The leftist Castillo was arrested in December 2022 after he tried to disband Congress and rule by decree, sparking months of deadly protests.</p>

<p>The public prosecution office wrote on social media that it was seeking the stiff jail term against Castillo for "crimes of rebellion, abuse of authority and serious disturbance of public peace."</p>

<p>In the request presented to court, Castillo is accused of "carrying out a coup d'etat."</p>

<p>When he was elected in 2012, Castillo was the first leader of the Andean nation with no ties to the elites, and was hailed as the country's first poor president.</p>

<p><strong>Gravitas | Will there be an oil war in South America?</strong></p>

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<p>Born in a tiny village where he worked as a teacher for 24 years, he surged to prominence leading a national strike.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Once elected president, he became locked in a power struggle with the opposition-led Congress, and was accused by the attorney general of heading a criminal organization involving his family and allies that handed out public contracts in exchange for money.</p>

<p>The 54-year-old has maintained he was the victim of a political conspiracy between the right-wing opposition and the attorney general.</p>

<p>"I never took up arms," he has told court hearings since his arrest.</p>

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<p>Castillo was replaced by his vice-president Dina Boluarte, who faced protests and demands she step down and hold an early election.</p>

<p>An ensuing crackdown by security forces left almost 50 people dead, according to an estimate by Human Rights Watch, which accused the authorities of extrajudicial and arbitrary killings.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/archaeologists-uncover-lost-cities-which-existed-2000-years-ago-in-ecuadorian-amazon-679334">Archaeologists uncover lost cities which existed 2,000 years ago in Ecuadorian Amazon</a></strong></p>

<p>Boluarte is facing a probe over the deaths of the protesters, although she enjoys immunity until her term ends in 2026.</p>


Peru's prosecution office on Friday requested a 34-year prison sentence for former president Pedro Castillo, accused of rebellion over his failed bid to dissolve Congress and "carrying out a coup d'etat.

Peru's prosecution office on Friday requested a 34-year prison sentence for former president Pedro Castillo, accused of rebellion over his failed bid to dissolve Congress and "carrying out a coup d'etat." The leftist Castillo was arrested in December 2022 after he tried to disband Congress and rule by decree, sparking months of deadly protests. The public prosecution office wrote on social media that it was seeking the stiff jail term against Castillo for "crimes of rebellion, abuse of authority and serious disturbance of public peace." In the request presented to court, Castillo is accused of "carrying out a coup d'etat." When he was elected in 2012, Castillo was the first leader of the Andean nation with no ties to the elites, and was hailed as the country's first poor president. Gravitas | Will there be an oil war in South America? × Born in a tiny village where he worked as a teacher for 24 years, he surged to prominence leading a national strike. Once elected president, he became locked in a power struggle with the opposition-led Congress, and was accused by the attorney general of heading a criminal organization involving his family and allies that handed out public contracts in exchange for money. The 54-year-old has maintained he was the victim of a political conspiracy between the right-wing opposition and the attorney general. "I never took up arms," he has told court hearings since his arrest. Also Read | US embassy in Colombia warns visitors against dating apps after deaths of eight Americans in two months Castillo was replaced by his vice-president Dina Boluarte, who faced protests and demands she step down and hold an early election. An ensuing crackdown by security forces left almost 50 people dead, according to an estimate by Human Rights Watch, which accused the authorities of extrajudicial and arbitrary killings. Also Read | Archaeologists uncover lost cities which existed 2,000 years ago in Ecuadorian Amazon Boluarte is facing a probe over the deaths of the protesters, although she enjoys immunity until her term ends in 2026.

Peru prosecutor seeks 34-year sentence for ex-president Castillo

Polling to elect the next President and the running mate began on Saturday in Taiwan. Polls closely watched as China steps up its rhetoric over self-ruled Island. Taiwanese voters will be choosing a successor to Tsai Ing-wen, the nation's first female president, who cannot seek re-election due to term limits after winning in 2016 and 2020.

Taiwan Elections 2024: Closely watched polls in self-ruled Island

<p>This year could be hotter under El Nino's influence than the record-shattering 2023, the United Nations warned Friday, as it urged drastic emissions cuts to combat climate change.</p>

<p>The UN's World Meteorological Organization said new monthly temperature records were set every month between June and December, and the pattern is likely to continue due to the warming El Nino weather phenomenon.</p>

<p>The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicted there is a one in three chance that 2024 will be warmer than 2023 -- and a 99 percent certainty that 2024 will rank among the five warmest years ever.</p>

<p>NASA climatologist Gavin Schmidt, director of the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies, estimated the odds were even higher.</p>

<p>"I put it at about 50-50: 50 percent chance it'll be warmer, 50 percent chance it will be slightly cooler," he told AFP, adding there were hints of "mysterious" changes to Earth's climate systems, that would nonetheless require more data to confirm or refute.</p>

<p>The UN's WMO weather and climate agency said July and August last year were the two hottest months ever recorded, as it officially confirmed 2023 had been the warmest year on record "by a huge margin".</p>

<p><strong>Watch | El nino and export restrictions threaten supply chains into 2024 | World Business Watch</strong></p>

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<p>The WMO said the 2023 annual average global temperature was 1.45 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels (1850-1900).</p>

<p>The 2015 Paris climate accords aimed to limit global warming to well below two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels -- and 1.5C if possible.</p>

<p>The WMO's new secretary-general Celeste Saulo warned that El Nino, which emerged mid-2023, is likely to turn up the heat even further in 2024.</p>

<p>The naturally-occurring climate pattern, typically associated with increased heat worldwide, usually increases global temperatures in the year after it develops.</p>

<p>"The shift from cooling La Nina to warming El Nino by the middle of 2023 is clearly reflected in the rise in temperature," she said.</p>

<p>"Given that El Nino usually has the biggest impact on global temperatures after it peaks, 2024 could be even hotter."</p>

<h2><strong>Humanity's 'biggest challenge'</strong></h2>

<p>NOAA said the 2023 global surface temperature was 1.18C above the 20th-century average, and was hotter than the next warmest year, 2016, by a record-setting margin of 0.15C.</p>

<p>The Arctic, northern North America, central Asia, the North Atlantic and the eastern tropical Pacific were particularly hotter, it said.</p>

<p>Saulo said climate change was now "the biggest challenge that humanity faces".</p>

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<p>A WMO report in November found that concentrations of the three main heat-trapping greenhouse gases -- carbon dioxide,&nbsp;<br />
methane and nitrous oxide -- reached record high levels in 2022, with preliminary data indicating that the levels continued to grow in 2023.</p>

<p>"Climate change is escalating -- and this is unequivocally because of human activities," said Saulo.</p>

<h2><strong>'Catastrophic future' awaits</strong></h2>

<p>UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said humanity's actions were "scorching the Earth".</p>

<p>"2023 was a mere preview of the catastrophic future that awaits if we don't act now," he said.</p>

<p>The WMO said that since the 1980s, each decade has been warmer than the previous one -- while the warmest nine years on record had all been since 2015.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/archaeologists-uncover-lost-cities-which-existed-2000-years-ago-in-ecuadorian-amazon-679334">Archaeologists uncover lost cities which existed 2,000 years ago in Ecuadorian Amazon</a></strong></p>

<p>The EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service issued its 2023 temperature findings on Tuesday, while NOAA and NASA released theirs simultaneously with the WMO on Friday.</p>

<p>The WMO consolidates figures from six major international datasets to provide an authoritative temperature assessment.</p>

<p>It said the 10-year average temperature from 2014 to 2023 was 1.20C above the pre-industrial average.<br />
Even if Earth's average surface temperature breaches the 1.5C mark in 2024, it does not mean the world has failed to meet the&nbsp;</p>

<p>Paris Agreement target of capping global warming under that threshold.</p>

<p>That would occur only after several successive years above the 1.5C benchmark, and even then the 2015 treaty allows for the possibility of reducing Earth's temperature after a period of "overshoot".</p>


This year could be hotter under El Nino's influence than the record-shattering 2023, the United Nations warned Friday, as it urged drastic emissions cuts to combat climate change.

This year could be hotter under El Nino's influence than the record-shattering 2023, the United Nations warned Friday, as it urged drastic emissions cuts to combat climate change. The UN's World Meteorological Organization said new monthly temperature records were set every month between June and December, and the pattern is likely to continue due to the warming El Nino weather phenomenon. The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicted there is a one in three chance that 2024 will be warmer than 2023 -- and a 99 percent certainty that 2024 will rank among the five warmest years ever. NASA climatologist Gavin Schmidt, director of the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies, estimated the odds were even higher. "I put it at about 50-50: 50 percent chance it'll be warmer, 50 percent chance it will be slightly cooler," he told AFP, adding there were hints of "mysterious" changes to Earth's climate systems, that would nonetheless require more data to confirm or refute. The UN's WMO weather and climate agency said July and August last year were the two hottest months ever recorded, as it officially confirmed 2023 had been the warmest year on record "by a huge margin". Watch | El nino and export restrictions threaten supply chains into 2024 | World Business Watch × The WMO said the 2023 annual average global temperature was 1.45 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels (1850-1900). The 2015 Paris climate accords aimed to limit global warming to well below two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels -- and 1.5C if possible. The WMO's new secretary-general Celeste Saulo warned that El Nino, which emerged mid-2023, is likely to turn up the heat even further in 2024. The naturally-occurring climate pattern, typically associated with increased heat worldwide, usually increases global temperatures in the year after it develops. "The shift from cooling La Nina to warming El Nino by the middle of 2023 is clearly reflected in the rise in temperature," she said. "Given that El Nino usually has the biggest impact on global temperatures after it peaks, 2024 could be even hotter." Humanity's 'biggest challenge' NOAA said the 2023 global surface temperature was 1.18C above the 20th-century average, and was hotter than the next warmest year, 2016, by a record-setting margin of 0.15C. The Arctic, northern North America, central Asia, the North Atlantic and the eastern tropical Pacific were particularly hotter, it said. Saulo said climate change was now "the biggest challenge that humanity faces". Also Read | Earthquake alters Japan coastline stretching it by around 820 feet A WMO report in November found that concentrations of the three main heat-trapping greenhouse gases -- carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide -- reached record high levels in 2022, with preliminary data indicating that the levels continued to grow in 2023. "Climate change is escalating -- and this is unequivocally because of human activities," said Saulo. 'Catastrophic future' awaits UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said humanity's actions were "scorching the Earth". "2023 was a mere preview of the catastrophic future that awaits if we don't act now," he said. The WMO said that since the 1980s, each decade has been warmer than the previous one -- while the warmest nine years on record had all been since 2015. Also Read | Archaeologists uncover lost cities which existed 2,000 years ago in Ecuadorian Amazon The EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service issued its 2023 temperature findings on Tuesday, while NOAA and NASA released theirs simultaneously with the WMO on Friday. The WMO consolidates figures from six major international datasets to provide an authoritative temperature assessment. It said the 10-year average temperature from 2014 to 2023 was 1.20C above the pre-industrial average. Even if Earth's average surface temperature breaches the 1.5C mark in 2024, it does not mean the world has failed to meet the Paris Agreement target of capping global warming under that threshold. That would occur only after several successive years above the 1.5C benchmark, and even then the 2015 treaty allows for the possibility of reducing Earth's temperature after a period of "overshoot".

El Nino could make 2024 hotter than record 2023

Taiwan heads to the polls on Saturday to choose its next leader in a high-stakes presidential election. President Tsai Ing-wen is ineligible to seek re-election after serving two straight terms.

Taiwan Elections 2024: Taiwanese head to ballot booths to pick a new president

Makar Sankranti is one of the most auspicious Hindu festivals in India. The ancient Indian festival, which is celebrated to mark the beginning of the harvesting season in India, is probably the only festival that is celebrated in every region of India, on the same day, but in different manners and names.

Makar Sankranti: Here's how Makar Sankranti is celebrated in different Indian states

US & Britain unleash typhoons, tomahawks & nuclear submarine on Houthis in Yemen Myanmar rebels capture a key military headquarters town along the Chinese border Ecuador erupts in violence as drug cartels take 178 prison guards & staff members, hostage, & Papua New Guinea declares a state of emergency as 15 get killed in riots Mohammed Saleh gets you an in-depth analysis of the world's biggest warzones of the week in #Worldatwar

US & Britain unleash typhoons, Tomahawks & nuclear submarine on Houthis in Yemen

<p>Cape Verde has achieved a decisive victory against malaria by&nbsp;becoming the third African Nation to rid itself of the disease. This is a substantial victory especially given that the mosquito-borne disease continues to kill hundreds of thousands of people on the continent, said the World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday.</p>

<h2><strong>Malaria-Free nations</strong></h2>

<p>Worldwide, only 43 nations have been certified as malaria-free by the WHO. For this certification, a nation needs to prove that the domestic chain of transmission has been broken for at least three consecutive years, reports AFP.</p>

<p>On the African continent, before Cape Verde, Mauritius in 1973 and Algeria in 2019, were declared malaria-free.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-defensive-action-against-houthis-in-yemen-earns-him-democratic-ire-and-trolling-on-x-679415">Biden's 'defensive action' against Houthis in Yemen earns him Democratic ire and trolling on X</a></strong></p>

<p>Acknowledging the achievement of the Atlantic archipelago of about 500,000 inhabitants, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said: "I salute the government and people of Cabo Verde for their unwavering commitment and resilience in their journey to eliminating malaria."</p>

<p>"WHO's certification of Cabo Verde being malaria-free is testament to the power of strategic public health planning, collaboration, and sustained effort to protect and promote health," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Climate change effects on spread of malaria</strong></p>

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<p>The WHO Regional Director for Africa Matshidiso Moeti also expressed happiness and said, "Cabo Verde's achievement is a beacon of hope for the African Region and beyond. It demonstrates that with strong political will, effective policies, community engagement and multi-sectoral collaboration, malaria elimination is an achievable goal."</p>

<p>Stressing the advantages this certification will have for Cape Verde, WHO said that it "has the potential to attract more visitors and boost socio-economic activities in a country where tourism accounts for approximately 25 per cent of GDP."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-men-continue-to-disappoint-their-wives-most-women-say-husbands-dont-do-enough-around-home-679350">Japanese men continue to disappoint their wives; most women say husbands don't do 'enough' around home</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Malaria</strong></h2>

<p>As per WHO estimates, in 2022, malaria killed 608,000 people worldwide and infected 250 million.</p>

<p>The disease, as per AFP, is particularly present in Africa. In 2021, the nation accounted for 95 per cent of deaths and 94 per cent of contaminations. Furthermore, on the continent, children under five represented 80 per cent of the deaths.</p>

<p>Cape Verde went through its last malaria peak in the late 1980s. Since then, it has been confined to two islands: Santiago and Boa Vista. Both the islands have now been malaria-free since 2017.</p>

<p>In 2007, eliminating malaria became a national objective for Cape Verde, and subsequently, it came up with a strategic malaria plan from 2009 to 2013.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Cape Verde has achieved a decisive victory against malaria by becoming the third African Nation to rid itself of the disease. This is a substantial victory especially given that the mosquito-borne disease continues to kill hundreds of thousands of people on the continent, said the World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday.

Cape Verde has achieved a decisive victory against malaria by becoming the third African Nation to rid itself of the disease. This is a substantial victory especially given that the mosquito-borne disease continues to kill hundreds of thousands of people on the continent, said the World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday. Malaria-Free nations Worldwide, only 43 nations have been certified as malaria-free by the WHO. For this certification, a nation needs to prove that the domestic chain of transmission has been broken for at least three consecutive years, reports AFP. On the African continent, before Cape Verde, Mauritius in 1973 and Algeria in 2019, were declared malaria-free. Also read | Biden's 'defensive action' against Houthis in Yemen earns him Democratic ire and trolling on X Acknowledging the achievement of the Atlantic archipelago of about 500,000 inhabitants, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said: "I salute the government and people of Cabo Verde for their unwavering commitment and resilience in their journey to eliminating malaria." "WHO's certification of Cabo Verde being malaria-free is testament to the power of strategic public health planning, collaboration, and sustained effort to protect and promote health," he added. Watch | Climate change effects on spread of malaria × The WHO Regional Director for Africa Matshidiso Moeti also expressed happiness and said, "Cabo Verde's achievement is a beacon of hope for the African Region and beyond. It demonstrates that with strong political will, effective policies, community engagement and multi-sectoral collaboration, malaria elimination is an achievable goal." Stressing the advantages this certification will have for Cape Verde, WHO said that it "has the potential to attract more visitors and boost socio-economic activities in a country where tourism accounts for approximately 25 per cent of GDP." Also read | Japanese men continue to disappoint their wives; most women say husbands don't do 'enough' around home Malaria As per WHO estimates, in 2022, malaria killed 608,000 people worldwide and infected 250 million. The disease, as per AFP, is particularly present in Africa. In 2021, the nation accounted for 95 per cent of deaths and 94 per cent of contaminations. Furthermore, on the continent, children under five represented 80 per cent of the deaths. Cape Verde went through its last malaria peak in the late 1980s. Since then, it has been confined to two islands: Santiago and Boa Vista. Both the islands have now been malaria-free since 2017. In 2007, eliminating malaria became a national objective for Cape Verde, and subsequently, it came up with a strategic malaria plan from 2009 to 2013. (With inputs from agencies)

Cape Verde becomes third African nation to be declared malaria-free

The India-Maldives row has dominated headlines this past week. But is this just an isolated incident or is there a broader shift in the Maldives' attitude towards India?

India-Maldives row: what it's cost Male

Mauritius foreign minister Maneesh Gobin has termed Ram temple consecration ceremony as "international global event" and a "Diwali". Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal exclusively from Mauritius, he said, "Since December it has started and nowadays it is like a build up. Here we are calling it 2024, double Diwali, double Diwali meaning, one Diwali in January, and then another Diwali which is a regular Diwali". In response to a plea from the Mauritius Sanatan Dharma Temples Federation to Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, Mauritius has approved a 2-hour special break for public officials of Hindu faith to participate in prayer and observation during the Ram temple consecration ceremony on January 22. The foreign minister said PM Pravind Jugnauth will participate in the ceremonies locally. FM Maneesh also spoke about the anti India campaign in Maldives.

Ram temple consecration ceremony is international global event says Mauritius FM Maneesh Gobin

<p>A new airstrike hit the Yemeni Red Sea port city of Hodeida on Saturday (Jan 13), following two nights of attacks on the Iran-backed Houthi rebels. This comes amid heightened tensions in the region following recent strikes by US and British forces on Houthi military sites.</p>

<h2><strong>Targeted strike on Houthi rocket launch site</strong></h2>

<p>A military source allied with the rebels, as reported by AFP,&nbsp;said&nbsp;that the strike targeted the site from which a Houthi rocket was launched on the outskirts of Hodeida.</p>

<p>The origin of the strike, whether from the sea or the air, remained unclear.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ongoing conflict in the region has escalated with increased violence involving Iran-aligned groups in Yemen, Lebanon, Iraq, and Syria. The recent events, triggered by the war between the Palestinian group Hamas and Israel, have drawn in various actors, adding to the complexity of the situation.</p>

<p>The Houthi rebels, expressing solidarity with Gaza, have intensified their missile and drone attacks on what they claim to be Israeli-linked shipping routes in the Red Sea.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Yemen's Houthis fired anti-ship missile after strikes: US</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Strategic importance of Red Sea route</strong></h2>

<p>The Red Sea international trade route, particularly the Bab al-Mandeb Strait between southwest Yemen and Djibouti, is of significant global importance, facilitating around 12 per cent of global trade. However, recent Houthi attacks on shipping in the region have disrupted trade flows, contributing to concerns about rising global inflation amid existing supply chain strains.</p>

<p>Despite the strikes by US and British forces, which aimed to "de-escalate tensions," the Houthi rebels have vowed to continue their attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the situation unfolds, UN chief Antonio Guterres's special envoy for Yemen has called on all involved parties to avoid actions jeopardising maritime trade and fueling regional tensions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The strikes and heightened tensions in the region have broader implications for global economic and security dynamics. Oil prices experienced fluctuations, rising initially due to fears of escalation before stabilising.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-red-sea-but-a-sea-of-blood-erdogan-lashes-out-at-us-uk-air-strikes-in-yemen-679562">Also read |&nbsp;Turning Red Sea into 'sea of blood': Erdogan lashes out at US, UK air strikes in Yemen</a></p>

<p>Shipping companies, including Denmark's Torm, have halted transit through the Red Sea, reflecting concerns about the security risks in the strategic waterway. Regional leaders, including Saudi Arabia, have called for self-restraint and avoiding further escalation.</p>

<p>In response to the airstrikes, hundreds of thousands of people, some armed with Kalashnikov assault rifles, gathered in Yemen's capital Sanaa to protest. Anti-American and anti-Israeli sentiments were voiced during the demonstration, reflecting the complex political landscape in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A new airstrike hit the Yemeni Red Sea port city of Hodeida on Saturday (Jan 13), following two nights of attacks on the Iran-backed Houthi rebels. This comes amid heightened tensions in the region following recent strikes by US and British forces on Houthi military sites.

A new airstrike hit the Yemeni Red Sea port city of Hodeida on Saturday (Jan 13), following two nights of attacks on the Iran-backed Houthi rebels. This comes amid heightened tensions in the region following recent strikes by US and British forces on Houthi military sites. Targeted strike on Houthi rocket launch site A military source allied with the rebels, as reported by AFP, said that the strike targeted the site from which a Houthi rocket was launched on the outskirts of Hodeida. The origin of the strike, whether from the sea or the air, remained unclear. The ongoing conflict in the region has escalated with increased violence involving Iran-aligned groups in Yemen, Lebanon, Iraq, and Syria. The recent events, triggered by the war between the Palestinian group Hamas and Israel, have drawn in various actors, adding to the complexity of the situation. The Houthi rebels, expressing solidarity with Gaza, have intensified their missile and drone attacks on what they claim to be Israeli-linked shipping routes in the Red Sea. Also watch | Yemen's Houthis fired anti-ship missile after strikes: US Strategic importance of Red Sea route The Red Sea international trade route, particularly the Bab al-Mandeb Strait between southwest Yemen and Djibouti, is of significant global importance, facilitating around 12 per cent of global trade. However, recent Houthi attacks on shipping in the region have disrupted trade flows, contributing to concerns about rising global inflation amid existing supply chain strains. Despite the strikes by US and British forces, which aimed to "de-escalate tensions," the Houthi rebels have vowed to continue their attacks. As the situation unfolds, UN chief Antonio Guterres's special envoy for Yemen has called on all involved parties to avoid actions jeopardising maritime trade and fueling regional tensions. The strikes and heightened tensions in the region have broader implications for global economic and security dynamics. Oil prices experienced fluctuations, rising initially due to fears of escalation before stabilising. Also read | Turning Red Sea into 'sea of blood': Erdogan lashes out at US, UK air strikes in Yemen Shipping companies, including Denmark's Torm, have halted transit through the Red Sea, reflecting concerns about the security risks in the strategic waterway. Regional leaders, including Saudi Arabia, have called for self-restraint and avoiding further escalation. In response to the airstrikes, hundreds of thousands of people, some armed with Kalashnikov assault rifles, gathered in Yemen's capital Sanaa to protest. Anti-American and anti-Israeli sentiments were voiced during the demonstration, reflecting the complex political landscape in the region. (With inputs from agencies)

Fresh airstrikes target Yemen’s Houthis amid escalating Red Sea tensions

New Zealand's former prime minister Jacinda Ardern has married her long-term partner Clarke Gayford in a small private ceremony in North Island.

Jacinda Ardern marries partner Clarke Gayford in private ceremony

Mauritius Minister Dr. Anjiv Ramdhany has compared the Ram temple consecration ceremony to Diwali, highlighting the government's plan to install projectors to enable everyone in the country to witness the live broadcast of the ceremony on January 22. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Mauritius, he said, " This historic event provides us with an opportunity to come together, transcending political, religious and cultural divides". In Mauritius, Hinduism is a major religion, representing about 48.5% of the population according to 2011 statistics. Notably, Mauritius is the sole African country where Hinduism takes precedence, ranking third globally in terms of prevalence after Nepal and India. The Minister of Public Service, Administrative and Institutional Reforms, Dr Anjiv Ramdhany explained, that Prime Minister pravind kumar jugnauth will also take part in local celebrations when it comes to the inauguration ceremony of the temple. He said, "this small inauguration is a lifetime event for us and it's a big thing for India."

Mauritius Minister speaks on Ram Mandir consecration ceremony and more

<p data-testid="paragraph-0">A mudslide brought on by heavy rains in northwest Colombia killed at least 23 people and injured dozens on a busy highway, authorities said on Saturday.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-1">The mudslide, which happened Friday afternoon, covered a roadway that connects the cities of Quibdo and Medellin in the Pacific province of Choco.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-2">At least 35 people were injured and an unknown number of people are still missing as mud completely engulfed several cars on the road, authorities said.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3">"The extraction of bodies continues," the governor of Choco said in a statement shared on social media.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-4">Images on social media showed the moment a large piece of land dislodged from a mountain and fell on top of several cars that were moving along the flooded road below.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-5">The road has been closed by Colombia's National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD).</p>


A mudslide brought on by heavy rains in northwest Colombia killed at least 23 people and injured dozens on a busy highway, authorities said on Saturday. The mudslide, which happened Friday afternoon, covered a roadway that connects the cities of Quibdo and Medellin in the Pacific province of Choco.

A mudslide brought on by heavy rains in northwest Colombia killed at least 23 people and injured dozens on a busy highway, authorities said on Saturday. The mudslide, which happened Friday afternoon, covered a roadway that connects the cities of Quibdo and Medellin in the Pacific province of Choco. At least 35 people were injured and an unknown number of people are still missing as mud completely engulfed several cars on the road, authorities said. "The extraction of bodies continues," the governor of Choco said in a statement shared on social media. Images on social media showed the moment a large piece of land dislodged from a mountain and fell on top of several cars that were moving along the flooded road below. The road has been closed by Colombia's National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD).

Colombia: Death toll rises to 23 following mudslide on highway

The body of former model Divya Pahuja, who was shot dead in a Gurgaon hotel last week, has been found in a Haryana canal. Police said that the body had been thrown in Bhakra canal in Punjab and had drifted to the neighbouring state.

Divya Pahuja murder case: Haryana police recover ex-model's body from canal

Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China, held its general election on Saturday (Jan 13). The ruling Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te won the election after candidates of opposition parties- Hou Yu-ih of the Kuomintang (KMT) and Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People's Party (TPP) conceded defeat.

Taiwan elections: Lai Ching-te wins presidential vote, vows to defend island from China threats

2023 has been a year of extreme weather conditions. Climate change & El Nino led to soaring temperatures in 2024. Earth's temperature crossed critical threshold in 2023. With wildfires in Canada, Horn of Africa & Middle East to summer heat waves in US & China. Watch to know more!

Scientists warn 2024 could rank among five hottest years

Fears of a regional war linger, with more countries now being involved in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. US has carried out additional strikes on Houthi-linked targets in Yemen. Earlier on Friday, US and British forces targeted nearly 30 sites with more than 150 munitions in Yemen in their first round of strikes.

US carries out more strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen

<p>The United States carried out fresh strikes against Yemen’s Houthi rebels, on Friday (Jan 12), said the&nbsp;US Central Command (CENTCOM)&nbsp;after President Joe Biden said that American forces would carry out new strikes if the Iran-backed group keeps attacking ships in the Red Sea.&nbsp;The new strikes were seemingly confirmed by the Houthi media which reported airstrikes in Yemen’s capital, Sanaa.</p>

<p>The latest strike targeted a radar site, US officials speaking on the condition of anonymity told Reuters. Radar infrastructure reportedly has been a key target in the US military effort to halt Houthi attacks in the Red Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Outrageous behaviour’</strong></h2>

<p>The new airstrikes come a day after the US and the United Kingdom together conducted strikes on the Iran-backed group’s facilities. The strikes, according to a statement by the CENTCOM were conducted at 3:45 am (Yemen time) and "designed to degrade the Houthi’s ability to attack maritime vessels, including commercial vessels."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-carries-out-more-strikes-on-houthi-targets-in-yemen-679504">US carries out more strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen</a></strong></p>

<p>“We will make sure we respond to the Huthis if they continue this outrageous behavior,” Biden told reporters on an election campaign in the US state of Pennsylvania, on Friday (Jan 12).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The strikes on Thursday (Jan 11) by the American and British forces, according to the Pentagon, reduced the Houthis’ capacity to launch fresh attacks. The US military said 60 targets in 28 sites were hit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Houthi-run television channel Al-Masirah news network reported multiple strikes in Sanaa. “The American-British enemy is targeting the capital, Sanaa, with a number of airstrikes,” said the Houthi-run media.</p>

<p>It added, “The American-British aggression targeted the Al-Dailami base in the capital, Sanaa.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by Reuters said witnesses confirmed explosions early on Friday (Yemen time) at military bases near airports in the capital Sanaa and Yemen’s third city Taiz, a naval base at Yemen’s main Red Sea port Hodeidah and military sites in the coastal Hajjah governorate.</p>

<p>The new strike also comes after the rebel group’s military on Friday (Jan 12) said that overnight air strikes carried out by the American and British forces had killed five of their fighters and injured six others, adding that the attacks would not go unpunished or unanswered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Houthis, which have controlled most of Yemen for nearly a decade, have also vowed to continue their attacks on regional shipping.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The strikes in Yemen by the US and UK forces sparked massive protests with tens of thousands of Yemenis taking to the streets across the country. “Your strikes on Yemen are terrorism,” said Mohammed Ali Al-Houthi, a member of the Houthi Supreme Political Council, referring to the United States.</p>

<h2><strong>Houthis accidentally attack ship carrying Russian oil: UK</strong></h2>

<p>The Iran-backed group accidentally targeted a tanker carrying Russian oil in a missile attack on Friday off Yemen, according to Ambrey.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-houthis-say-strikes-will-not-go-unpunished-or-unanswered-679470">Yemen's Houthis say strikes will not go 'unpunished or unanswered'</a></strong></p>

<p>“This was the second tanker mistakenly targeted by the Houthis whilst carrying Russian oil,” said the British maritime security firm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), issuing an advisory said it had received reports of a missile being fired 90 nautical miles southeast of Yemen’s port city of Aden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The master reported a missile landing in the water 400-500 metres away, and being followed by three small craft,” said the UKMTO.</p>

<h2><strong>UN chief warns against escalation</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on all sides “not to escalate” the volatile situation in the Red Sea, on Friday (Jan 12) after the US and UK launched strikes against Houthis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Iran-backed group in Yemen who say they are acting in solidarity with Gaza have attacked a number of ships in the Red Sea stoking fears of the Israel-Hamas war spreading regionwide.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-defensive-action-against-houthis-in-yemen-earns-him-democratic-ire-and-trolling-on-x-679415">Biden's 'defensive action' against Houthis in Yemen earns him Democratic ire and trolling on X</a></strong></p>

<p>“The Secretary-General further calls on all parties involved not to escalate even more the situation in the interest of peace and stability in the Red Sea and the wider region,” said UN chief’s spokesman Stephane Dujarric.</p>

<p>The Russian ambassador to the UN called the joint US-UK strikes against the Houthis a “blatant armed aggression against another country.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “These states all carried out a mass strike on Yemeni territory. I'm not talking about an attack on some group within the country but an attack on the people of the country on the whole. Aircraft were used, warships and submarines.”&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States carried out fresh strikes against Yemen’s Houthi rebels, on Friday (Jan 12), said the US Central Command (CENTCOM) after President Joe Biden said that American forces would carry out new strikes if the Iran-backed group keeps attacking ships in the Red Sea.

The United States carried out fresh strikes against Yemen’s Houthi rebels, on Friday (Jan 12), said the US Central Command (CENTCOM) after President Joe Biden said that American forces would carry out new strikes if the Iran-backed group keeps attacking ships in the Red Sea. The new strikes were seemingly confirmed by the Houthi media which reported airstrikes in Yemen’s capital, Sanaa. The latest strike targeted a radar site, US officials speaking on the condition of anonymity told Reuters. Radar infrastructure reportedly has been a key target in the US military effort to halt Houthi attacks in the Red Sea. ‘Outrageous behaviour’ The new airstrikes come a day after the US and the United Kingdom together conducted strikes on the Iran-backed group’s facilities. The strikes, according to a statement by the CENTCOM were conducted at 3:45 am (Yemen time) and "designed to degrade the Houthi’s ability to attack maritime vessels, including commercial vessels." ALSO WATCH | US carries out more strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen “We will make sure we respond to the Huthis if they continue this outrageous behavior,” Biden told reporters on an election campaign in the US state of Pennsylvania, on Friday (Jan 12). The strikes on Thursday (Jan 11) by the American and British forces, according to the Pentagon, reduced the Houthis’ capacity to launch fresh attacks. The US military said 60 targets in 28 sites were hit. Houthi-run television channel Al-Masirah news network reported multiple strikes in Sanaa. “The American-British enemy is targeting the capital, Sanaa, with a number of airstrikes,” said the Houthi-run media. It added, “The American-British aggression targeted the Al-Dailami base in the capital, Sanaa.” A report by Reuters said witnesses confirmed explosions early on Friday (Yemen time) at military bases near airports in the capital Sanaa and Yemen’s third city Taiz, a naval base at Yemen’s main Red Sea port Hodeidah and military sites in the coastal Hajjah governorate. The new strike also comes after the rebel group’s military on Friday (Jan 12) said that overnight air strikes carried out by the American and British forces had killed five of their fighters and injured six others, adding that the attacks would not go unpunished or unanswered. The Houthis, which have controlled most of Yemen for nearly a decade, have also vowed to continue their attacks on regional shipping. The strikes in Yemen by the US and UK forces sparked massive protests with tens of thousands of Yemenis taking to the streets across the country. “Your strikes on Yemen are terrorism,” said Mohammed Ali Al-Houthi, a member of the Houthi Supreme Political Council, referring to the United States. Houthis accidentally attack ship carrying Russian oil: UK The Iran-backed group accidentally targeted a tanker carrying Russian oil in a missile attack on Friday off Yemen, according to Ambrey. ALSO READ | Yemen's Houthis say strikes will not go 'unpunished or unanswered' “This was the second tanker mistakenly targeted by the Houthis whilst carrying Russian oil,” said the British maritime security firm. Meanwhile, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), issuing an advisory said it had received reports of a missile being fired 90 nautical miles southeast of Yemen’s port city of Aden. “The master reported a missile landing in the water 400-500 metres away, and being followed by three small craft,” said the UKMTO. UN chief warns against escalation United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on all sides “not to escalate” the volatile situation in the Red Sea, on Friday (Jan 12) after the US and UK launched strikes against Houthis. The Iran-backed group in Yemen who say they are acting in solidarity with Gaza have attacked a number of ships in the Red Sea stoking fears of the Israel-Hamas war spreading regionwide. ALSO READ | Biden's 'defensive action' against Houthis in Yemen earns him Democratic ire and trolling on X “The Secretary-General further calls on all parties involved not to escalate even more the situation in the interest of peace and stability in the Red Sea and the wider region,” said UN chief’s spokesman Stephane Dujarric. The Russian ambassador to the UN called the joint US-UK strikes against the Houthis a “blatant armed aggression against another country.” He added, “These states all carried out a mass strike on Yemeni territory. I'm not talking about an attack on some group within the country but an attack on the people of the country on the whole. Aircraft were used, warships and submarines.” (With inputs from agencies)

US carries out new strikes in Yemen after Biden vows to protect shipping in Red Sea

Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te is set to be the next president of Taiwan after he won Saturday's (Jan 13) election, defeating Hou Yu-ih of the Kuomintang (KMT) and Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People's Party (TPP) by a huge margin. In his victory speech, Lai, 64, said that Taiwan would stand by the side of democracy.

Taiwan elections 2024: Lai Ching-Te wins 3rd straight Taiwan presidential poll for ruling DPP

In pics | US-UK strikes against Houthis spark massive protests across Yemen

<p>Former US president Donald Trump on Friday (January 12) was ordered to pay about USD 400,000 in legal costs to The New York Times following the dismissal of a lawsuit he filed against them. The former president accused three journalists of engaging in an "insidious plot" to obtain his tax documents for an investigative report published in 2018.</p>

<p>Trump had gone to court against The New York Times in September 2021. The 2018 investigative report went on to win the Pulitzer Prize.</p>

<p>The case against New York Times was dismissed in May 2023. The judge in the commercial division of the New York state Supreme Court ordered Trump pay the defendants the legal costs. The decision was issued on Friday.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | US: Donald Trump's New York Civil fraud trial wraps up, judge asks lawyers to 'control your client'</strong></p>

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<p>The judge, in their decision, said that the estimate of USD 392,638 in legal fees made by The New York Times was "reasonable". The judge ordered Trump to reimburse them in full.</p>

<p>The NYT investigative report had&nbsp;described how Trump, a real estate tycoon from before his time in US presidential office, received equivalent of USD 413 million, adjusted for inflation, from his father. This revelation is contrary to Trump's boasts for decades that he built his own business empire. The New York Times Report said that the massive wealth was transferred to Donald Trump through a shell company to&nbsp;avoid taxation.</p>

<h2><strong>Legal troubles of the former US prez</strong></h2>

<p>Trump is currently wading through a barrage of legal troubles that involve charges related to civil fraud, election interference, sexual assault and even alleged hush money payment to an adult movies star.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-presidential-election-2024-trump-not-to-be-removed-from-oregon-ballot-for-now-says-states-supreme-court-679685">US presidential election 2024: Trump not to be removed from Oregon ballot, for now, says state's supreme court</a></strong></p>

<p>Trump has many firsts to his name but there is nothing boast about it. While in office, he became first-ever US president to be impeached twice. During his presidency, his supporters attacked US Capitol in January 2021. This was first attack on the iconic building since the last one which took place when the US was a British colony.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-mocks-biden-with-white-house-senior-living-campaign-video-679457">Donald Trump mocks Biden with 'White House Senior Living' campaign video</a></strong></p>

<p>After he left office, he became the first sitting or former US president to be charged, indicted, arrested. He became first such president to appear as a defendant in court and first current/former president to be taken a mugshot of.</p>

<p>But all this has not diminished his popularity among Republican voters and he leads the pack of Republican party hopefuls who are vying for party nomination to contest US Presidential Election 2024.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former US president Donald Trump on Friday (January 12) was ordered to pay about USD 400,000 in legal costs to The New York Times following the dismissal of a lawsuit he filed against them.

Former US president Donald Trump on Friday (January 12) was ordered to pay about USD 400,000 in legal costs to The New York Times following the dismissal of a lawsuit he filed against them. The former president accused three journalists of engaging in an "insidious plot" to obtain his tax documents for an investigative report published in 2018. Trump had gone to court against The New York Times in September 2021. The 2018 investigative report went on to win the Pulitzer Prize. The case against New York Times was dismissed in May 2023. The judge in the commercial division of the New York state Supreme Court ordered Trump pay the defendants the legal costs. The decision was issued on Friday. Watch | US: Donald Trump's New York Civil fraud trial wraps up, judge asks lawyers to 'control your client' × The judge, in their decision, said that the estimate of USD 392,638 in legal fees made by The New York Times was "reasonable". The judge ordered Trump to reimburse them in full. The NYT investigative report had described how Trump, a real estate tycoon from before his time in US presidential office, received equivalent of USD 413 million, adjusted for inflation, from his father. This revelation is contrary to Trump's boasts for decades that he built his own business empire. The New York Times Report said that the massive wealth was transferred to Donald Trump through a shell company to avoid taxation. Legal troubles of the former US prez Trump is currently wading through a barrage of legal troubles that involve charges related to civil fraud, election interference, sexual assault and even alleged hush money payment to an adult movies star. Also Read | US presidential election 2024: Trump not to be removed from Oregon ballot, for now, says state's supreme court Trump has many firsts to his name but there is nothing boast about it. While in office, he became first-ever US president to be impeached twice. During his presidency, his supporters attacked US Capitol in January 2021. This was first attack on the iconic building since the last one which took place when the US was a British colony. Also Read | Donald Trump mocks Biden with 'White House Senior Living' campaign video After he left office, he became the first sitting or former US president to be charged, indicted, arrested. He became first such president to appear as a defendant in court and first current/former president to be taken a mugshot of. But all this has not diminished his popularity among Republican voters and he leads the pack of Republican party hopefuls who are vying for party nomination to contest US Presidential Election 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

Judge orders former US president Trump to pay USD 400,000 to New York Times

Two U.S. Navy sailors went missing Thursday off the coast of Somalia, U.S. Central Command said in a statement Friday.

2 US Navy sailors go missing off Somalia coast, search underway

As Denmark's Queen Margrethe II abdicates the throne and makes way for the new monarch and her son Crown Prince Frederik is set to take over the reins, the country will also be getting a new queen in Frederik's wife, Crown Princess Mary. Watch to get more insights!

Denmark: Royal troops rehearse ahead of Crown Prince Frederik's royal succession ceremony

Taiwan's Race to Power: Polling to elect the next President and the running mate began on Saturday in Taiwan. Taiwanese voters will be choosing a successor to Tsai Ing-wen, the nation's first female president, who cannot seek re-election due to term limits after winning in 2016 and 2020. Lai Ching-Te held almost every senior political post in the Island. Lai hopes to round out his career track today. The Democratic Progressive Party candidate set to win Presidential Polls?

Explained: Lai Ching-Te's political track | DDP candidate set to win polls? | Taiwan Election

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