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The police have named a 16-year-old boy – Harry Pitman – who was stabbed to death in north London on New Year's Eve. The police officers were called to the site where the stabbing took place at around 23:40 GMT on Sunday (Dec 31) in Primrose Hill, Camden. 
 
Metropolitan Police said that first aid was given to Pitman, however, he was declared dead shortly before midnight. The police arrested a 16-year-old boy at the scene on suspicion of murder and took him into custody. 
 
The police force said that the area was filled with people watching fireworks when the stabbing took place and appealed to witnesses to reach out to them. The park is not London's official viewing area for New Year fireworks, however, people gather there to watch them.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flooded-tunnel-near-london-disrupts-eurostar-train-services-675095">Flooded tunnels near London disrupt Eurostar train services, thousands of passengers stranded</a>

Det Ch Insp Geoff Grogan, who is heading the investigation, said: "My thoughts and sympathies are with Harry's family and friends at this difficult time. He was a young man with the rest of his life ahead of him.” 
 
"His family are understandably devastated and specially trained officers are supporting them as they come to terms with their loss. We know Harry was with a group of friends near the viewing platform on Primrose Hill where they had gathered to celebrate the New Year,” he added, BBC reported. 
 
"It is here where we believe Harry became involved in an altercation with devastating consequences. Primrose Hill was very busy at the time and I believe there are people who witnessed the incident who have not yet spoken to police,” Grogan said.

<h2 lang="en-US">Hundreds present near site of attack</h2>

A local woman said that there were "hundreds if not thousands" of people present at the site at the time of the attack. She added that it was "absolutely tragic and shocking" that a teenager could be murdered on his doorstep, adding: "It's not just a young people's party - there would have been families with young children there, too."

Watch:&nbsp;London: 14 Eurostar trains cancelled amid wind, rain and snow warnings

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"It would have been rammed. It's not just locals - people come from miles around,” she added. Meanwhile, others stated that they police looked out for revellers before permitting them to leave the park by forming queues which took a long time. 
 
Another local said that the incident was "tragic but inevitable" and added that he had made "hundreds" of complaints to police regarding the anti-social behaviour in the park. 
 
He added that the park has become a "party hotspot" with alcohol and drugs since the pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)

The police have named a 16-year-old boy – Harry Pitman – who was stabbed to death in north London on New Year's Eve. The police officers were called to the site where the stabbing took place at around 23:40 GMT on Sunday (Dec 31) in Primrose Hill, Camden.

The police have named a 16-year-old boy – Harry Pitman – who was stabbed to death in north London on New Year's Eve. The police officers were called to the site where the stabbing took place at around 23:40 GMT on Sunday (Dec 31) in Primrose Hill, Camden. Metropolitan Police said that first aid was given to Pitman, however, he was declared dead shortly before midnight. The police arrested a 16-year-old boy at the scene on suspicion of murder and took him into custody. The police force said that the area was filled with people watching fireworks when the stabbing took place and appealed to witnesses to reach out to them. The park is not London's official viewing area for New Year fireworks, however, people gather there to watch them. Also read: Flooded tunnels near London disrupt Eurostar train services, thousands of passengers stranded Det Ch Insp Geoff Grogan, who is heading the investigation, said: "My thoughts and sympathies are with Harry's family and friends at this difficult time. He was a young man with the rest of his life ahead of him.” "His family are understandably devastated and specially trained officers are supporting them as they come to terms with their loss. We know Harry was with a group of friends near the viewing platform on Primrose Hill where they had gathered to celebrate the New Year,” he added, BBC reported. "It is here where we believe Harry became involved in an altercation with devastating consequences. Primrose Hill was very busy at the time and I believe there are people who witnessed the incident who have not yet spoken to police,” Grogan said. Hundreds present near site of attack A local woman said that there were "hundreds if not thousands" of people present at the site at the time of the attack. She added that it was "absolutely tragic and shocking" that a teenager could be murdered on his doorstep, adding: "It's not just a young people's party - there would have been families with young children there, too." Watch: London: 14 Eurostar trains cancelled amid wind, rain and snow warnings "It would have been rammed. It's not just locals - people come from miles around,” she added. Meanwhile, others stated that they police looked out for revellers before permitting them to leave the park by forming queues which took a long time. Another local said that the incident was "tragic but inevitable" and added that he had made "hundreds" of complaints to police regarding the anti-social behaviour in the park. He added that the park has become a "party hotspot" with alcohol and drugs since the pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

UK Primrose Hill stabbing case: Police name 16-year-old Harry Pitman as victim

Former United States President Bill Clinton's name is&nbsp;set to be unsealed among the 200 who have been identified as&nbsp;the many 'John Does' in previously redacted documents which are connected to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as per ABC News.

As per a report published in Fox News, Clinton "is not the only big name expected to be released". According to reports, the names will be released as early as Tuesday (Jan 2). 
 
"There are more than 150 individuals identified only as John or Jane Does, but the legal masking is about to come off," the Fox report added. 
 
A federal judge in New York gave the orders last month for the unsealing of dozens of documents which name people who are related to the&nbsp;disgraced financier who reportedly committed suicide in a jail cell while awaiting trial.

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"The Manhattan federal judge ruled that there was no justification to continue to have documents sealed in a settled case involving an Epstein accuser. The documents are expected to be unredacted and released as early as tomorrow, and among those named: former President Bill Clinton. That’s according to ABC News,” the report said. 
 
On Sunday (Dec 31), ABC News said that Clinton will be named but "there is no indication the sealed records contain evidence of illegal conduct" by the former president.

According to ABC News, Clinton's name emerged more than 50 times in the redacted filings.

Watch:&nbsp;Mexico &amp; US agree to keep borders open | Crossings for Railway, bridge open

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<h2 lang="en-US">The lawsuit</h2>

 
In 2015, a lawsuit was filed by Epstein accuser Virginia Giuffre, alleging that&nbsp;when she was 17 years old, she was trafficked by Epstein and his one-time paramour, Ghislaine Maxwell.

Giuffre further accused the two of forcing her to have sex with Prince Andrew and several other prominent men. Prince Andrew refuted all the allegations, claiming he doesn't recall meeting Giuffre. A lawsuit filed by her against Prince Andrew was later settled.

Epstein, who had been convicted as a sex offender in Florida, died at the Metropolitan Correctional Centre in New York while waiting for a federal trial in a sex trafficking case in 2019.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former United States President Bill Clinton's name is set to be unsealed among the 200 who have been identified as the many 'John Does' in previously redacted documents which are connected to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as per ABC News.

Former United States President Bill Clinton's name is set to be unsealed among the 200 who have been identified as the many 'John Does' in previously redacted documents which are connected to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as per ABC News. As per a report published in Fox News, Clinton "is not the only big name expected to be released". According to reports, the names will be released as early as Tuesday (Jan 2). "There are more than 150 individuals identified only as John or Jane Does, but the legal masking is about to come off," the Fox report added. A federal judge in New York gave the orders last month for the unsealing of dozens of documents which name people who are related to the disgraced financier who reportedly committed suicide in a jail cell while awaiting trial. Also read: US border officials to process a record 300,000 migrants in December: Report "The Manhattan federal judge ruled that there was no justification to continue to have documents sealed in a settled case involving an Epstein accuser. The documents are expected to be unredacted and released as early as tomorrow, and among those named: former President Bill Clinton. That’s according to ABC News,” the report said. On Sunday (Dec 31), ABC News said that Clinton will be named but "there is no indication the sealed records contain evidence of illegal conduct" by the former president. According to ABC News, Clinton's name emerged more than 50 times in the redacted filings. Watch: Mexico & US agree to keep borders open | Crossings for Railway, bridge open The lawsuit In 2015, a lawsuit was filed by Epstein accuser Virginia Giuffre, alleging that when she was 17 years old, she was trafficked by Epstein and his one-time paramour, Ghislaine Maxwell. Giuffre further accused the two of forcing her to have sex with Prince Andrew and several other prominent men. Prince Andrew refuted all the allegations, claiming he doesn't recall meeting Giuffre. A lawsuit filed by her against Prince Andrew was later settled. Epstein, who had been convicted as a sex offender in Florida, died at the Metropolitan Correctional Centre in New York while waiting for a federal trial in a sex trafficking case in 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

Bill Clinton in list of 200 names linked to Jeffrey Epstein that will be released: Report

Harvard's first Black president, Claudine Gay, resigned after criticism regarding her response to anti-semitism on campus. Gay is the second Ivy League president to resign in the past month following the congressional testimony.

Harvard President Claudine Gay resigns amid rows over anti-semitism

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Red Sea Attacks: Up to three explosions reported near cargo ship in Bab-Al-Mandab Strait

A gunman broke into the Colorado Supreme Court building in the US on Tuesday (Jan 2), firing a pistol multiple times and starting a fire in a stairwell. The&nbsp;suspect&nbsp;has been identified as Brandon Olsen, 44, who was arrested a few hours later.&nbsp;

The incident transpired around 1:15 am according to the Colorado State Patrol (CSP). Olsen fled the scene of a car crash near the&nbsp;Ralph L. Carr Colorado Judicial Center and later shot through a window before entering the building.&nbsp;

Once inside, he forcefully retrieved the keys to other floors from an unarmed security guard. Police said Olsen pointed the pistol at the guard, took the keys and made his way to the seventh floor where he open-fired several shots.&nbsp;

The man was arrested around 3 am on charges of robbery, burglary and arson. The fire started by him&nbsp;in a stairwell was later extinguished by the Denver Fire Department.&nbsp;

After the fire, sprinklers on the seventh floor went off which left standing water in the building. Burnt documents were recovered and bullet damages were reported on the same floor as well, the police said in its report.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-news-donald-trump-barred-from-colorado-ballot-world-news-wion-671598">Watch |&nbsp;US News: Donald Trump barred from Colorado ballot | World News</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>Colorado justices&nbsp;and Trump</h2>

The incident comes in the backdrop of Colorado's justices receiving threats from the public ever since they barred former president Donald Trump from the presidential campaign.

The Colorado court last month, in a 4-3 ruling, used a rare&nbsp;constitutional provision that bars those from office who&nbsp;“engage&nbsp;in insurrection”.

Trump has been repeatedly accused of fanning the insurrection attempts in the aftermath of 2020 presidential election results.&nbsp;The Colorado Republican Party last week appealed the state&nbsp;Supreme Court's decision.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/michigan-supreme-court-rejects-attempt-to-ban-former-us-president-donald-trump-from-2024-ballot-674242">Also read |&nbsp;Colorado Republicans seek intervention by US Supreme Court in Donald Trump's 2024 ballot disqualification</a>

Contrary to earlier reports, the authorities cleared that Tuesday's incident appears unrelated to the Trump case.&nbsp;

“The CSP and DPD are treating this incident seriously, but at this time, it is believed that this is not associated with previous threats to the Colorado Supreme Court Justices,” the CSP said in a statement, referring to&nbsp;the&nbsp;Denver Police Department.

(With inputs from agencies)

A gunman broke into the Colorado Supreme Court building in the US on Tuesday (Jan 2), firing a pistol multiple times and starting a fire in a stairwell. The suspect has been identified as Brandon Olsen, 44, who was arrested a few hours later.

A gunman broke into the Colorado Supreme Court building in the US on Tuesday (Jan 2), firing a pistol multiple times and starting a fire in a stairwell. The suspect has been identified as Brandon Olsen, 44, who was arrested a few hours later. The incident transpired around 1:15 am according to the Colorado State Patrol (CSP). Olsen fled the scene of a car crash near the Ralph L. Carr Colorado Judicial Center and later shot through a window before entering the building. Once inside, he forcefully retrieved the keys to other floors from an unarmed security guard. Police said Olsen pointed the pistol at the guard, took the keys and made his way to the seventh floor where he open-fired several shots. The man was arrested around 3 am on charges of robbery, burglary and arson. The fire started by him in a stairwell was later extinguished by the Denver Fire Department. After the fire, sprinklers on the seventh floor went off which left standing water in the building. Burnt documents were recovered and bullet damages were reported on the same floor as well, the police said in its report. Watch | US News: Donald Trump barred from Colorado ballot | World News × Colorado justices and Trump The incident comes in the backdrop of Colorado's justices receiving threats from the public ever since they barred former president Donald Trump from the presidential campaign. The Colorado court last month, in a 4-3 ruling, used a rare constitutional provision that bars those from office who “engage in insurrection”. Trump has been repeatedly accused of fanning the insurrection attempts in the aftermath of 2020 presidential election results. The Colorado Republican Party last week appealed the state Supreme Court's decision. Also read | Colorado Republicans seek intervention by US Supreme Court in Donald Trump's 2024 ballot disqualification Contrary to earlier reports, the authorities cleared that Tuesday's incident appears unrelated to the Trump case. “The CSP and DPD are treating this incident seriously, but at this time, it is believed that this is not associated with previous threats to the Colorado Supreme Court Justices,” the CSP said in a statement, referring to the Denver Police Department. (With inputs from agencies)

Days after Trump verdict, gunman breaks into Colorado Supreme Court building

Israel assassinated Saleh Al-Arouri, Hamas's deputy leader, in a drone strike on Beirut. This incident has triggered protest in the West Bank. Lebanon's Hezbollah said that Arouri's killing “will not go unpunished” and claimed a strike on a group of soldiers in Israeli territory.

Killing of Hamas' Deputy Chief Al-Arouri sparks protest

Former US president Donald Trump on Tuesday filed an appeal against a ruling that would keep him off the presidential primary ballot in Maine.

Calling Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows a "biased decision maker", Trump's attorneys asked the Maine Superior Court to toss out the ruling. They alleged that the top election official, a Democrat, "acted in an arbitrary and capricious manner."

<h2>Two strikes against Trump</h2>

Last week, Maine became the second US state to bar Trump from appearing on the presidential primary ballot over his role in the January 6, 2021, assault on the US Capitol by his supporters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-a-weak-and-feeble-man-who-could-end-american-democracy-as-we-know-it-warn-his-former-staff-675547">Trump ‘a weak and feeble man’ who could ‘end American democracy as we know it,’ warn his former staffers</a>

Bellows in her decision said that the January 6 Capitol attack "occurred at the behest of, and with the knowledge and support of, the outgoing president."

"The US Constitution does not tolerate an assault on the foundations of our government and (the Maine law) requires me to act in response," she added, as quoted by AFP.

"Given the compressed timeframe, the novel constitutional questions involved, the importance of this case, and impending ballot preparation deadlines, I will suspend the effect of my decision until the Superior Court rules on any appeal, or the time to appeal …has expired," wrote Bellows&nbsp;in her decision.

Before Maine, the Colorado Supreme Court ruled that Trump, the frontrunner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, is ineligible to appear on the presidential primary ballot. The western state had invoked the 14th Amendment's "insurrection clause" which the state's supreme court said was violated by Trump.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-escapes-strike-three-california-skips-his-removal-from-presidential-primary-ballot-674740">California decides to keep Donald Trump on GOP presidential primary ballot</a>

Section Three of the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution bars anyone from holding public office if they engaged in "insurrection or rebellion" after once pledging to support and defend the Constitution.

Similar 14th Amendment challenges questioning Trump's eligibility have also been filed in other US states. Recently, California, Minnesota, and Michigan ruled that Trump should stay on the ballot in the states.

The Republican Party has already filed an&nbsp;appeal against&nbsp;the Colorado Supreme Court ruling in the US Supreme Court.&nbsp;Trump himself also plans to file an appeal with the nation's highest court.&nbsp;The Maine ruling is also expected to eventually make its way to the top court.

<h2>Americans favour Trump, finds poll</h2>

Even as Trump faces multiple bans over the Capitol riot, a Washington Post-University of Maryland poll has found that Republicans in the US are more sympathetic to his supporters who stormed the government office.

The poll found that Republicans are now less likely to believe that Jan 6 rioters were "mostly violent."

Furthermore, they are also less likely to believe Trump bears responsibility for the attack. They are also slightly less likely to view President Joe Biden's election win as legitimate — more than one-third or 36 per cent of Americans, do not accept his victory as legitimate.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former US president Donald Trump on Tuesday filed an appeal against a ruling that would keep him off the presidential primary ballot in Maine. Calling Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows a "biased decision maker", Trump's attorneys asked the Maine Superior Court to toss out the ruling.

Former US president Donald Trump on Tuesday filed an appeal against a ruling that would keep him off the presidential primary ballot in Maine. Calling Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows a "biased decision maker", Trump's attorneys asked the Maine Superior Court to toss out the ruling. They alleged that the top election official, a Democrat, "acted in an arbitrary and capricious manner." Two strikes against Trump Last week, Maine became the second US state to bar Trump from appearing on the presidential primary ballot over his role in the January 6, 2021, assault on the US Capitol by his supporters. Also read | Trump ‘a weak and feeble man’ who could ‘end American democracy as we know it,’ warn his former staffers Bellows in her decision said that the January 6 Capitol attack "occurred at the behest of, and with the knowledge and support of, the outgoing president." "The US Constitution does not tolerate an assault on the foundations of our government and (the Maine law) requires me to act in response," she added, as quoted by AFP. "Given the compressed timeframe, the novel constitutional questions involved, the importance of this case, and impending ballot preparation deadlines, I will suspend the effect of my decision until the Superior Court rules on any appeal, or the time to appeal …has expired," wrote Bellows in her decision. Before Maine, the Colorado Supreme Court ruled that Trump, the frontrunner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, is ineligible to appear on the presidential primary ballot. The western state had invoked the 14th Amendment's "insurrection clause" which the state's supreme court said was violated by Trump. Also read | California decides to keep Donald Trump on GOP presidential primary ballot Section Three of the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution bars anyone from holding public office if they engaged in "insurrection or rebellion" after once pledging to support and defend the Constitution. Similar 14th Amendment challenges questioning Trump's eligibility have also been filed in other US states. Recently, California, Minnesota, and Michigan ruled that Trump should stay on the ballot in the states. The Republican Party has already filed an appeal against the Colorado Supreme Court ruling in the US Supreme Court. Trump himself also plans to file an appeal with the nation's highest court. The Maine ruling is also expected to eventually make its way to the top court. Americans favour Trump, finds poll Even as Trump faces multiple bans over the Capitol riot, a Washington Post-University of Maryland poll has found that Republicans in the US are more sympathetic to his supporters who stormed the government office. The poll found that Republicans are now less likely to believe that Jan 6 rioters were "mostly violent." Furthermore, they are also less likely to believe Trump bears responsibility for the attack. They are also slightly less likely to view President Joe Biden's election win as legitimate — more than one-third or 36 per cent of Americans, do not accept his victory as legitimate. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump appeals Maine's 'biased' decision maker's presidential primary ballot ban

Three Chinese balloons flew across Taiwan island and near an air base on Tuesday (Jan 2), said the Taiwanese defence ministry. This is the first time it has reported&nbsp;the balloons as crossing the islands. Earlier, starting last month, it&nbsp;reported citing&nbsp;a spate of such balloons in the&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Strait.

China's potential to use spy balloons has become a global issue since February 2023 when a similar kind of device was shot down by the United States,&nbsp;claiming it&nbsp;to be a Chinese surveillance balloon. China had stated that the balloon was a civilian craft which had drifted astray accidentally.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-begins-preparing-ground-for-potential-arrest-warrant-against-xi-jinping-heres-how-675575">Taiwan begins preparing ground for joining ICC to deter China attack, initiate potential action against Xi</a>

Taiwan has remained on high alert for Chinese activities, both political and military, ahead of presidential and parliamentary elections which are set to be held on January 13. China claims&nbsp;the island as its own territory.&nbsp;

Since last month, Taiwan's defence ministry reported several instances of Chinese balloons spotted flying over the sensitive Taiwan Strait and crossing to the north of the island before vanishing.

<h2>Balloon used for weather monitoring?&nbsp;</h2>

On Wednesday (Jan 3), the ministry gave its daily update regarding Chinese military activities in the past 24 hours and added that it had spotted four balloons flying over the strait - amongst which three flew across the centre of the island.&nbsp;

It stated that the three balloons flew 105 nautical miles (194 km), 160 nautical miles and 159 nautical miles, respectively, towards the southwest of Ching Chuan Kang, which is an important location for Taiwan Air Force Base. Then, the balloons disappeared at different points, stated the ministry.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | A full-blown war in South China Sea in 2024? | Taiwan enters a 12-day crucial period

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The ministry, when questioned if the latest balloons were for weather or other purposes, refused to comment specifically.

It "closely monitors and appropriately responds" to balloons and gathers information about their path for "judgement and analysis," said the ministry. In the past four years, China has increased its military activity around Chinese and Taiwan fighter jets and warships which have now been regularly operating in the strait.

(With inputs from agencies)

Three Chinese balloons flew across Taiwan island and near an air base on Tuesday (Jan 2), said the Taiwanese defence ministry. This is the first time it has reported the balloons as crossing the islands.

Three Chinese balloons flew across Taiwan island and near an air base on Tuesday (Jan 2), said the Taiwanese defence ministry. This is the first time it has reported the balloons as crossing the islands. Earlier, starting last month, it reported citing a spate of such balloons in the Taiwan Strait. China's potential to use spy balloons has become a global issue since February 2023 when a similar kind of device was shot down by the United States, claiming it to be a Chinese surveillance balloon. China had stated that the balloon was a civilian craft which had drifted astray accidentally. Also read: Taiwan begins preparing ground for joining ICC to deter China attack, initiate potential action against Xi Taiwan has remained on high alert for Chinese activities, both political and military, ahead of presidential and parliamentary elections which are set to be held on January 13. China claims the island as its own territory. Since last month, Taiwan's defence ministry reported several instances of Chinese balloons spotted flying over the sensitive Taiwan Strait and crossing to the north of the island before vanishing. Balloon used for weather monitoring? On Wednesday (Jan 3), the ministry gave its daily update regarding Chinese military activities in the past 24 hours and added that it had spotted four balloons flying over the strait - amongst which three flew across the centre of the island. It stated that the three balloons flew 105 nautical miles (194 km), 160 nautical miles and 159 nautical miles, respectively, towards the southwest of Ching Chuan Kang, which is an important location for Taiwan Air Force Base. Then, the balloons disappeared at different points, stated the ministry. Watch: Gravitas | A full-blown war in South China Sea in 2024? | Taiwan enters a 12-day crucial period The ministry, when questioned if the latest balloons were for weather or other purposes, refused to comment specifically. It "closely monitors and appropriately responds" to balloons and gathers information about their path for "judgement and analysis," said the ministry. In the past four years, China has increased its military activity around Chinese and Taiwan fighter jets and warships which have now been regularly operating in the strait. (With inputs from agencies)

Three Chinese balloons fly across Taiwan island days ahead of polls

Tokyo Airport Fire: Probe underway into Japan plane collision

The Powerball ticket sold in Michigan is the fifth-largest jackpot of all time. First time the game has been won on New Year's day. Watch to know more!

US: $842 million Powerball ticket sold in Michigan, fifth-largest jackpot of all time

According to reports, an Israeli drone strike hit Beirut's southern suburb. The explosion shook Beirut's southern suburb of Musharafieh. UN urges 'maximum restraint' as Beirut blast kills Hamas leader.

Israel-Hamas War: At least 7 people killed in suspected Israeli strike in Beirut

In a financial rollercoaster of a year, 2023 witnessed unparalleled success for mega-cap tech companies. From Meta platforms' 188% surge to Tesla's market value doubling, the tech sector stole the spotlight. Despite these remarkable successes, some analysts are raising alarms, deeming these mega-cap stocks overvalued.

Mega-Cap giants Meta, Nvidia, & Tesla smash records in 2023

Turkey announced on Tuesday it had detained 33 people suspected of planning abductions and spying on behalf of Israel's Mossad intelligence service.

Turkey detains alleged Mossad spies accused of plotting attack, conduct raids in over 8 locations

Russian president Putin vows to scale up attacks against Ukraine. Russia blames Ukraine for attack in Belgorod. Watch to know more!

Ukraine attacka Russian territory on New Year, Putin vows to scale up attacks against Ukraine

The head of President Joe Biden's Council of Economic advisors said U.S. Consumer debt is just about returning to normal levels. Jared Bernstein said that pressures on U.S. Consumer spending, such as growing credit card delinquency rates, mostly suggest that Americans' debt is returning to pre-pandemic levels.

U.S. Consumer debt returning to normal levels?

Big news from the world of energy as Exxon Mobil, the U.S. Energy giant, officially says goodbye to its role in the West Qurna 1 oilfield in southern Iraq.

ExxonMobil handsover West Qurna 1 oil field to PetroChina

A man was found hidden in a commercial aircraft's landing gear compartment which flew into Paris from Algeria, said the French authorities. The&nbsp;unidentified man had suffered severe hypothermia but was luckily alive. 
 
The man, who was reported to be in his 20s, was discovered during technical checks by the officials after the Air Algerie flight – which had departed from Oran, Algeria – landed at Orly airport in Paris&nbsp;on Thursday (Dec 28), said prosecutors.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/france-human-trafficking-plane-what-has-happened-so-far-in-the-case-674439">France 'human trafficking' plane: What has happened so far in the case</a>

He was not carrying any identification proof, and was admitted to the hospital in serious condition, said the officials. As per an airport source, it was reported that the man “was alive but in a life-threatening condition because of severe hypothermia”.

<h2>Hiding in plane's landing gear a common practice</h2>

Commercial aircraft, after the take-off, cruise at 30,000 to 40,000ft altitude where there is a decline in temperatures by nearly -50 degrees Celsius (-58 Fahrenheit) and survival becomes unlikely due to lack of oxygen in the landing gear compartment which is neither pressurised nor heated. 
 
As per the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) data, between 1947 and 2021, 132 people – who were known as 'wheel-well stowaways' in the industry – tried to travel in the commercial aircraft's landing gear compartments. 
 
In April, a man's body was found in an aircraft's landing gear in Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport. The flight had earlier taken off from Nigeria and had landed in Toronto earlier, which was a stopover.

Watch: Nepal plane crash: Deadliest plane crash in 30 years, probe points to lack of technical training

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Four months before that, two passengers were found dead inside the landing gear storage space of a place which took off from Santiago de Chile and landed in Bogota. 
 
In July 2019, a man's frozen body fell into a garden in a London suburb which was reported to have been in Kenya Airways plane's landing gear compartment while the flight was approaching Heathrow airport. 
 
In 2015, a stowaway&nbsp;hiding in a British Airways flight from Johannesburg to Heathrow died and his body landed at a shop in Richmond, southwest London. However, the second person&nbsp;was able to endure and survive the 10-hour flight and was found hidden in the undercarriage of the plane. 
 
As per the FAA figures, the mortality rate of people who try to travel in this way is 77 per cent.

(With inputs from agencies)

A man was found hidden in a commercial aircraft's landing gear compartment which flew into Paris from Algeria, said the French authorities. The unidentified man had suffered severe hypothermia but was luckily alive.

A man was found hidden in a commercial aircraft's landing gear compartment which flew into Paris from Algeria, said the French authorities. The unidentified man had suffered severe hypothermia but was luckily alive. The man, who was reported to be in his 20s, was discovered during technical checks by the officials after the Air Algerie flight – which had departed from Oran, Algeria – landed at Orly airport in Paris on Thursday (Dec 28), said prosecutors. Also read: France 'human trafficking' plane: What has happened so far in the case He was not carrying any identification proof, and was admitted to the hospital in serious condition, said the officials. As per an airport source, it was reported that the man “was alive but in a life-threatening condition because of severe hypothermia”. Hiding in plane's landing gear a common practice Commercial aircraft, after the take-off, cruise at 30,000 to 40,000ft altitude where there is a decline in temperatures by nearly -50 degrees Celsius (-58 Fahrenheit) and survival becomes unlikely due to lack of oxygen in the landing gear compartment which is neither pressurised nor heated. As per the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) data, between 1947 and 2021, 132 people – who were known as 'wheel-well stowaways' in the industry – tried to travel in the commercial aircraft's landing gear compartments. In April, a man's body was found in an aircraft's landing gear in Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport. The flight had earlier taken off from Nigeria and had landed in Toronto earlier, which was a stopover. Watch: Nepal plane crash: Deadliest plane crash in 30 years, probe points to lack of technical training Four months before that, two passengers were found dead inside the landing gear storage space of a place which took off from Santiago de Chile and landed in Bogota. In July 2019, a man's frozen body fell into a garden in a London suburb which was reported to have been in Kenya Airways plane's landing gear compartment while the flight was approaching Heathrow airport. In 2015, a stowaway hiding in a British Airways flight from Johannesburg to Heathrow died and his body landed at a shop in Richmond, southwest London. However, the second person was able to endure and survive the 10-hour flight and was found hidden in the undercarriage of the plane. As per the FAA figures, the mortality rate of people who try to travel in this way is 77 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

Man found barely alive after enduring freezing temperature in plane's landing gear from Algeria to Paris

Hong Kong's flagship carrier Cathay Pacific Airways has announced cancellation of another 28 flights. This week the stated reason is pilots not turning up for the work.

Cathay Pacific cancels another 28 flights, blames it on crew illness | WION Newspoint

Brad Pitt's unfortunate Achilles' tendon injury occurred while portraying the legendary Greek hero Achilles in the 2004 epic Troy.

A sort of unexpected parallel between fiction and reality.

Going further into the past, the demise of martial arts icon Bruce Lee in 1973 coincided tragically with the production of Game of Death.&nbsp;

And now... yet again, in a sheer coincidence, the grounding of a 'donkey flight' in France carrying 303 Indian passengers took place on December 21, the same day when the Indian movie Dunki starring actors Shah Rukh Khan and Taapsee Pannu was released. The film deals with illegal migration.

This is one of those events that converged in their timings purely by chance. Much chatter has been ongoing about what are 'donkey flights' and what is the modus operandi behind them.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The movie Dunki showed a group of friends attempting to reach the United Kingdom through a 'donkey route' or, if one is to put it simply, a treacherous journey.

But they are not travelling on real donkeys, are they?&nbsp;

The use of donkey flights by undocumented immigrants can be traced back to an era when people&nbsp;relied on donkeys for travel, a practice considered unconventional in today's world of planes, trains, and automobiles.

However, it's crucial to understand that travelling on donkeys held a distinctive allure for many and endured through the centuries. This mode of transport was once a predominant method for navigating difficult terrains.

Here, 'difficult terrain' would mean places you can go easily through legal means.&nbsp;

Today, the term 'donkey flights,' with its humorous undertone, means employing illegal ways so that individuals can reach places where their legal entry is challenging.

This phenomenon, largely prevalent in India's northern state of Punjab, involves unscrupulous travel agencies exploiting the dreams of people to emigrate.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/flashback-friday-how-the-interplay-between-geopolitics-trade-triggered-the-1956-suez-crisis-674744">Flashback Friday: How the interplay between geopolitics &amp; trade triggered the 1956 Suez Crisis&nbsp;</a>

It often involves sham travel agents exploiting people financially. Some even go to the extent of selling all their assets to pay these agents to enter Western nations like the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.&nbsp;

In Dunki movie, the route was through Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, and Turkey while the Nicaragua-bound flight in the recent real incident originated from Dubai and did a stopover in France for refueling. Suspicious authorities blocked the plane's onward journey.&nbsp;

<h2>Origins of 'donkey flights'</h2>

The term "donkey flight" finds its roots in the native language of Punjabi where it means the act of hopping from place to place.

This illegal migration method has become synonymous with the exploitation of vulnerable individuals who, driven by the allure of international travel, fall prey to deceitful promises made by unscrupulous agencies.&nbsp;

Many desperate families invest funds, pinning their hopes on promised visas.&nbsp;

<h2>Modus Operandi of the conmen</h2>

The tactics employed by these conmen vary but often follow a similar pattern.

Migrants, usually unskilled labourers, employ "donkey flight" to enter the UK through other European Union countries.

The process involves migrants paying travel agents for visas to Schengen zone countries, which allow unrestricted travel among most European Union member states.

Subsequently, "consultants" in Schengen countries aid migrants in reaching the United Kingdom, which has separate visa restrictions.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nicaragua-flight-controversy-exposed-modus-operandi-prompts-indians-in-dubai-to-return-674593">Nicaragua flight controversy: EXPOSED modus operandi prompts nearly 600 Indians in Dubai to return</a>

The agents further provide forged documents, including residency permits and driving licenses, for those willing to pay.&nbsp;Some migrants enter the USA through these means.&nbsp;

<h2>Movies exploring 'donkey flights'&nbsp;</h2>

The prevalence of donkey flights has not gone unnoticed in popular media as well.

Several films have explored the stories of individuals attempting to reach their dream destinations through these illegal routes.&nbsp;

The 2017 film Comrade in America revolved around the protagonist's donkey flight to reach the United States while the 2022 Punjabi film Aaja Mexico Challiye depicted the protagonist's endeavour to reach the United States through a donkey route.&nbsp;

The recent grounding of the donkey flight in France, originating from Nicaragua and carrying 303 Indian passengers, raised eyebrows over alleged human trafficking suspicions.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-friction-between-netanyahu-and-defence-minister-gallant-674765">Israel-Hamas war: Friction between Netanyahu and Defence Minister Gallant</a>

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While the conventional legal route involves obtaining visas for education and work in countries like the US and UK, the 'donkey flight' method is chosen by those who cannot do so through legal or financial means.

Central American countries such as Mexico and Nicaragua are commonly perceived as the easy nations from where one can land in the US without much hassle.&nbsp;

According to a recent report presented during India's winter parliamentary session which cited US homeland security data, US authorities encountered over 200,000 illegal Indian immigrants in the past five years, with the highest number, 96,917 cases, reported in 2022-23.

(With inputs from agencies)

Brad Pitt's unfortunate Achilles' tendon injury occurred while portraying the legendary Greek hero Achilles in the 2004 epic Troy. A sort of unexpected parallel between fiction and reality.

Brad Pitt's unfortunate Achilles' tendon injury occurred while portraying the legendary Greek hero Achilles in the 2004 epic Troy. A sort of unexpected parallel between fiction and reality. Going further into the past, the demise of martial arts icon Bruce Lee in 1973 coincided tragically with the production of Game of Death. And now... yet again, in a sheer coincidence, the grounding of a 'donkey flight' in France carrying 303 Indian passengers took place on December 21, the same day when the Indian movie Dunki starring actors Shah Rukh Khan and Taapsee Pannu was released. The film deals with illegal migration. This is one of those events that converged in their timings purely by chance. Much chatter has been ongoing about what are 'donkey flights' and what is the modus operandi behind them. The movie Dunki showed a group of friends attempting to reach the United Kingdom through a 'donkey route' or, if one is to put it simply, a treacherous journey. But they are not travelling on real donkeys, are they? The use of donkey flights by undocumented immigrants can be traced back to an era when people relied on donkeys for travel, a practice considered unconventional in today's world of planes, trains, and automobiles. However, it's crucial to understand that travelling on donkeys held a distinctive allure for many and endured through the centuries. This mode of transport was once a predominant method for navigating difficult terrains. Here, 'difficult terrain' would mean places you can go easily through legal means. Today, the term 'donkey flights,' with its humorous undertone, means employing illegal ways so that individuals can reach places where their legal entry is challenging. This phenomenon, largely prevalent in India's northern state of Punjab, involves unscrupulous travel agencies exploiting the dreams of people to emigrate. Also Read | Flashback Friday: How the interplay between geopolitics & trade triggered the 1956 Suez Crisis It often involves sham travel agents exploiting people financially. Some even go to the extent of selling all their assets to pay these agents to enter Western nations like the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. In Dunki movie, the route was through Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, and Turkey while the Nicaragua-bound flight in the recent real incident originated from Dubai and did a stopover in France for refueling. Suspicious authorities blocked the plane's onward journey. Origins of 'donkey flights' The term "donkey flight" finds its roots in the native language of Punjabi where it means the act of hopping from place to place. This illegal migration method has become synonymous with the exploitation of vulnerable individuals who, driven by the allure of international travel, fall prey to deceitful promises made by unscrupulous agencies. Many desperate families invest funds, pinning their hopes on promised visas. Modus Operandi of the conmen The tactics employed by these conmen vary but often follow a similar pattern. Migrants, usually unskilled labourers, employ "donkey flight" to enter the UK through other European Union countries. The process involves migrants paying travel agents for visas to Schengen zone countries, which allow unrestricted travel among most European Union member states. Subsequently, "consultants" in Schengen countries aid migrants in reaching the United Kingdom, which has separate visa restrictions. Also Read | Nicaragua flight controversy: EXPOSED modus operandi prompts nearly 600 Indians in Dubai to return The agents further provide forged documents, including residency permits and driving licenses, for those willing to pay. Some migrants enter the USA through these means. Movies exploring 'donkey flights' The prevalence of donkey flights has not gone unnoticed in popular media as well. Several films have explored the stories of individuals attempting to reach their dream destinations through these illegal routes. The 2017 film Comrade in America revolved around the protagonist's donkey flight to reach the United States while the 2022 Punjabi film Aaja Mexico Challiye depicted the protagonist's endeavour to reach the United States through a donkey route. The recent grounding of the donkey flight in France, originating from Nicaragua and carrying 303 Indian passengers, raised eyebrows over alleged human trafficking suspicions. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Friction between Netanyahu and Defence Minister Gallant × While the conventional legal route involves obtaining visas for education and work in countries like the US and UK, the 'donkey flight' method is chosen by those who cannot do so through legal or financial means. Central American countries such as Mexico and Nicaragua are commonly perceived as the easy nations from where one can land in the US without much hassle. According to a recent report presented during India's winter parliamentary session which cited US homeland security data, US authorities encountered over 200,000 illegal Indian immigrants in the past five years, with the highest number, 96,917 cases, reported in 2022-23. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | 'Donkey flights': What it means and the modus operandi behind risky border crossings

Has Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu crumbled under pressure and agreed to a temporary ceasefire? Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has described the hostage deal to be a 'disaster', and has slammed the Netanyahu government for taking an amoral decision.

Israel Minister Ben Gvir says solution to Israel-Hamas conflict is Palestinian migration

In continuation to a slew of&nbsp;attacks in the Red Sea against the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war, another container ship that was heading to the Karachi Port from&nbsp;King Abdullah Port in Saudi Arabia was targeted on Tuesday (Dec 26), media reports said.

This comes amid a flurry of drone strikes by Iran-backed Houthi rebels and the counterstrikes by the US in the Red Sea.&nbsp;

The attack has been claimed by Yemen’s Houthi militia. No casualties have been reported on board the ship, as per reports&nbsp;citing a statement by the owner of the ship.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ships navigating in the Red Sea are frequently being targeted, which is triggering concerns regarding a spillover of the Gaza war.

According to the global shipping line Mediterranean Shipping Co, which was founded by Gianluigi Aponte in Italy in 1970, United VIII was attacked while it was transiting the Red Sea. United VIII was reportedly built in 2006. Presently, the ship is sailing under the flag of Liberia.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-qatars-emir-discuss-gaza-hostages-boosting-aid-white-house-673908">Biden, Qatar's Emir discuss Gaza hostages, boosting aid - White House</a>

"All crew are safe with no reported injuries and a thorough assessment of the vessel is being conducted," MSC said and added, “The vessel was en route from King Abdullah Port to Karachi.”

The company has assured that its top priority is to ensure the safety of the&nbsp;seafarers and that "MSC will continue to reroute vessels booked for Suez transit via the Cape of Good Hope”.

With the number of attacks in the Red Sea seeing a spike, the Cape of Good Hope route, on the Atlantic coast of the Cape Peninsula in South Africa, is being treated as an alternative by the shipping companies.&nbsp;

<h2>A nearby coalition task force notified&nbsp;</h2>

Reports by news agencies citing the MSC shipping company said that following the attack, the ship had sent a notification to a nearby coalition task force warship. Presently, the shipping company is engaged in carrying out ‘evasive manoeuvres’.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mv-chem-pluto-drone-attack-initial-investigation-of-debris-hints-at-iran-link-report-673892">MV Chem Pluto drone attack: Initial investigation of debris hints at Iran link, says report</a>

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cma-cgm-and-maersk-navigate-red-sea-challenges-673924">CMA CGM and Maersk navigate red sea challenges</a>

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Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree, who reportedly has a $5 million bounty on his head by Saudi Arabia, said, “The naval forces of the Yemeni Armed Forces carried out a targeting operation against the commercial ship, ‘MSC United’ with appropriate naval missiles.”

“The targeting operation of the ship came after the crew refused, for the third time, calls from the naval forces, as well as repeated fiery warning messages”, the statement added.&nbsp;

As the attacks on shipping containers became rampant, the Houthi militia also carried out drone attacks on the Israeli port city of Eilat.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In continuation to a slew of attacks in the Red Sea against the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war, another container ship that was heading to the Karachi Port from King Abdullah Port in Saudi Arabia was targeted on Tuesday (Dec 26), media reports said.

In continuation to a slew of attacks in the Red Sea against the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war, another container ship that was heading to the Karachi Port from King Abdullah Port in Saudi Arabia was targeted on Tuesday (Dec 26), media reports said. This comes amid a flurry of drone strikes by Iran-backed Houthi rebels and the counterstrikes by the US in the Red Sea. The attack has been claimed by Yemen’s Houthi militia. No casualties have been reported on board the ship, as per reports citing a statement by the owner of the ship. Ships navigating in the Red Sea are frequently being targeted, which is triggering concerns regarding a spillover of the Gaza war. According to the global shipping line Mediterranean Shipping Co, which was founded by Gianluigi Aponte in Italy in 1970, United VIII was attacked while it was transiting the Red Sea. United VIII was reportedly built in 2006. Presently, the ship is sailing under the flag of Liberia. Also Read | Biden, Qatar's Emir discuss Gaza hostages, boosting aid - White House "All crew are safe with no reported injuries and a thorough assessment of the vessel is being conducted," MSC said and added, “The vessel was en route from King Abdullah Port to Karachi.” The company has assured that its top priority is to ensure the safety of the seafarers and that "MSC will continue to reroute vessels booked for Suez transit via the Cape of Good Hope”. With the number of attacks in the Red Sea seeing a spike, the Cape of Good Hope route, on the Atlantic coast of the Cape Peninsula in South Africa, is being treated as an alternative by the shipping companies. A nearby coalition task force notified Reports by news agencies citing the MSC shipping company said that following the attack, the ship had sent a notification to a nearby coalition task force warship. Presently, the shipping company is engaged in carrying out ‘evasive manoeuvres’. Also Read | MV Chem Pluto drone attack: Initial investigation of debris hints at Iran link, says report Watch | CMA CGM and Maersk navigate red sea challenges × Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree, who reportedly has a $5 million bounty on his head by Saudi Arabia, said, “The naval forces of the Yemeni Armed Forces carried out a targeting operation against the commercial ship, ‘MSC United’ with appropriate naval missiles.” “The targeting operation of the ship came after the crew refused, for the third time, calls from the naval forces, as well as repeated fiery warning messages”, the statement added. As the attacks on shipping containers became rampant, the Houthi militia also carried out drone attacks on the Israeli port city of Eilat. (With inputs from agencies)

Karachi-bound container ship comes under attack in Red Sea, Houthi militia claims responsibility

China has recently introduced its groundbreaking ocean-drilling vessel, the Mengxiang, designed to embark on a&nbsp;mission of penetrating the Earth's crust.

If successful, this&nbsp;would be&nbsp;humanity's first&nbsp;exploration into the upper mantle of the planet.

Crafted by the China Geological Survey in collaboration with over 150 research institutes and companies, the Mengxiang is a colossal ship with a cargo capacity of 33,000 tonnes.

Spanning 179 metres in length and 32.8 metres&nbsp;in width, the vessel can traverse 15,000 nautical miles and operate for 120 days per port call, according to the South China Morning Post.

Its robust stability and structure makes it resilient against the fiercest tropical cyclones, while its drilling capabilities allow it to reach an impressive depth of 11,000 metres below the ocean's surface.

Traditionally, human activities and scientific exploration have been confined to the Earth's crust, which has an average thickness of 15,000 metres.&nbsp;Beneath the crust lies the mantle, a pivotal layer connecting the surface to the core.

The Mengxiang aims to breach the Mohorovicic discontinuity, or Moho, located about 7,000 metres&nbsp;beneath the ocean floor, opening the door to previously unexplored scientific territories.

Also watch this report

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<h2>Historical attempts&nbsp;</h2>

Despite attempts since the 1960s by American scientists to breach the Moho and reach the mantle, the goal has remained elusive.

However, advancements in deep ocean drilling technology have provided valuable insights into the Earth's structure.

Rock samples from ultra-deep boreholes have unveiled crucial information about plate tectonics, oceanic crust evolution, ancient ocean climates, and seabed resources.

Speculations about life existing within the mantle abound, fueled by discoveries of organisms capable of withstanding extreme conditions. The mantle's composition, particularly peridotite, could produce energy for life forms.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earths-inner-core-might-have-stopped-and-changed-direction-check-what-happens-now-555556">Also read |&nbsp;Earth's inner core might have stopped and changed direction: Check out what happens now!</a>

However, skepticism exists, even as some scientists point to the presence of dormant microbes with slow metabolism in seabed rocks.

The recent trials of the Mengxiang primarily focused on testing its propulsion system, powered by a 30-megawatt station. Challenges, however, persist in reaching the targeted 11,000 metres&nbsp;beneath the water's surface, including high temperatures and pressures. Advanced drilling techniques, high-quality drill bits, and circulation systems are deemed necessary, requiring substantial time, money, and facing potential failure risks.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

China has recently introduced its groundbreaking ocean-drilling vessel, the Mengxiang, designed to embark on a mission of penetrating the Earth's crust. If successful, this would be humanity's first exploration into the upper mantle of the planet.

China has recently introduced its groundbreaking ocean-drilling vessel, the Mengxiang, designed to embark on a mission of penetrating the Earth's crust. If successful, this would be humanity's first exploration into the upper mantle of the planet. Crafted by the China Geological Survey in collaboration with over 150 research institutes and companies, the Mengxiang is a colossal ship with a cargo capacity of 33,000 tonnes. Spanning 179 metres in length and 32.8 metres in width, the vessel can traverse 15,000 nautical miles and operate for 120 days per port call, according to the South China Morning Post. Its robust stability and structure makes it resilient against the fiercest tropical cyclones, while its drilling capabilities allow it to reach an impressive depth of 11,000 metres below the ocean's surface. Traditionally, human activities and scientific exploration have been confined to the Earth's crust, which has an average thickness of 15,000 metres. Beneath the crust lies the mantle, a pivotal layer connecting the surface to the core. The Mengxiang aims to breach the Mohorovicic discontinuity, or Moho, located about 7,000 metres beneath the ocean floor, opening the door to previously unexplored scientific territories. Also watch this report Historical attempts Despite attempts since the 1960s by American scientists to breach the Moho and reach the mantle, the goal has remained elusive. However, advancements in deep ocean drilling technology have provided valuable insights into the Earth's structure. Rock samples from ultra-deep boreholes have unveiled crucial information about plate tectonics, oceanic crust evolution, ancient ocean climates, and seabed resources. Speculations about life existing within the mantle abound, fueled by discoveries of organisms capable of withstanding extreme conditions. The mantle's composition, particularly peridotite, could produce energy for life forms. Also read | Earth's inner core might have stopped and changed direction: Check out what happens now! However, skepticism exists, even as some scientists point to the presence of dormant microbes with slow metabolism in seabed rocks. The recent trials of the Mengxiang primarily focused on testing its propulsion system, powered by a 30-megawatt station. Challenges, however, persist in reaching the targeted 11,000 metres beneath the water's surface, including high temperatures and pressures. Advanced drilling techniques, high-quality drill bits, and circulation systems are deemed necessary, requiring substantial time, money, and facing potential failure risks. (With inputs from agencies)

China's ocean-drilling ship Mengxiang sets sail to reach earth's mantle

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