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Australian-born investigative journalist and documentary maker&nbsp;John&nbsp;Pilger, known for his support for WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange and his coverage of the aftermath of Pol Pot's regime in Cambodia and the Thalidomide scandal, has died in London, his family said Sunday.

Pilger, who had mostly lived in Britain since the early 1960s, had worked for Reuters, Britain's left-wing Daily Mirror and commercial channel ITV's former investigative programme World In Action.

In 1979, the ITV film "Year Zero: The Silent Death Of Cambodia" revealed the extent of the Khmer Rouge's crimes, and&nbsp;Pilger&nbsp;won an International Academy of Television Arts and Sciences award for his 1990s follow-up ITV documentary "Cambodia: The Betrayal".

Pilger&nbsp;also made the 1974 documentary for ITV called "Thalidomide: The Ninety-Eight We Forgot", about the campaign for compensation for children after concerns were raised about birth defects when expectant mothers took the drug.

He received Bafta's Richard Dimbleby Award for factual reporting in 1991.

"It is with great sadness the family of&nbsp;John&nbsp;Pilger&nbsp;announce he died yesterday 30 December 2023 in London aged 84," it posted on X.

"His journalism and documentaries were celebrated around the world, but to his family he was simply the most amazing and loved Dad, Grandad and partner. Rest In Peace."

Kevin Lygo, managing director of media and entertainment at ITV, called&nbsp;Pilger&nbsp;a "giant of campaigning journalism".

He had always "eschewed comfortable consensus" in favour of a "platform for dissenting voices over 50 years", he said.

Pilger&nbsp;also campaigned for the release of WikiLeaks founder Assange, who has been embroiled in a lengthy battle against extradition to the United States, and put up the cost of his bail.

Former Pink Floyd musician Roger Waters paid tribute, calling him a "friend" and a "great man".

<h2>'Truth to power'&nbsp;</h2>

On X, WikiLeaks called&nbsp;Pilger&nbsp;a "ferocious speaker of truth to power, whom in later years tirelessly advocated for the release and vindication of Julian Assange".

During his career,&nbsp;Pilger&nbsp;made a series of remarks criticising American and British foreign policy, and the treatment of Indigenous Australians.

Former leader of Britain's Labour Party Jeremy Corbyn wrote on X that he had given "a voice to the unheard and the occupied: in Australia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Chile, Iraq, East Timor, Palestine and beyond. Thank you for your bravery in pursuit of the truth — it will never be forgotten".

Pilger&nbsp;had also expressed controversial views on Russia and its President Vladimir Putin.

In 2018,&nbsp;Pilger&nbsp;called the attempted murder of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal, his daughter Yulia and an ex-police officer in the UK were a "carefully constructed drama" in an interview with Russia Today (RT).

The UK Government and Scotland Yard believe members of a Russian military intelligence squad carried out the attack in southwestern England.

Pilger&nbsp;told RT: "This is a carefully constructed drama as part of the propaganda campaign that has been building now for several years in order to justify the actions of NATO (the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation), Britain and the United States towards Russia. That's a fact."

In 2014, in The Guardian, he also said that "Putin is the only leader to condemn the rise of fascism in 21st-century Europe", and last year called in The South China Morning Post for scepticism on the reporting about the invasion of Ukraine by Russia.

His most recent documentaries included "The Coming War On China", broadcast in 2016 on ITV.

Australian-born investigative journalist and documentary maker John Pilger, known for his support for WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange and his coverage of the aftermath of Pol Pot's regime in Cambodia and the Thalidomide scandal, has died in London, his family said Sunday.

Australian-born investigative journalist and documentary maker John Pilger, known for his support for WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange and his coverage of the aftermath of Pol Pot's regime in Cambodia and the Thalidomide scandal, has died in London, his family said Sunday. Pilger, who had mostly lived in Britain since the early 1960s, had worked for Reuters, Britain's left-wing Daily Mirror and commercial channel ITV's former investigative programme World In Action. In 1979, the ITV film "Year Zero: The Silent Death Of Cambodia" revealed the extent of the Khmer Rouge's crimes, and Pilger won an International Academy of Television Arts and Sciences award for his 1990s follow-up ITV documentary "Cambodia: The Betrayal". Pilger also made the 1974 documentary for ITV called "Thalidomide: The Ninety-Eight We Forgot", about the campaign for compensation for children after concerns were raised about birth defects when expectant mothers took the drug. He received Bafta's Richard Dimbleby Award for factual reporting in 1991. "It is with great sadness the family of John Pilger announce he died yesterday 30 December 2023 in London aged 84," it posted on X. "His journalism and documentaries were celebrated around the world, but to his family he was simply the most amazing and loved Dad, Grandad and partner. Rest In Peace." Kevin Lygo, managing director of media and entertainment at ITV, called Pilger a "giant of campaigning journalism". He had always "eschewed comfortable consensus" in favour of a "platform for dissenting voices over 50 years", he said. Pilger also campaigned for the release of WikiLeaks founder Assange, who has been embroiled in a lengthy battle against extradition to the United States, and put up the cost of his bail. Former Pink Floyd musician Roger Waters paid tribute, calling him a "friend" and a "great man". 'Truth to power' On X, WikiLeaks called Pilger a "ferocious speaker of truth to power, whom in later years tirelessly advocated for the release and vindication of Julian Assange". During his career, Pilger made a series of remarks criticising American and British foreign policy, and the treatment of Indigenous Australians. Former leader of Britain's Labour Party Jeremy Corbyn wrote on X that he had given "a voice to the unheard and the occupied: in Australia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Chile, Iraq, East Timor, Palestine and beyond. Thank you for your bravery in pursuit of the truth — it will never be forgotten". Pilger had also expressed controversial views on Russia and its President Vladimir Putin. In 2018, Pilger called the attempted murder of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal, his daughter Yulia and an ex-police officer in the UK were a "carefully constructed drama" in an interview with Russia Today (RT). The UK Government and Scotland Yard believe members of a Russian military intelligence squad carried out the attack in southwestern England. Pilger told RT: "This is a carefully constructed drama as part of the propaganda campaign that has been building now for several years in order to justify the actions of NATO (the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation), Britain and the United States towards Russia. That's a fact." In 2014, in The Guardian, he also said that "Putin is the only leader to condemn the rise of fascism in 21st-century Europe", and last year called in The South China Morning Post for scepticism on the reporting about the invasion of Ukraine by Russia. His most recent documentaries included "The Coming War On China", broadcast in 2016 on ITV.

Campaigning journalist John Pilger dies aged 84

Israeli air strikes relentlessly pounded the blockaded Palestinian enclave of Gaza on the last day of 2023 in a stark&nbsp;culmination of a year of conflict between the Jewish state and the militant group Hamas.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a stern warning to Hamas and asserted&nbsp;that the conflict triggered by Hamas' October 7 terror attack on Israel would continue for "many months."

The Israeli Army reportedly engaged in multiple ground battles, air raids, and tank strikes. It also&nbsp;claimed to have identified Hamas tunnels and explosives in locations such as a kindergarten.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-riyadhs-show-of-islamic-unity-for-palestine-amid-israel-hamas-war-657849">The Capitals: Riyadh's show of Islamic unity for Palestine amid Israel-Hamas war</a>

The UN disclosed that 85 per cent of Gaza's 2.4 million people have been displaced, and warned of a continued humanitarian crisis&nbsp;as winter takes hold.

<h2>Israel-Hamas war: What the situation in Gaza is like&nbsp;</h2>

As&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war continues raging since October 7, 2023, Gaza's landscape has transformed into a wasteland, with casualties reaching a staggering 21,822, mostly women and children, according to the latest figures released by the Hamas-run&nbsp;health ministry in Gaza.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the plight of Israelis held hostage by Hamas&nbsp;remains dire, with at least 129 believed to be still held in Gaza.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Displaced Palestinians wish to return home

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Hospitals in Gaza are overwhelmed or out of service.

Despite international calls for a ceasefire, Israel remains resolute in its pursuit of 'decimating'&nbsp;Hamas.

UN Chief Antonio Guterres condemned the "epic human suffering" and "collective punishment" faced by Palestinian civilians.

As the world watches, the immediate future remains uncertain, with the shadow of continued conflict looming large.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli air strikes relentlessly pounded the blockaded Palestinian enclave of Gaza on the last day of 2023 in a stark culmination of a year of conflict between the Jewish state and the militant group Hamas.

Israeli air strikes relentlessly pounded the blockaded Palestinian enclave of Gaza on the last day of 2023 in a stark culmination of a year of conflict between the Jewish state and the militant group Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a stern warning to Hamas and asserted that the conflict triggered by Hamas' October 7 terror attack on Israel would continue for "many months." The Israeli Army reportedly engaged in multiple ground battles, air raids, and tank strikes. It also claimed to have identified Hamas tunnels and explosives in locations such as a kindergarten. Also read | The Capitals: Riyadh's show of Islamic unity for Palestine amid Israel-Hamas war The UN disclosed that 85 per cent of Gaza's 2.4 million people have been displaced, and warned of a continued humanitarian crisis as winter takes hold. Israel-Hamas war: What the situation in Gaza is like As Israel-Hamas war continues raging since October 7, 2023, Gaza's landscape has transformed into a wasteland, with casualties reaching a staggering 21,822, mostly women and children, according to the latest figures released by the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza. Meanwhile, the plight of Israelis held hostage by Hamas remains dire, with at least 129 believed to be still held in Gaza. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: Displaced Palestinians wish to return home × Hospitals in Gaza are overwhelmed or out of service. Despite international calls for a ceasefire, Israel remains resolute in its pursuit of 'decimating' Hamas. UN Chief Antonio Guterres condemned the "epic human suffering" and "collective punishment" faced by Palestinian civilians. As the world watches, the immediate future remains uncertain, with the shadow of continued conflict looming large. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Gaza conflict set to go on for 'many months' in 2024

German police on Sunday (Dec 31) arrested three people over allegedly plotting to attack&nbsp;Cologne's iconic cathedral on New Year's Eve.

The police released a statement saying that the suspects arrested had planned to attack the cathedral via a car.

The "alleged means of attack" is a car, said police in the western city, adding that security measures have been ramped up around the area.

The three suspects are believed to be connected to a Tajik who was arrested on Christmas Eve, Cologne police chief Johannes Hermann said.

The Tajik was detained on the day when Austria announced the arrests of another three suspects in Vienna.

As per Bild daily reports, all the four arrested were Tajiks who had allegedly planned on carrying out the attacks for Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K), an IS offshoot in Afghanistan.

"Islamist people and groups" are "more active than ever at the moment," said warned Herbert Reul, interior minister of North Rhine-Westphalia state, where Cologne is located.

The investigations that were conducted after the Tajik's arrest found&nbsp;that there was a plot to deploy a car as a means of attack, but "in which way is not known to us," said Frank Wissbaum of Cologne police.

Police said that the officers had deployed sniffer dogs to search the underground parking of the iconic cathedral for explosives, however, they haven't yet come across anything suspicious.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-will-surely-be-reunified-says-president-xi-jinping-in-new-years-speech-675342">China 'will surely be reunified', says Xi Jinping in New Year's speech</a>

Wissbaum said that protective measures were ramped up with nearly 1,000 police officers deployed since this afternoon to "protect the cathedral and the population in Cologne city centre".

<h2>Europe on high alert</h2>

Countries have been ramping up security measures to ensure safe New Year celebrations amid heightened terror threats linked to the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Germany had been on high alert over possible Islamist attacks after the country's domestic intelligence chief issued a warning in late November this year that the risk of such assaults is "real and higher than it has been for a long time" because of the Israel-Hamas war.

France had earlier released a statement saying that it would deploy close to 90,000 police officers across the country, with 6,000 of them in Paris alone, for the weekend's New Year&nbsp;celebrations due to the 'very high' terrorist threat.

"I have called for an extremely high turnout of police and security forces given the context of the very high terrorist threat due to, clearly, what is happening in Israel and in Palestine," Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Friday (Dec 29).

(With inputs from agencies)

German police on Sunday (Dec 31) arrested three people over allegedly plotting to attack Cologne's iconic cathedral on New Year's Eve. The police released a statement saying that the suspects arrested had planned to attack the cathedral via a car.

German police on Sunday (Dec 31) arrested three people over allegedly plotting to attack Cologne's iconic cathedral on New Year's Eve. The police released a statement saying that the suspects arrested had planned to attack the cathedral via a car. The "alleged means of attack" is a car, said police in the western city, adding that security measures have been ramped up around the area. The three suspects are believed to be connected to a Tajik who was arrested on Christmas Eve, Cologne police chief Johannes Hermann said. The Tajik was detained on the day when Austria announced the arrests of another three suspects in Vienna. As per Bild daily reports, all the four arrested were Tajiks who had allegedly planned on carrying out the attacks for Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K), an IS offshoot in Afghanistan. "Islamist people and groups" are "more active than ever at the moment," said warned Herbert Reul, interior minister of North Rhine-Westphalia state, where Cologne is located. The investigations that were conducted after the Tajik's arrest found that there was a plot to deploy a car as a means of attack, but "in which way is not known to us," said Frank Wissbaum of Cologne police. Police said that the officers had deployed sniffer dogs to search the underground parking of the iconic cathedral for explosives, however, they haven't yet come across anything suspicious. Also read: China 'will surely be reunified', says Xi Jinping in New Year's speech Wissbaum said that protective measures were ramped up with nearly 1,000 police officers deployed since this afternoon to "protect the cathedral and the population in Cologne city centre". Europe on high alert Countries have been ramping up security measures to ensure safe New Year celebrations amid heightened terror threats linked to the war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Germany had been on high alert over possible Islamist attacks after the country's domestic intelligence chief issued a warning in late November this year that the risk of such assaults is "real and higher than it has been for a long time" because of the Israel-Hamas war. France had earlier released a statement saying that it would deploy close to 90,000 police officers across the country, with 6,000 of them in Paris alone, for the weekend's New Year celebrations due to the 'very high' terrorist threat. "I have called for an extremely high turnout of police and security forces given the context of the very high terrorist threat due to, clearly, what is happening in Israel and in Palestine," Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Friday (Dec 29). (With inputs from agencies)

Arrests made in Germany over 'Cologne cathedral attack plot': Police

The British Conservative lawmakers reportedly expressed anger and alarm over reports that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak offered Boris Johnson's former chief aide Dominic Cummings a secret deal to help him win the elections.&nbsp;

According to a report in The Guardian, one Conservative MP said that Cummings should have "no place in political life".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dominic-cummings-claims-secret-deal-with-rishi-sunak-for-election-victory-675206">Dominic Cummings claims 'secret deal' with Rishi Sunak for election victory</a>

Another reportedly likened it to letting "an arsonist into your home".

<h2>Sunak met Cummings twice inside 10, Downing Street</h2>

Downing Street has not denied Sunak met Cummings twice for discussions. They, however, rejected Cummings’s assertion that this involved a job offer, saying the prime minister simply had "a broad discussion" with him.

Also watch |&nbsp;Former UK PM Boris Johnson claims Rishi Sunak was a 'stooge' put in place by Cummings | WION

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Cummings, one of the architects of the successful Vote Leave campaign, was sacked by Johnson, and&nbsp;continues to remain one of the most controversial figures in UK politics.

<h2>What did Sunak expect of Cummings?</h2>

According to sources cited by The Guardian, Cummings claimed that Sunak proposed a private role for him in preparing for the next election.&nbsp;

But disagreements arose over the terms of this arrangement, with Cummings insisting on prioritisation of critical issues. Cummings stated, "I'd rather the Tories lose than continue without prioritizing what's important and the voters."

One former cabinet minister described Cummings as "deeply toxic".

Another senior backbencher reportedly questioned the potential harm Cummings could bring, recalling the public outrage over his trip to Bernard Castle during the pandemic.

Downing Street reportedly did not declare these meetings in the official register, the Guardian report claimed. A government spokesperson said: “In full accordance with the ministerial code, meetings with private individuals to discuss political matters do not need to be declared.”

Cummings became a figure of some national ridicule across Britain during the pandemic when he claimed that he drove his family to the County Durham beauty spot of Barnard Castle to "test his eyesight".

The British Conservative lawmakers reportedly expressed anger and alarm over reports that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak offered Boris Johnson's former chief aide Dominic Cummings a secret deal to help him win the elections.

The British Conservative lawmakers reportedly expressed anger and alarm over reports that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak offered Boris Johnson's former chief aide Dominic Cummings a secret deal to help him win the elections. According to a report in The Guardian, one Conservative MP said that Cummings should have "no place in political life". Also read | Dominic Cummings claims 'secret deal' with Rishi Sunak for election victory Another reportedly likened it to letting "an arsonist into your home". Sunak met Cummings twice inside 10, Downing Street Downing Street has not denied Sunak met Cummings twice for discussions. They, however, rejected Cummings’s assertion that this involved a job offer, saying the prime minister simply had "a broad discussion" with him. Also watch | Former UK PM Boris Johnson claims Rishi Sunak was a 'stooge' put in place by Cummings | WION × Cummings, one of the architects of the successful Vote Leave campaign, was sacked by Johnson, and continues to remain one of the most controversial figures in UK politics. What did Sunak expect of Cummings? According to sources cited by The Guardian, Cummings claimed that Sunak proposed a private role for him in preparing for the next election. But disagreements arose over the terms of this arrangement, with Cummings insisting on prioritisation of critical issues. Cummings stated, "I'd rather the Tories lose than continue without prioritizing what's important and the voters." One former cabinet minister described Cummings as "deeply toxic". Another senior backbencher reportedly questioned the potential harm Cummings could bring, recalling the public outrage over his trip to Bernard Castle during the pandemic. Downing Street reportedly did not declare these meetings in the official register, the Guardian report claimed. A government spokesperson said: “In full accordance with the ministerial code, meetings with private individuals to discuss political matters do not need to be declared.” Cummings became a figure of some national ridicule across Britain during the pandemic when he claimed that he drove his family to the County Durham beauty spot of Barnard Castle to "test his eyesight".

UK PM Sunak at centre of Tory breakdown over 'secret election talks' with Dominic Cummings

In Pics | World welcomes 2024 with enthusiasm and hope

There is no end in sight to China's economic troubles. For the third consecutive month, China's manufacturing activity contracted. This indicates the ongoing pressure from weak domestic and international demand on the economy.

China's factory activity shrinks for third straight month

ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) successfully launched XPoSat (X-ray Polarimeter Satellite) on first day of new year 2024. The XPoSat will study Black Holes and neutron stars.

In other news, Israel pounded Gaza Strip with attacks on December 31, 2023 and early hours of January 2024.

Meanwhile, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to unleash Ukrainian 'wrath' on Russia in the new year.

Read these and more in our morning news brief.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/isro-successfully-launches-xposat-on-first-day-of-new-year-2024-675427">ISRO successfully launches XPoSat on first day of new year 2024</a>

With successful launch of ISRO's XPoSat, India has become second country after the United States to send specialised observatory into space to study black holes and neutron stars.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/01/402895-xposat-2.jpg?imwidth=256" />

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-has-become-stronger-zelensky-vows-to-unleash-wrath-against-russia-in-2024-675416">Ukrainian President Zelensky vows to unleash 'wrath' against Russia in 2024</a>

In his new year's address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed to unleash formidable "wrath" against enemy Russia. In contrast, Russian President Vladimir Putin's New Year's Eve address was notably scaled back compared to last year's and was also devoid of any mention of the conflict that has now entered its third calender year.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/01/402880-new-wion-95.jpg?imwidth=640" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-gaza-conflict-looms-large-for-many-months-in-2024-675368">Israel-Hamas war: Gaza conflict looms large for 'many months' in 2024</a>

As several weeklong Israel-Hamas war continues to rage since October 7, 2023, Gaza's landscape has transformed into a wasteland, with casualties reaching a staggering 21,822, according to the latest figures released by the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza.&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/31/402842-untitled-design-2023-12-31t231912223.png?imwidth=256" />

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-claims-it-killed-dozens-of-pakistanis-involved-in-attacks-inside-afghanistan-675403">Taliban claims it killed dozens of Pakistanis involved in attacks inside Afghanistan</a>

The tensions between Kabul and Islamabad have spiked after hundreds of thousands of Afghans left Pakistan after the country ordered "illegal" migrants to leave the country.

<img alt="Taliban" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="86e66ce5-841d-4036-946f-4d7aaa9039b3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Taliban_1.png" />

Watch | US: Trump's legal advisor Michael Cohen accidentally cited fake court cases generated by AI

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&nbsp;

ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) successfully launched XPoSat (X-ray Polarimeter Satellite) on first day of new year 2024. The XPoSat will study Black Holes and neutron stars.

ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) successfully launched XPoSat (X-ray Polarimeter Satellite) on first day of new year 2024. The XPoSat will study Black Holes and neutron stars. In other news, Israel pounded Gaza Strip with attacks on December 31, 2023 and early hours of January 2024. Meanwhile, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to unleash Ukrainian 'wrath' on Russia in the new year. Read these and more in our morning news brief. ISRO successfully launches XPoSat on first day of new year 2024 With successful launch of ISRO's XPoSat, India has become second country after the United States to send specialised observatory into space to study black holes and neutron stars. Ukrainian President Zelensky vows to unleash 'wrath' against Russia in 2024 In his new year's address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed to unleash formidable "wrath" against enemy Russia. In contrast, Russian President Vladimir Putin's New Year's Eve address was notably scaled back compared to last year's and was also devoid of any mention of the conflict that has now entered its third calender year. Israel-Hamas war: Gaza conflict looms large for 'many months' in 2024 As several weeklong Israel-Hamas war continues to rage since October 7, 2023, Gaza's landscape has transformed into a wasteland, with casualties reaching a staggering 21,822, according to the latest figures released by the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza. Taliban claims it killed dozens of Pakistanis involved in attacks inside Afghanistan The tensions between Kabul and Islamabad have spiked after hundreds of thousands of Afghans left Pakistan after the country ordered "illegal" migrants to leave the country. Watch | US: Trump's legal advisor Michael Cohen accidentally cited fake court cases generated by AI ×

Morning news brief: ISRO launches XPoSat, Zelensky speaks of Ukrainian 'wrath', and more

People across the world welcomed the New Year with enthusiasm and hopes that 2024 will come with peace, prosperity and happiness as people have wrapped up 2023 — a year which was defined by wars and climate crises.&nbsp;

The year 2023 has gone by, leaving some bittersweet memories. When it started, the world was still discussing the vast impacts of the Russia-Ukraine war. Little did we know that we would see another war, later in October — the Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;

On October 7, hundreds of Hamas militants entered Israel, crossing the border from Gaza, killing around 1,140 people, mostly civilians. They took about 250 people as hostages, some of them were returned when the two sides agreed to a week-long truce. During the truce period, Hamas released 105 hostages, mostly women and children, and Israel freed 240 Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-world-welcomes-2024-with-enthusiasm-and-hope-675385">World welcomes 2024 with enthusiasm and hope</a>&nbsp;

The attack by Hamas militants was termed the worst in Israel's history. The gunmen reportedly raped women, killed babies, showing a horrible side of the war. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to "destroy" Hamas and launched a campaign of air strikes in Gaza followed by a ground offensive that reduced many regions in the Gaza Strip to rubble.&nbsp;

The war is likely to continue for "many more months" as Gazans have little hope that 2024 will offer much relief. On Sunday, the last day of 2023, those on the Rafah border were more concerned with finding shelter, food, and water than with thinking about the New Year. The border with Egypt has become the main hub for Palestinians fleeing other sections of the enclave.&nbsp;

In the Russia-Ukraine war, Kyiv launched a highly anticipated counteroffensive after amassing billions in powerful Western-made weapons and training new recruits, but the conflict remained a stalemate. And at the fag end of the war, both sides made fresh claims of missiles and drones strikes.&nbsp;

But the year brought rare good news for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in mid-December when EU leaders agreed to open membership talks with Kyiv.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rewind-2023-nasas-james-webb-telescope-clicked-some-of-the-best-images-675366">NASA's James Webb telescope clicked some really good images</a>

<h2>Climate crisis&nbsp;</h2>

The European Union's climate monitor predicted 2023 to be the hottest on record. Drought made worse by climate change is cited as one of the factors behind the deadliest wildfire in the United States in a century that claimed at least 115 lives on the Hawaiian island of Maui in August.&nbsp;

<h2>Quakes and other news&nbsp;</h2>

In the early hours of February 6, one of the deadliest earthquakes in a century flattened entire cities in southeast Turkey, killing more than 50,000 people, with nearly 6,000 others killed across the border in Syria.&nbsp;

On September 8, an earthquake struck Morocco's Marrakesh–Safi region, killing nearly 3,000 people. The earthquake's epicentre was located 73.4 km southwest of Marrakesh, near the town of Ighil and the Oukaïmeden ski resort in the Atlas.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;New Year 2024: Australia, New Zealand welcome 2024 with fireworks, celebrations&nbsp;

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<h2>What did the leaders say?&nbsp;</h2>

Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed his soldiers as heroes but mostly emphasised unity and shared determination as he made only passing reference in his New Year address about the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

While speaking in a televised speech to mark the New Year, Chinese leader Xi Jinping said that the country will consolidate and enhance the positive trend of its economic recovery in 2024, and sustain long-term economic development with deeper reforms. He also said that China would "surely be reunified".&nbsp;

North Korea vowed to launch three new spy satellites, build military drones, and boost its nuclear arsenal in 2024 as leader Kim Jong Un said US policy is making war inevitable, state media reported on Sunday.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron said in a televised address ahead of New Year celebrations that 2024 would be "the year of our French pride" marked by the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games and the re-opening of Notre Dame cathedral after a devastating fire.&nbsp;

So far, the trends suggest more months of wars, and discussions about nuclear weapons will dominate the coming year. But what will exactly happen, only time will tell.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

People across the world welcomed the New Year with enthusiasm and hopes that 2024 will come with peace, prosperity and happiness as people have wrapped up 2023 — a year which was defined by wars and climate crises.

People across the world welcomed the New Year with enthusiasm and hopes that 2024 will come with peace, prosperity and happiness as people have wrapped up 2023 — a year which was defined by wars and climate crises. The year 2023 has gone by, leaving some bittersweet memories. When it started, the world was still discussing the vast impacts of the Russia-Ukraine war. Little did we know that we would see another war, later in October — the Israel-Hamas war. On October 7, hundreds of Hamas militants entered Israel, crossing the border from Gaza, killing around 1,140 people, mostly civilians. They took about 250 people as hostages, some of them were returned when the two sides agreed to a week-long truce. During the truce period, Hamas released 105 hostages, mostly women and children, and Israel freed 240 Palestinian prisoners. Also read: World welcomes 2024 with enthusiasm and hope The attack by Hamas militants was termed the worst in Israel's history. The gunmen reportedly raped women, killed babies, showing a horrible side of the war. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to "destroy" Hamas and launched a campaign of air strikes in Gaza followed by a ground offensive that reduced many regions in the Gaza Strip to rubble. The war is likely to continue for "many more months" as Gazans have little hope that 2024 will offer much relief. On Sunday, the last day of 2023, those on the Rafah border were more concerned with finding shelter, food, and water than with thinking about the New Year. The border with Egypt has become the main hub for Palestinians fleeing other sections of the enclave. In the Russia-Ukraine war, Kyiv launched a highly anticipated counteroffensive after amassing billions in powerful Western-made weapons and training new recruits, but the conflict remained a stalemate. And at the fag end of the war, both sides made fresh claims of missiles and drones strikes. But the year brought rare good news for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in mid-December when EU leaders agreed to open membership talks with Kyiv. Also read: NASA's James Webb telescope clicked some really good images Climate crisis The European Union's climate monitor predicted 2023 to be the hottest on record. Drought made worse by climate change is cited as one of the factors behind the deadliest wildfire in the United States in a century that claimed at least 115 lives on the Hawaiian island of Maui in August. Quakes and other news In the early hours of February 6, one of the deadliest earthquakes in a century flattened entire cities in southeast Turkey, killing more than 50,000 people, with nearly 6,000 others killed across the border in Syria. On September 8, an earthquake struck Morocco's Marrakesh–Safi region, killing nearly 3,000 people. The earthquake's epicentre was located 73.4 km southwest of Marrakesh, near the town of Ighil and the Oukaïmeden ski resort in the Atlas. Watch: New Year 2024: Australia, New Zealand welcome 2024 with fireworks, celebrations × What did the leaders say? Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed his soldiers as heroes but mostly emphasised unity and shared determination as he made only passing reference in his New Year address about the war in Ukraine. While speaking in a televised speech to mark the New Year, Chinese leader Xi Jinping said that the country will consolidate and enhance the positive trend of its economic recovery in 2024, and sustain long-term economic development with deeper reforms. He also said that China would "surely be reunified". North Korea vowed to launch three new spy satellites, build military drones, and boost its nuclear arsenal in 2024 as leader Kim Jong Un said US policy is making war inevitable, state media reported on Sunday. French President Emmanuel Macron said in a televised address ahead of New Year celebrations that 2024 would be "the year of our French pride" marked by the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games and the re-opening of Notre Dame cathedral after a devastating fire. So far, the trends suggest more months of wars, and discussions about nuclear weapons will dominate the coming year. But what will exactly happen, only time will tell. (With inputs from agencies)

World welcomes new year, bids farewell to 2023, a year marked by wars and climate crises

In a surprise announcement, Denmark's Queen Margrethe II on Sunday (Dec 31) said she will abdicate the throne,&nbsp;passing the baton to her son Crown Prince Frederik. In a New Year's eve national address on television, the queen said she will abdicate on January 14.&nbsp;

In the announcement broadcast on Danish television, the queen, 83,&nbsp;said she is doing this because of her age and health issues.&nbsp;

Queen Margrethe II is Europe's longest-serving monarch and last reigning queen after the death of Britain's Elizabeth II. She is praised for modernising Danish royalty in her half-century on the throne.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-sunak-at-centre-of-tory-breakdown-over-secret-election-talks-with-dominic-cummings-675371">UK PM Sunak at centre of Tory breakdown over 'secret election talks' with Dominic Cummings</a>&nbsp;

"In two weeks time, I have been Queen of Denmark for 52 years," she said, adding that that length of time would take its toll on anyone.

She added. "One cannot undertake as much as one managed in the past..."&nbsp;

"On 14th January 2024 - 52 years after I succeeded my beloved father – I will step down as Queen of Denmark. I will hand over the throne to my son Crown Prince Frederik," she said.&nbsp;

Earlier, she had repeatedly said she would never abdicate. However, a back surgery she underwent in February "gave cause to thoughts about the future - whether now would be an appropriate time to pass on the responsibility to the next generation".

People have shared their opinions on the queen's announcement.

She is extremely popular in the nation, especially for her artistic talents.

Historian Lars Hovebakke Sorensen told the news agency AFP: "She has managed to be a queen who has united the Danish nation in a time of large changes: globalisation, the appearance of the multicultural state, economic crises in the 1970s, 1980s and again in 2008 to 2015, and the pandemic."&nbsp;

"The basis of her popularity is that the queen is absolutely non-political," he added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arrests-in-germany-over-cologne-cathedral-attack-plot-police-675355">Arrests in Germany over 'Cologne cathedral attack plot'</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;McDonald's Malaysia: BDS movement has led to loss of profits and job cuts

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<h2>Who is Queen Margrethe II?&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

Born into the House of Glücksburg as the eldest child of King Frederik IX and Queen Ingrid in 1940, the six-foot-tall monarch has been a popular public figures in Denmark.

In a country where the royals mainly have a ceremonial role, the chain-smoking queen used to stroll the streets of Copenhagen with almost no&nbsp;security or entourage.

She became heir apparent in 1953, after women were allowed to inherit the throne following a constitutional amendment.&nbsp;

A linguist and designer, she is known for her relaxed and playful side, as well as for her involvement in Denmark's cultural scene.

She is a painter as well as a costume and set designer and has worked with the Royal Danish Ballet and Royal Danish Theatre several times.&nbsp;

She studied at Cambridge and the Sorbonne in Paris, and is fluent in English, French, German and Swedish. She has also translated plays, including Simone de Beauvoir's All Men Are Mortal with her French-born husband Henri de Laborde de Monpezat under a pseudonym. Monpezat died in 2018.

But of all, her paintings and drawings grabbed most of the attention.&nbsp;

She has illustrated several books, including a Danish 2002 edition of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, and her paintings have been exhibited in museums and galleries in Denmark and abroad.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a surprise announcement, Denmark's Queen Margrethe II on Sunday (Dec 31) said she will abdicate the throne, passing the baton to her son Crown Prince Frederik.

In a surprise announcement, Denmark's Queen Margrethe II on Sunday (Dec 31) said she will abdicate the throne, passing the baton to her son Crown Prince Frederik. In a New Year's eve national address on television, the queen said she will abdicate on January 14. In the announcement broadcast on Danish television, the queen, 83, said she is doing this because of her age and health issues. Queen Margrethe II is Europe's longest-serving monarch and last reigning queen after the death of Britain's Elizabeth II. She is praised for modernising Danish royalty in her half-century on the throne. Also read: UK PM Sunak at centre of Tory breakdown over 'secret election talks' with Dominic Cummings "In two weeks time, I have been Queen of Denmark for 52 years," she said, adding that that length of time would take its toll on anyone. She added. "One cannot undertake as much as one managed in the past..." "On 14th January 2024 - 52 years after I succeeded my beloved father – I will step down as Queen of Denmark. I will hand over the throne to my son Crown Prince Frederik," she said. Earlier, she had repeatedly said she would never abdicate. However, a back surgery she underwent in February "gave cause to thoughts about the future - whether now would be an appropriate time to pass on the responsibility to the next generation". People have shared their opinions on the queen's announcement. She is extremely popular in the nation, especially for her artistic talents. Historian Lars Hovebakke Sorensen told the news agency AFP: "She has managed to be a queen who has united the Danish nation in a time of large changes: globalisation, the appearance of the multicultural state, economic crises in the 1970s, 1980s and again in 2008 to 2015, and the pandemic." "The basis of her popularity is that the queen is absolutely non-political," he added. Also read: Arrests in Germany over 'Cologne cathedral attack plot' Watch: McDonald's Malaysia: BDS movement has led to loss of profits and job cuts × Who is Queen Margrethe II? Born into the House of Glücksburg as the eldest child of King Frederik IX and Queen Ingrid in 1940, the six-foot-tall monarch has been a popular public figures in Denmark. In a country where the royals mainly have a ceremonial role, the chain-smoking queen used to stroll the streets of Copenhagen with almost no security or entourage. She became heir apparent in 1953, after women were allowed to inherit the throne following a constitutional amendment. A linguist and designer, she is known for her relaxed and playful side, as well as for her involvement in Denmark's cultural scene. She is a painter as well as a costume and set designer and has worked with the Royal Danish Ballet and Royal Danish Theatre several times. She studied at Cambridge and the Sorbonne in Paris, and is fluent in English, French, German and Swedish. She has also translated plays, including Simone de Beauvoir's All Men Are Mortal with her French-born husband Henri de Laborde de Monpezat under a pseudonym. Monpezat died in 2018. But of all, her paintings and drawings grabbed most of the attention. She has illustrated several books, including a Danish 2002 edition of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, and her paintings have been exhibited in museums and galleries in Denmark and abroad. (With inputs from agencies)

Denmark's Queen Margrethe II to abdicate after 52 years on the throne

Around 200 Israelis have tested positive for the JN.1 variant of the coronavirus (COVID-19), a Hebrew-language daily newspaper Maariv reported on Monday (Jan 1). In the past few weeks, the JN.1 strain has been spreading rapidly on a global scale.&nbsp;

As mentioned in the news report, the Health Ministry said that Israel has seen a "small rise in morbidity rates...around 200 cases of the sub-variant were recorded in Israel".&nbsp;

US-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a warning last month that the rapid spread of the sub-variant could force US hospitals to start preparing for large numbers of hospitalisations.&nbsp;

The JN.1 variant has triggered fears that the pandemic may return, and based on preliminary information, experts have said that the available vaccines were less effective at neutralising the strain. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/certain-countries-cancelled-new-year-celebrations-due-to-gaza-war-675553">Certain countries cancelled New Year celebrations due to Gaza war</a>&nbsp;

<h2>WHO on global health crises&nbsp;</h2>

Earlier this week, the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) said that the world needs to properly prepare for future pandemics after finally ending three years of Covid "crisis, pain and loss".&nbsp;

WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in his end-of-year message that 2023 had marked a turning point in fighting major health challenges but had also brought "immense and avoidable suffering".&nbsp;

While commenting on the Israel-Hamas war, Tedros urged the world to ramp up relief efforts for the Gaza Strip and seal a "monumental" pandemic accord to plug preparedness gaps that were exposed during the pandemic.&nbsp;

Tedros declared an end to Covid as an international public health emergency in May. "This marked a turning point for the world following three years of crisis, pain and loss for people everywhere. I'm glad to see that life has returned to normal," he recalled in a video message.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/africa-brazil-take-steps-to-halt-donkey-trade-dealing-supply-blow-to-chinese-ejiao-medicine-675578">Africa, Brazil take steps to halt donkey trade in major blow to supplies for Chinese ejiao medicine</a>&nbsp;

Tedros said that after 10 months, the WHO also lifted a similar emergency on mpox in May 2023, while the UN health agency approved new vaccines for malaria, dengue and meningitis. Meanwhile, Azerbaijan, Belize and Tajikistan were declared malaria-free.

Tedros also noted that the health impacts of climate change featured prominently at COP28, the latest annual UN climate conference held a few weeks ago.

However, "2023 has also been a year of immense and avoidable suffering and threats to health," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Around 200 Israelis have tested positive for the JN.1 variant of the coronavirus (COVID-19), a Hebrew-language daily newspaper Maariv reported on Monday (Jan 1).

Around 200 Israelis have tested positive for the JN.1 variant of the coronavirus (COVID-19), a Hebrew-language daily newspaper Maariv reported on Monday (Jan 1). In the past few weeks, the JN.1 strain has been spreading rapidly on a global scale. As mentioned in the news report, the Health Ministry said that Israel has seen a "small rise in morbidity rates...around 200 cases of the sub-variant were recorded in Israel". US-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a warning last month that the rapid spread of the sub-variant could force US hospitals to start preparing for large numbers of hospitalisations. The JN.1 variant has triggered fears that the pandemic may return, and based on preliminary information, experts have said that the available vaccines were less effective at neutralising the strain. Also read: Certain countries cancelled New Year celebrations due to Gaza war WHO on global health crises Earlier this week, the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) said that the world needs to properly prepare for future pandemics after finally ending three years of Covid "crisis, pain and loss". WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in his end-of-year message that 2023 had marked a turning point in fighting major health challenges but had also brought "immense and avoidable suffering". While commenting on the Israel-Hamas war, Tedros urged the world to ramp up relief efforts for the Gaza Strip and seal a "monumental" pandemic accord to plug preparedness gaps that were exposed during the pandemic. Tedros declared an end to Covid as an international public health emergency in May. "This marked a turning point for the world following three years of crisis, pain and loss for people everywhere. I'm glad to see that life has returned to normal," he recalled in a video message. Also read: Africa, Brazil take steps to halt donkey trade in major blow to supplies for Chinese ejiao medicine Tedros said that after 10 months, the WHO also lifted a similar emergency on mpox in May 2023, while the UN health agency approved new vaccines for malaria, dengue and meningitis. Meanwhile, Azerbaijan, Belize and Tajikistan were declared malaria-free. Tedros also noted that the health impacts of climate change featured prominently at COP28, the latest annual UN climate conference held a few weeks ago. However, "2023 has also been a year of immense and avoidable suffering and threats to health," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel health ministry says around 200 contracted new Covid sub-variant JN.1

In the latest, many countries and cities including Pakistan and Sharjah, refrained from celebrating New Year's due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. In other news, the Indian government declared Canada-based Goldy Brar as a terrorist under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Separately, same-sex couples can legally get married in Estonia starting Jan 1.

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/powerful-earthquake-jolts-japan-indian-embassy-sets-up-emergency-control-room-post-675566">Powerful earthquake jolts Japan: Indian Embassy sets up emergency control room post</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/01/402970-japan-earthquake.png?imwidth=3840" />

Indian Embassy in Japan has set up an emergency control room in the aftermath of a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tsunami-alert-issued-in-japan-after-powerful-earthquake-675497">powerful earthquake</a>&nbsp;and tsunami warning in the country on Monday (Jan 1).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/certain-countries-cancelled-new-year-celebrations-due-to-gaza-war-675553">Certain countries cancelled New Year celebrations due to Gaza war</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/01/402972-untitled-design-3.png?imwidth=3840" />

As the world welcomed the year 2024 early Monday (Jan 1), certain countries and cities did not celebrate New Year due to the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. According to reports, Pakistan and Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) banned New Year celebrations. In Iraq, many Christians cancelled their festivities due to the conflict, a report by PBS Newshour said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cytisine-pill-effective-against-smoking-addiction-gains-approval-in-uk-675562">Cytisine pill proves effective against smoking addiction, gains approval in UK</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/01/402979-the-battle-for-kyiv-2024-01-01t163611297.png?imwidth=3840" />

Doctors have revealed that smokers trying&nbsp;to quit have over double the chance of success when using a pill that reduces nicotine cravings. This medication, cytisine, derived from laburnum seeds, could be a pivotal tool in helping people&nbsp;to overcome smoking addiction.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-nicaraguas-role-in-us-migrant-crisis-amid-france-plane-row-675603">Explained | Nicaragua’s role in US migrant crisis amid France plane row</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/01/403002-untitled-design-5.png?imwidth=3840" />

In late December last year, an Airbus A340 bound for Nicaragua was detained in France over concerns that it was part of a human trafficking scheme. Operated by Romanian company Legend Airlines, the aircraft was held at Vatry airport, east of Paris, where it had stopped for refuelling. It had arrived from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and had 303 passengers of Indian nationality. Eleven minors were among the passengers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-shelling-in-moscow-held-donetsk-on-new-years-eve-four-killed-675626">Ukrainian shelling in Moscow-held Donetsk on New Year's Eve, four killed</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/01/403016-russia-ukraine-conflict.png?imwidth=3840" />

Russian-installed authorities on Monday (Jan 1) claimed that Ukrainian shelling of the Moscow-held city of Donetsk on New Year's Eve killed four people and wounded 13.&nbsp;

In a video on Telegram, the Russian-installed head of Donetsk Denis Pushilin said: "As a result of Ukrainian shelling of central Donetsk on New Year's Eve we can say that there are four dead and 13 wounded."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/africa-brazil-take-steps-to-halt-donkey-trade-dealing-supply-blow-to-chinese-ejiao-medicine-675578">Africa, Brazil take steps to halt donkey trade in major blow to supplies for Chinese ejiao medicine</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/01/402987-the-battle-for-kyiv-2024-01-01t171229679.png?imwidth=3840" />

The donkey skin trade, crucial for China's traditional medicine ejiao, faces challenges as the African Union and Brazil move towards banning the slaughter and export of donkeys, affecting a key supply source for China's booming industry.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-declares-canada-based-gangster-goldy-brar-a-terrorist-675628">India declares Canada-based gangster Goldy Brar a terrorist</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/01/403017-untitled-design-6.png?imwidth=3840" />

The Indian government on Monday (Jan 1) declared Canada-based Goldy Brar as a terrorist under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). According to a report by the news agency ANI, Brar was charged under the UAPA for his involvement in the smuggling of high-grade arms, ammunition, and explosive materials through drones from across the border and supplying thereon for carrying out killings and also providing sharpshooters.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/all-india-pregnant-job-service-scam-bihar-police-arrest-eight-for-luring-men-to-impregnate-women-675638">All India Pregnant Job Service scam: Bihar police arrest eight for luring men to impregnate women</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/01/403021-thequint2017-02304362fc-af4f-4969-ab1e-0ee052ea6b61c74829fe-9fc9-48d6-b953-15c2435a8614.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

Police in India’s Bihar state arrested eight individuals over the weekend for allegedly luring men into a fraudulent scheme involving impregnating women who were not able to conceive with their partners. The eight scammers ran their racket under the name of "All India Pregnant Job Service."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-nobel-peace-laureate-muhammad-yunus-convicted-of-violating-labour-laws-675599">Bangladesh: Nobel peace laureate Muhammad Yunus convicted of violating labour laws</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/01/402992-muhammad-yunus.png?imwidth=3840" />

Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel peace laureate, was convicted on Monday (Jan 1) of violating Bangladesh's labour laws, news agency AFP reported citing a prosecutor.&nbsp;

Prosecutor Khurshid Alam Khan told AFP, "Professor Yunus and three of his Grameen Telecom colleagues were convicted under labour laws and sentenced to six months in simple imprisonment". Khan added that all four were immediately granted bail pending appeals.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/estonia-starting-new-years-day-same-sex-couples-can-now-get-legally-married-675620">Estonia: Starting New Year’s day, same-sex couples can now get legally married</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/01/403012-the-battle-for-kyiv-2024-01-01t191321419.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

As of January 1, 2024, Estonia has embraced a groundbreaking legal shift, officially recognising and legalising same-sex marriage. This historic move allows any two consenting adults, irrespective of gender, to enter into marriage, marking a significant departure from previous legal frameworks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-gujarat-welcomes-2024-by-performing-mass-surya-namaskar-yoga-pose-sets-world-record-watch-675595">India’s Gujarat welcomes 2024 by performing mass Surya Namaskar, sets world record. Watch</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/01/402999-the-battle-for-kyiv-2024-01-01t180023540.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

Gujarat made an indelible mark in the Guinness Book of World Records by showcasing&nbsp;a momentous event on New Year's morning – the largest simultaneous Surya Namaskar performance.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In the latest, many countries and cities including Pakistan and Sharjah, refrained from celebrating New Year's due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. In other news, the Indian government declared Canada-based Goldy Brar as a terrorist under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

In the latest, many countries and cities including Pakistan and Sharjah, refrained from celebrating New Year's due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. In other news, the Indian government declared Canada-based Goldy Brar as a terrorist under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Separately, same-sex couples can legally get married in Estonia starting Jan 1. Click on the headlines to read more. Powerful earthquake jolts Japan: Indian Embassy sets up emergency control room post Indian Embassy in Japan has set up an emergency control room in the aftermath of a powerful earthquake and tsunami warning in the country on Monday (Jan 1). Certain countries cancelled New Year celebrations due to Gaza war As the world welcomed the year 2024 early Monday (Jan 1), certain countries and cities did not celebrate New Year due to the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. According to reports, Pakistan and Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) banned New Year celebrations. In Iraq, many Christians cancelled their festivities due to the conflict, a report by PBS Newshour said. Cytisine pill proves effective against smoking addiction, gains approval in UK Doctors have revealed that smokers trying to quit have over double the chance of success when using a pill that reduces nicotine cravings. This medication, cytisine, derived from laburnum seeds, could be a pivotal tool in helping people to overcome smoking addiction. Explained | Nicaragua’s role in US migrant crisis amid France plane row In late December last year, an Airbus A340 bound for Nicaragua was detained in France over concerns that it was part of a human trafficking scheme. Operated by Romanian company Legend Airlines, the aircraft was held at Vatry airport, east of Paris, where it had stopped for refuelling. It had arrived from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and had 303 passengers of Indian nationality. Eleven minors were among the passengers. Ukrainian shelling in Moscow-held Donetsk on New Year's Eve, four killed Russian-installed authorities on Monday (Jan 1) claimed that Ukrainian shelling of the Moscow-held city of Donetsk on New Year's Eve killed four people and wounded 13. In a video on Telegram, the Russian-installed head of Donetsk Denis Pushilin said: "As a result of Ukrainian shelling of central Donetsk on New Year's Eve we can say that there are four dead and 13 wounded." Africa, Brazil take steps to halt donkey trade in major blow to supplies for Chinese ejiao medicine The donkey skin trade, crucial for China's traditional medicine ejiao, faces challenges as the African Union and Brazil move towards banning the slaughter and export of donkeys, affecting a key supply source for China's booming industry. India declares Canada-based gangster Goldy Brar a terrorist The Indian government on Monday (Jan 1) declared Canada-based Goldy Brar as a terrorist under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). According to a report by the news agency ANI, Brar was charged under the UAPA for his involvement in the smuggling of high-grade arms, ammunition, and explosive materials through drones from across the border and supplying thereon for carrying out killings and also providing sharpshooters. All India Pregnant Job Service scam: Bihar police arrest eight for luring men to impregnate women Police in India’s Bihar state arrested eight individuals over the weekend for allegedly luring men into a fraudulent scheme involving impregnating women who were not able to conceive with their partners. The eight scammers ran their racket under the name of "All India Pregnant Job Service." Bangladesh: Nobel peace laureate Muhammad Yunus convicted of violating labour laws Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel peace laureate, was convicted on Monday (Jan 1) of violating Bangladesh's labour laws, news agency AFP reported citing a prosecutor. Prosecutor Khurshid Alam Khan told AFP, "Professor Yunus and three of his Grameen Telecom colleagues were convicted under labour laws and sentenced to six months in simple imprisonment". Khan added that all four were immediately granted bail pending appeals. Estonia: Starting New Year’s day, same-sex couples can now get legally married As of January 1, 2024, Estonia has embraced a groundbreaking legal shift, officially recognising and legalising same-sex marriage. This historic move allows any two consenting adults, irrespective of gender, to enter into marriage, marking a significant departure from previous legal frameworks. India’s Gujarat welcomes 2024 by performing mass Surya Namaskar, sets world record. Watch Gujarat made an indelible mark in the Guinness Book of World Records by showcasing a momentous event on New Year's morning – the largest simultaneous Surya Namaskar performance.

Top 10 world news: Goldy Brar declared terrorist by India, Ram Lalla idol selection process complete, and more

Red Sea crisis: At least 10 Houthi rebels killed in Red Sea. The US Navy has destroyed Houthi "small boats" whose crew attempted to board a container ship in the Red Sea.

U.S. warship shoots down drone, missile fired by Houthis

A police sergeant in New York fatally shot his wife and their two sons before dying by suicide, a report by the news agency Associated Press on Sunday (Dec 31, 2023) said.

A police sergeant in New York fatally shot his wife and their two sons before dying by suicide, a report by the news agency Associated Press on Sunday (Dec 31, 2023) said. As per the report, police said that 49-year-old Watson Morgan, a sergeant with the Bronxville Police Department, killed his wife, Ornela Morgan, 43, and their sons aged 10 and 12 before taking his own life. The four bodies were discovered by police just after midnight on Friday at the family’s home in the New City suburb of New York City after Morgan failed to show up for his evening shift at work. Handgun recovered at crime scene Upon investigation at the Morgan family home, the police discovered a handgun at the crime scene. All four victims had gunshot wounds. In a statement released last Friday, Bronxville Police Chief Christopher Satriale said the killings left the department with “profoundly broken hearts at the senseless loss of innocent lives.” “Our hearts go out to Sergeant Morgan’s extended family,” he said. “Our thoughts and prayers are also with his Bronxville Police Department family,” Satriale added. Watson started career in 2000, became sergeant 16 yrs later Watson became a cop with the New York Police Department in 2000 before joining the force in Bronxville in 2007. In 2016, he was promoted to the rank of sergeant. According to a report by the New York Post, a neighbour of the Morgans described them as the “textbook, perfect American family.” “I never in a million years would expect [he] would do something like this," the neighbour said. “The kids were always out here playing outside, and their mom was just the sweetest person you ever met,” she added. (With inputs from agencies)

US: New York City cop kills wife, sons before dying by suicide

The much-watched and trusted U.S. Jobs data this week is expected to show healthy employment growth at the end of December. This underscores views of steady economic growth and waning inflation in 2024.

US Economy: Steady growth & waning inflation in 2024

The world has entered 2024... From policymakers to the general public, everyone is hoping for a stable and growing economy this year. In this report, we tell you five big things that are likely to shape the global economy in 2024.

2024 could be make-or-break year for global economy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a resolute New Year's address on Sunday (Dec 31), pledged to unleash formidable "wrath" against Russian forces throughout 2024. The leader of the war-torn nation vowed this, undeterred by what he said were attempts to "undermine" support for Kyiv.

On the other hand, Russian President Vladimir Putin's New Year's Eve address was notably scaled back compared to last year,&nbsp;and was also devoid of any mention of the conflict in Ukraine.

<h2>'Our real wrath'</h2>

Zelesnky's declaration, as per AFP, comes less than 72 hours after an aerial assault by Moscow on Ukrainian cities. The barrage of missiles and drones resulted in 39 casualties, marking&nbsp;one of the biggest aerial attacks since Russia invaded Ukraine.

In the televised address, Zelensky promised a substantial increase in Ukraine's military capabilities in the upcoming year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-launches-missiles-and-drone-strikes-on-kharkiv-after-belgorod-terrorist-attack-675323">Russia launches missiles and drone strikes on Kharkiv after Belgorod 'terrorist attack'</a>

"Next year, the enemy will feel the wrath of domestic production," he said. His televised address was accompanied by clips of Ukrainian artillery and fighter jets.

He said that the nation will bolster its arsenal with at least "a million" additional drones and F-16 fighter jets, delivered by Kyiv's Western allies.&nbsp;

"Our pilots are already mastering F-16 jets, and we will definitely see them in our skies," said the Ukrainian President, adding, "So that our enemies can certainly see what our real wrath is."

<h2>Third year of the Ukraine war</h2>

As the Ukraine war enters into its third calendar year — it began on Feb 24, 2022, with Putin announcing a "special military operation" into Ukraine — Zelensky implored Western allies to maintain steadfast support, especially in the face of mounting signs of war fatigue.

"The major result of the year, its main achievement: Ukraine has become stronger. Ukrainians have become stronger," said Zelensky as footage of cities under attack and Kyiv's meetings with&nbsp;western allies played.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-welcomes-new-year-wraps-2023-a-year-defined-by-wars-and-climate-crisis-675386">World welcomes new year, wraps 2023 — a year defined by wars and climate crises</a>

"When, at the beginning of 2023 … we surmounted, without exaggeration, the most difficult winter in history. When we proved that Ukrainians are tougher than cold and darkness. Stronger than power outages and blackout threats."

"Ukrainians are stronger than any intrigues, any attempts to diminish global solidarity, to undermine the coalition of our allies," he said.

Despite receiving substantial support, Ukraine encountered difficulties in achieving a breakthrough during its 2023 counteroffensive against the invading Russian forces. Moscow, meanwhile, escalated pressure along the front lines, capturing the eastern town of Marinka in December and intensifying efforts to control Kupiansk in the northeast.

On the other hand, refraining from mentioning Ukraine by name, Russian President Putin in his New Year's speech said: "To everyone who is at a combat post, at the forefront of the fight for truth and justice: You are our heroes, our hearts are with you. We are proud of you, we admire your courage."

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a resolute New Year's address on Sunday (Dec 31), pledged to unleash formidable "wrath" against Russian forces throughout 2024.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a resolute New Year's address on Sunday (Dec 31), pledged to unleash formidable "wrath" against Russian forces throughout 2024. The leader of the war-torn nation vowed this, undeterred by what he said were attempts to "undermine" support for Kyiv. On the other hand, Russian President Vladimir Putin's New Year's Eve address was notably scaled back compared to last year, and was also devoid of any mention of the conflict in Ukraine. 'Our real wrath' Zelesnky's declaration, as per AFP, comes less than 72 hours after an aerial assault by Moscow on Ukrainian cities. The barrage of missiles and drones resulted in 39 casualties, marking one of the biggest aerial attacks since Russia invaded Ukraine. In the televised address, Zelensky promised a substantial increase in Ukraine's military capabilities in the upcoming year. Also read | Russia launches missiles and drone strikes on Kharkiv after Belgorod 'terrorist attack' "Next year, the enemy will feel the wrath of domestic production," he said. His televised address was accompanied by clips of Ukrainian artillery and fighter jets. He said that the nation will bolster its arsenal with at least "a million" additional drones and F-16 fighter jets, delivered by Kyiv's Western allies. "Our pilots are already mastering F-16 jets, and we will definitely see them in our skies," said the Ukrainian President, adding, "So that our enemies can certainly see what our real wrath is." Third year of the Ukraine war As the Ukraine war enters into its third calendar year — it began on Feb 24, 2022, with Putin announcing a "special military operation" into Ukraine — Zelensky implored Western allies to maintain steadfast support, especially in the face of mounting signs of war fatigue. "The major result of the year, its main achievement: Ukraine has become stronger. Ukrainians have become stronger," said Zelensky as footage of cities under attack and Kyiv's meetings with western allies played. Also read | World welcomes new year, wraps 2023 — a year defined by wars and climate crises "When, at the beginning of 2023 … we surmounted, without exaggeration, the most difficult winter in history. When we proved that Ukrainians are tougher than cold and darkness. Stronger than power outages and blackout threats." "Ukrainians are stronger than any intrigues, any attempts to diminish global solidarity, to undermine the coalition of our allies," he said. Despite receiving substantial support, Ukraine encountered difficulties in achieving a breakthrough during its 2023 counteroffensive against the invading Russian forces. Moscow, meanwhile, escalated pressure along the front lines, capturing the eastern town of Marinka in December and intensifying efforts to control Kupiansk in the northeast. On the other hand, refraining from mentioning Ukraine by name, Russian President Putin in his New Year's speech said: "To everyone who is at a combat post, at the forefront of the fight for truth and justice: You are our heroes, our hearts are with you. We are proud of you, we admire your courage." (With inputs from agencies)

'Ukraine has become stronger': Zelensky vows to unleash 'wrath' against Russia in 2024

The Indian government has constituted the 16th Finance Commission under the provisions of the constitution.

India's noted economist Arvind Panagariya gets a new role

Houthis have fired at American choppers in Red Sea. American troops have sunk three Houthi boats. 10 Houthi fighters died in the exchange of fire. Iran's warship is now in the Red Sea. UK, U.S. are reportedly planning to attack targets in Yemen. Is West Asia staring at a full-blown war?

Iran's warship enters Red Sea's key shipping route

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday (Dec 31) said that China would "surely be reunified" during his address to the nation marking the new year, in a direct threat to annex Taiwan.&nbsp;

"All Chinese on both sides of the Taiwan Strait should be bound by a common sense of purpose and share in the glory of the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation," said Xi, as reported by state news agency Xinhua&nbsp;

He further said that the Chinese economy had become "more resilient and dynamic" in the year 2023 even though the financial figures continue to disenchant post-COVID-19.

Xi on state broadcaster CCTV said that the economy had "weathered the storm" and become "more resilient and dynamic than before".

He also lauded the promotion of "high-quality development" and emerging industries such as electric vehicles, lithium batteries and solar panels.&nbsp;

He said next year "We must consolidate and enhance the positive trend of economic recovery, and achieve long-term economic stability".

Yet he also acknowledged a few&nbsp;hardships, saying "Some companies are facing operating pressure (and) some people are encountering difficulties in employment and living conditions".

"All of these things concern me greatly," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-we-will-never-back-down-in-new-years-eve-address-675304">Putin says 'we will never back down' in New Year's Eve address</a>

"Our goal is both ambitious and yet very simple. In the end, it is to help people live better lives."

<h2>'Motherland will surely be reunified', says Xi</h2>

During his Sunday speech, Xi said that "the motherland will surely be reunified".&nbsp;

"Compatriots on both sides of the (Taiwan) Strait should be bound by a common sense of purpose to share in the glory of national rejuvenation," he said.&nbsp;

Previously, Xi has said that China would never rule out the move to exert force in order to bring Taiwan under its control.

<h2>Xi sends greetings to Putin</h2>

Earlier on Sunday, Xi also extended New Year greetings to Russian President Vladimir Putin hailing the move to strengthen ties with Moscow in the year 2023, as per an official readout from the foreign ministry.&nbsp;

Xi said, "The material and public opinion foundation of our relationship has become stronger", according to CCTV.

"In the face of changes unseen in a century and a turbulent regional and international situation, China-Russia relations have maintained healthy and stable development and moved steadily in the right direction," Xi said.

"Under our joint leadership, political mutual trust between the two sides has further deepened, strategic coordination has drawn closer, and mutually beneficial cooperation has continued to achieve new results," he was quoted as saying.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday (Dec 31) said that China would "surely be reunified" during his address to the nation marking the new year, in a direct threat to annex Taiwan.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday (Dec 31) said that China would "surely be reunified" during his address to the nation marking the new year, in a direct threat to annex Taiwan. "All Chinese on both sides of the Taiwan Strait should be bound by a common sense of purpose and share in the glory of the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation," said Xi, as reported by state news agency Xinhua He further said that the Chinese economy had become "more resilient and dynamic" in the year 2023 even though the financial figures continue to disenchant post-COVID-19. Xi on state broadcaster CCTV said that the economy had "weathered the storm" and become "more resilient and dynamic than before". He also lauded the promotion of "high-quality development" and emerging industries such as electric vehicles, lithium batteries and solar panels. He said next year "We must consolidate and enhance the positive trend of economic recovery, and achieve long-term economic stability". Yet he also acknowledged a few hardships, saying "Some companies are facing operating pressure (and) some people are encountering difficulties in employment and living conditions". "All of these things concern me greatly," he said. Also read: Putin says 'we will never back down' in New Year's Eve address "Our goal is both ambitious and yet very simple. In the end, it is to help people live better lives." 'Motherland will surely be reunified', says Xi During his Sunday speech, Xi said that "the motherland will surely be reunified". "Compatriots on both sides of the (Taiwan) Strait should be bound by a common sense of purpose to share in the glory of national rejuvenation," he said. Previously, Xi has said that China would never rule out the move to exert force in order to bring Taiwan under its control. Xi sends greetings to Putin Earlier on Sunday, Xi also extended New Year greetings to Russian President Vladimir Putin hailing the move to strengthen ties with Moscow in the year 2023, as per an official readout from the foreign ministry. Xi said, "The material and public opinion foundation of our relationship has become stronger", according to CCTV. "In the face of changes unseen in a century and a turbulent regional and international situation, China-Russia relations have maintained healthy and stable development and moved steadily in the right direction," Xi said. "Under our joint leadership, political mutual trust between the two sides has further deepened, strategic coordination has drawn closer, and mutually beneficial cooperation has continued to achieve new results," he was quoted as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

Xi Jinping makes most direct threat so far to annex Taiwan in New Year's speech

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on 1 January launched its first mission of the year 2024.

ISRO launches XPoSat satellite to study black holes

The government data obtained by CBS News revealed that the United States immigration officials on the southern border expect to process more than 300,000 migrants in December alone, which is an all-time monthly high. The report said that it will likely include a record number of families travelling with children.&nbsp;

This came amid reports emerged that migrants amassed at the US southern border with Mexico as officials from both countries agreed to work together more closely to tackle record migration at their shared border.&nbsp;

The migrants gathered behind barbed wire set up by the state of Texas and patrolled by the Texas National Guard. They were to be processed.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dozens-dead-in-week-of-burkina-attacks-security-sources-675377">'Dozens' dead in week of Burkina attacks: Security sources</a>&nbsp;

Following US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to Mexico, the countries agreed to strengthen a sponsorship project for Venezuelan, Cuban, Nicaraguan, and Haitian migrants while also addressing the core causes of migration. The negotiations came after the US temporarily closed some border crossings in order to redeploy agents to enforcement.&nbsp;

The CBS News report highlighted how the massive number of migrant arrivals this month put a strain on both sides. The situation has stranded tens of thousands of migrants and spurred politicians to consider severely restricting asylum.&nbsp;

The report mentioned that US Border Patrol agents are on course to take into custody a quarter of a million migrants who entered the country illegally at the Mexican border in December.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-sunak-at-centre-of-tory-breakdown-over-secret-election-talks-with-dominic-cummings-675371">UK PM Sunak at centre of Tory breakdown over 'secret election talks' with Dominic Cummings</a>&nbsp;

Meanwhile, other officials at ports are expected to process roughly 50,000 new arrivals under a Biden administration appointment system. The data has posed a significant political vulnerability for President Joe Biden as he seeks re-election.&nbsp;

This is the first time, as monthly statistics dating back to the fiscal year 2000 showed that the US Customs and Border Protection has never processed that many migrants along the southern border in one month.&nbsp;

As reported, the preliminary Department of Homeland Security (DHS) statistics showed that Border Patrol personnel processed approximately 235,000 migrants till December 28. They crossed the southern border unlawfully between ports of entry. If current trends continue, Border Patrol will report over 260,000 apprehensions this month, which is a record high.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The government data obtained by CBS News revealed that the United States immigration officials on the southern border expect to process more than 300,000 migrants in December alone, which is an all-time monthly high.

The government data obtained by CBS News revealed that the United States immigration officials on the southern border expect to process more than 300,000 migrants in December alone, which is an all-time monthly high. The report said that it will likely include a record number of families travelling with children. This came amid reports emerged that migrants amassed at the US southern border with Mexico as officials from both countries agreed to work together more closely to tackle record migration at their shared border. The migrants gathered behind barbed wire set up by the state of Texas and patrolled by the Texas National Guard. They were to be processed. Also read: 'Dozens' dead in week of Burkina attacks: Security sources Following US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to Mexico, the countries agreed to strengthen a sponsorship project for Venezuelan, Cuban, Nicaraguan, and Haitian migrants while also addressing the core causes of migration. The negotiations came after the US temporarily closed some border crossings in order to redeploy agents to enforcement. The CBS News report highlighted how the massive number of migrant arrivals this month put a strain on both sides. The situation has stranded tens of thousands of migrants and spurred politicians to consider severely restricting asylum. The report mentioned that US Border Patrol agents are on course to take into custody a quarter of a million migrants who entered the country illegally at the Mexican border in December. Also read: UK PM Sunak at centre of Tory breakdown over 'secret election talks' with Dominic Cummings Meanwhile, other officials at ports are expected to process roughly 50,000 new arrivals under a Biden administration appointment system. The data has posed a significant political vulnerability for President Joe Biden as he seeks re-election. This is the first time, as monthly statistics dating back to the fiscal year 2000 showed that the US Customs and Border Protection has never processed that many migrants along the southern border in one month. As reported, the preliminary Department of Homeland Security (DHS) statistics showed that Border Patrol personnel processed approximately 235,000 migrants till December 28. They crossed the southern border unlawfully between ports of entry. If current trends continue, Border Patrol will report over 260,000 apprehensions this month, which is a record high. (With inputs from agencies)

US border officials to process a record 300,000 migrants in December: Report

Russian-installed authorities on Monday (Jan 1) claimed that Ukrainian shelling of the Moscow-held city of Donetsk on New Year's Eve killed four people and wounded 13.&nbsp;

In a video on Telegram, the Russian-installed head of Donetsk Denis Pushilin said: "As a result of Ukrainian shelling of central Donetsk on New Year's Eve we can say that there are four dead and 13 wounded."&nbsp;

The attack hit the Voroshilov district in central Donetsk, Pushilin said further accusing Ukraine of "having an aim to cause as much harm as possible to the civilian population because it used cluster munitions".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-personally-ordered-belgorod-attack-claims-russian-state-media-675579">Zelensky personally ordered Belgorod attack, claims Russian state media</a>&nbsp;

He added that Ukraine used cluster munitions. The US has supplied Kyiv with cluster munitions, in a move that was criticised even by its own allies. Cluster munitions are a controversial weapon designed to disperse or release tiny explosives. They explode mid-air and scatter bomblets over a wide area, and also pose a lasting threat.&nbsp;

Moscow hit Ukrainian cities on New Year's Eve, with Kyiv saying it had foiled a "record" number of drones launched by Russia.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-nicaraguas-role-in-us-migrant-crisis-amid-france-plane-row-675603">Explained: Nicaragua's role in US migrant crisis amid France plane row</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Russia will 'intensify' attacks&nbsp;</h2>

<meta name="uuid" content="uuidOnLw9SeBagU0" /><meta charset="utf-8" />

The report came on the same day when Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Moscow will intensify strikes on military targets in Ukraine after an unprecedented attack over the weekend on the Russian city of Belgorod.&nbsp;

The attack killed 24 people and left over 100 wounded in Belgorod on Saturday. It came after Moscow launched a large-scale attack on Ukrainian cities. &nbsp;

"We're going to intensify the strikes, no crime against civilians will rest unpunished, that's for certain," Putin said Monday during a visit to a military hospital.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russian-installed authorities on Monday (Jan 1) claimed that Ukrainian shelling of the Moscow-held city of Donetsk on New Year's Eve killed four people and wounded 13.

Russian-installed authorities on Monday (Jan 1) claimed that Ukrainian shelling of the Moscow-held city of Donetsk on New Year's Eve killed four people and wounded 13. In a video on Telegram, the Russian-installed head of Donetsk Denis Pushilin said: "As a result of Ukrainian shelling of central Donetsk on New Year's Eve we can say that there are four dead and 13 wounded." The attack hit the Voroshilov district in central Donetsk, Pushilin said further accusing Ukraine of "having an aim to cause as much harm as possible to the civilian population because it used cluster munitions". Also read: Zelensky personally ordered Belgorod attack, claims Russian state media He added that Ukraine used cluster munitions. The US has supplied Kyiv with cluster munitions, in a move that was criticised even by its own allies. Cluster munitions are a controversial weapon designed to disperse or release tiny explosives. They explode mid-air and scatter bomblets over a wide area, and also pose a lasting threat. Moscow hit Ukrainian cities on New Year's Eve, with Kyiv saying it had foiled a "record" number of drones launched by Russia. Also read: Explained: Nicaragua's role in US migrant crisis amid France plane row Russia will 'intensify' attacks The report came on the same day when Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Moscow will intensify strikes on military targets in Ukraine after an unprecedented attack over the weekend on the Russian city of Belgorod. The attack killed 24 people and left over 100 wounded in Belgorod on Saturday. It came after Moscow launched a large-scale attack on Ukrainian cities. "We're going to intensify the strikes, no crime against civilians will rest unpunished, that's for certain," Putin said Monday during a visit to a military hospital. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Four killed in Ukrainian shelling in Moscow-held Donetsk on New Year’s Eve

China's "reunification" with Taiwan is inevitable, President Xi Jinping said in his New Year's address on Sunday, striking a stronger tone than he did last year with less than two weeks to go before the Chinese-claimed island elects a new leader.

Days before Taiwanese elections, Xi Jinping reiterates reunification bid

Russian strikes come a day after deadliest attack in Belgorod. Ukraine downs drones as Russia retaliates for Belgorod attacks.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russia strikes military facilities in Kharkiv

Taylor Swift's '1989 Taylor's version' reigns again as Taylor Swift breaks Elvis Presley's record as solo artist. The singer-songwriter enjoys most weeks at no. 1 on album chart. Watch the video to get more insights!

Taylor Swift breaks Elvis Presley's record

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