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Thousands of people gathered in Serbia's capital city Belgrade on Saturday (Dec 30), protesting over the results of the parliamentary and municipal elections on Dec 17.

Thousands of people gathered in Serbia's capital city Belgrade on Saturday (Dec 30), protesting over the results of the parliamentary and municipal elections on Dec 17. The ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) won 46.72 per cent of the votes in the parliamentary election and was declared the winner. Serbia Against Violence came second in the election with 23.56 per cent of the vote. The Socialist Party of Serbia was third with 6.56 per cent. According to a report by the news agency Reuters on Saturday, Serbia Against Violence, which has led protests since Dec 17, accused the SNS of widespread vote fraud. During the protest in a square in central Belgrade, Serbia Against Violence leader Marinika Tepic demanded an annulment of the Dec 17 vote. "I'm sorry that I can't, and I don't have much to tell you. The only thing I can (say) is that I have already said everything and that these elections must be annulled," said Tepic, who has been on a hunger strike since Dec 18. She was cheered on by protestors waving Serbian flags. 'Freedom and democracy belong to Belgrade' Speaking to Reuters, a protestor named Katarina Popovic said, "I expect us to send a signal, a sign that Belgrade is ours, that Belgrade is free. They took it away from us, but we won't give it away. Whether we will succeed this time, we don't know. Maybe we need one more day, ten days, and a hundred days, but we will not give up Belgrade. Freedom, and democracy - this is something that belongs to Belgrade." Also read: Serbia: Riot police use ‘excessive force’ to repel protesters alleging election fraud "If one feels that something is not right, then one casts a vote to disagree with what is wrong, that is what we can do - not to take the side of what we think is wrong. One day, our children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren will see who said what at which moment in history and where they were," another protestor told the news agency. Oppn demands international probe of vote The opposition has demanded an international investigation of the vote after representatives of several global watchdogs reported multiple irregularities, including cases of vote-buying and ballot box stuffing, the news agency Associated Press reported. Local election monitors alleged that voters from across Serbia and neighbouring countries were registered and abused in to casting ballots. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and the SNS have rejected these allegations as fabricated. President Vucic has said the elections were fair and his party won and accused the opposition of inciting violent protests to overthrow the government on instructions from abroad. Opposition leaders have, however, denied this. On Saturday, Deputy Prime Minister Milos Vucevic said the “small number of demonstrators” at the rally in Belgrade showed that “people don’t want them (the opposition.)” (With inputs from agencies)

Serbia: Thousands protest over election results; oppn demands annulment of vote

Three years after ditching the European Union under the Brexit campaign, a clear majority of the British people now regret the decision. A new poll by the Opinium agency has found that most of the people in the UK now blame Brexit for swelling inflation, the government’s inability to crack down on illegal immigration and the worsening health sector.

<h2>Staggering revelations</h2>

According to the poll, which took into consideration the opinion of 2,000 voters, only 10 per cent of people believed Brexit has helped their finances, while 35 per cent say the exact opposite.&nbsp;

Only 9 per cent of people believe the country’s health services have improved, despite promises that leaving the EU would bring back £350m a week into the NHS (National Health Service). A whopping 47 per cent of people said the NHS had worsened over the past three years.

On inflation, just 7 per cent of people said Brexit helped keep prices down, while 63 per cent of them said the&nbsp;opposite and blamed it for the skyrocketing cost of living.

In general, just 22 per cent of voters said Brexit has been good for their nation.

<h2>Hefty promises not fulfilled</h2>

The bleak response from the British public reflects the fact that most of the promises offered to them during the 2016 referendum are yet to be fulfilled, while Brexit’s side effects are glaringly visible.

Watch:&nbsp;UK inflation: Post Brexit trade ties with the rest of the Europe shrinking

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Pro-Brexit campaigners had said Brexit would give the UK more say in bilateral trade deals, thus driving up trade and investments. But a majority of the people still believe Brexit has been bad for their country’s overall trade.

<h2>‘Brexit still not top poll issue’</h2>

Despite having affected the UK’s population directly over the three years, experts believe Brexit is not going to be the top poll issue in the 2024 general elections.

James Crouch, head of policy and public affairs at Opinium, was quoted as saying by the Guardian, “More than half (53%) of leave voters now think that Brexit has been bad for the UK’s ability to control immigration, piling even more pressure on an issue the government is vulnerable on.”&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brexit-deal-will-be-majorly-rewritten-if-labour-is-elected-claims-keir-starmer-637003">Also read:&nbsp;Brexit deal will be majorly rewritten if Labour is elected, says leader Keir Starmer</a>

“Despite this, Brexit is likely to be a secondary issue at the next election compared to the state of the economy and the NHS, which are the clear priority for voters,” he adds.

(With inputs from agencies)

Three years after ditching the European Union under the Brexit campaign, a clear majority of the British people now regret the decision. A new poll by the Opinium agency has found that most of the people in the UK now blame Brexit for swelling inflation, the government’s inability to crack down on illegal immigration and the worsening health sector.

Three years after ditching the European Union under the Brexit campaign, a clear majority of the British people now regret the decision. A new poll by the Opinium agency has found that most of the people in the UK now blame Brexit for swelling inflation, the government’s inability to crack down on illegal immigration and the worsening health sector. Staggering revelations According to the poll, which took into consideration the opinion of 2,000 voters, only 10 per cent of people believed Brexit has helped their finances, while 35 per cent say the exact opposite. Only 9 per cent of people believe the country’s health services have improved, despite promises that leaving the EU would bring back £350m a week into the NHS (National Health Service). A whopping 47 per cent of people said the NHS had worsened over the past three years. On inflation, just 7 per cent of people said Brexit helped keep prices down, while 63 per cent of them said the opposite and blamed it for the skyrocketing cost of living. In general, just 22 per cent of voters said Brexit has been good for their nation. Hefty promises not fulfilled The bleak response from the British public reflects the fact that most of the promises offered to them during the 2016 referendum are yet to be fulfilled, while Brexit’s side effects are glaringly visible. Watch: UK inflation: Post Brexit trade ties with the rest of the Europe shrinking × Pro-Brexit campaigners had said Brexit would give the UK more say in bilateral trade deals, thus driving up trade and investments. But a majority of the people still believe Brexit has been bad for their country’s overall trade. ‘Brexit still not top poll issue’ Despite having affected the UK’s population directly over the three years, experts believe Brexit is not going to be the top poll issue in the 2024 general elections. James Crouch, head of policy and public affairs at Opinium, was quoted as saying by the Guardian, “More than half (53%) of leave voters now think that Brexit has been bad for the UK’s ability to control immigration, piling even more pressure on an issue the government is vulnerable on.” Also read: Brexit deal will be majorly rewritten if Labour is elected, says leader Keir Starmer “Despite this, Brexit is likely to be a secondary issue at the next election compared to the state of the economy and the NHS, which are the clear priority for voters,” he adds. (With inputs from agencies)

Majority of Britons regretting Brexit as inflation soars, trade crumbles: Poll

Ukraine's military estimates that Russia fired 158 missiles and drones and 114 of them were destroyed. The attacks, which also saw a Russian missile passing through polish airspace, triggered international condemnation and fresh promises of military support to Ukraine.

Russia-Ukraine war: Russian airstrikes kill 30 across Ukraine

UNICEF has reported that at least a thousand children in Gaza have had their limbs amputated without anaesthesia since the War began on October 7th. The United Nations body added that the continued shelling of Gaza would mean greenlighting the killing of more children.

Israel-Hamas war | UNICEF: 'Gaza the most dangerous place to be a child'

2023 saw several disasters and it doesn't seem to be ending well for some regions in the world. Talking about heavy rainfall that has battered California, Peru and Germany, keep watching to know more.

Climate Disasters in the year 2023

India-Canada Khalistan row India's Ministry of Home Affairs has declared Canada-based gangster Lakhbir Singh Landa an individual terrorist. According to Indian security agencies, 33-year-old gangster belongs to a khalistani group. Watch to know more.

Indian Ministry of Home Affairs declares Lakhbir Singh Landa a terrorist

French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Friday (Dec 29) that his government would tighten security for New Year celebrations in France due to a 'very high' terror threat, news agency Reuters reported.

French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Friday (Dec 29) that his government would tighten security for New Year celebrations in France due to a 'very high' terror threat, news agency Reuters reported. "I called for an extremely strong mobilisation of the police and gendarmerie services against the backdrop of a very high terrorist threat. Of course, because of what is happening in Israel and Palestine," Interior Minister Darmanin told reporters. Darmanin added that he had asked for the mobilisation of more than 90,000 police and gendarmes, plus 5,000 soldiers from Operation Sentinelle. " There will also be tens of thousands of firefighters, as the Sécurité Civile will be particularly mobilised," he said. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Biden, Hamas, and different degrees of empathy "We (will) have around ten National Gendarmerie helicopters that fly all over the country, helping the police to carry out what we call manoeuvres, spotting problems and helping the police to intervene. But also, and this is something completely new for 31 December, we'll be flying drones, which proved highly effective during the Rugby World Cup, as well as in the fight against urban violence. So a lot of airborne resources are provided for by law," the minister further said. A growing risk of attacks by extremists The French interior minister's remarks comes amid growing risk of extremist attacks not just in France, but the whole of Europe since the war between Israel and Hamas started on October 7. Nearly a week into the conflict, a high school teacher in France's Arras was stabbed by a former student who claimed he was a member of the Islamic State (IS). The attacker also made a marginal reference to the Israel-Hamas war before stabbing 57-year-old Dominique Bernard of the Lycee Gambetta High School. On Dec 2, a 26-year-old French national upset over the conflict attacked tourists near the Eiffel Tower. The attacker, a male, attacked a tourist couple with a knife on the Quai de Grenelle, mortally wounding a German national. he then attacked two other people with a hammer after being chased by the police and getting arrested. Interior Minister Darmanin said the man was upset about the Gaza war and Muslims dying in Afghanistan and Palestine. Also watch: Israel-Palestine war: Is a global jihad emerging against the West? | Dark World × The 26-year-old had been sentenced to four years in prison in 2016 for planning another attack. He was on the French security services' watch list, and was also known for having psychiatric disorders, Darmanin added. (With inputs from agencies)

France to tighten security for New Year celebrations due to 'very high' terror threat

Israel has indicated no signs of scaling down its offensive in Gaza. Israeli leaders have once again reiterated that fighting will end only with the elimination of Hamas. Hamas says at least 187 died across Gaza on Friday in Israeli shelling.

Israel-Hamas war | 187 killed across Gaza in past 24 hours: Hamas-run Health Ministry

Chinese leader Xi Jinping was seen doing away with his pursed lips and feigned smile twice this year. First in July, when a 100-year-old <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/dubious-strategist-ruthless-diplomat-south-asian-loser-kissingers-bull-run-was-stopped-by-indian-defiance-664604">Henry Kissinger</a>, the controversial US foreign policy wizard and architect of US-China ties visited Beijing. Secondly, in October during a summit in Beijing to celebrate 10 years of the Belt and Road Initiative, China's ambitious transcontinental trade project mired in accusations of exploitative practices.

Xi frequently broke into an uncharacteristic chuckle and threw expressions of diplomatic affection with Kissinger, who is credited with bringing China out of isolation in the 1970s.&nbsp;<img alt="China's President Xi Jinping (R) speaks with former US secretary of state Henry Kissinger" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2728c580-b473-483f-90a5-855ee278e27a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-12-29T213550.658.png" />

China's President Xi Jinping with former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger during a meeting in Beijing on July 20, 2023 | AFP

But while a smiling Xi was "very glad to see" Kissinger in July 2023, the visit came in the backdrop of the 21st-century contest between Washington and Beijing for semiconductors,&nbsp;dubbed the 'Chip Wars'.&nbsp;

Weeks before Kissinger's Beijing visit, in June, the United States along with the Netherlands gave China's chipmaking capabilities a setback by imposing more restrictions on the sales of chipmaking equipment to the Chinese market. The measures were part of a broader strategy to prevent China from leveraging foreign technology to enhance its military capabilities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chip-war-intensifies-us-and-netherlands-impose-stricter-controls-on-chipmaking-equipment-sales-to-china-610417">Chip War Intensifies: U.S. and Netherlands impose stricter controls on chipmaking equipment sales to China</a>

Then in July, just two days after Kissinger's Beijing visit, the Biden administration gave another blow to China's chipmaking ambitions as a consensus emerged on the need for '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-chip-war-intensify-amid-calls-for-small-yard-high-fence-approach-to-contain-china-618392">small yard, high fence</a>' restrictions on chip exports.

Beijing's chipmaking ambitions are intricately linked with a wish to enmesh the world in Chinese-built infrastructure that includes not just roads and bridges but network equipment as well.

"We must march out, deepen international internet exchange and collaboration, and vigorously participate in the construction of 'One Belt, One Road'," Xi had declared in April 2016, three years after the Belt and Road Initiative was first launched.&nbsp;

The project originally devised to link East Asia and Europe through physical infrastructure, &nbsp;has since expanded to Africa, Oceania, and Latin America. But across continents, skepticism has replaced initial euphoria as there remains minimal accrual of benefits that Beijing initially promised.&nbsp;<img alt="Chinese leader Xi Jinping" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f5860f0b-c8b3-4628-a3b7-2b28179f9609" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-12-29T214253.154.png" />

Chinese leader Xi Jinping at the opening ceremony of a summit in Beijing to celebrate the Belt and Road Initiative on October 18, 2023 | Reuters

"The opaque nature of contracts did not allow for public scrutiny," Commodore R.S. Vasan (Retd.), Director General of Chennai Centre of China Studies told WION.

And this &nbsp;December, Italy under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni notified Beijing that it was ceasing its participation in the BRI ahead of a deadline at the year's end.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Losing Momentum: China’s belt &amp; road initiative

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Italy was the only major Western nation to sign up for the BRI in 2019, a move heavily criticised by the West at the time.

Washington calls BRI an example of Beijing's "debt-trap diplomacy", as it involves unsustainably large projects that countries are unable to finance, giving Beijing leverage for its aims. India has denounced the project as it passes through parts of Jammu and Kashmir currently under illegal occupation by Pakistan and China.&nbsp;

Besides, only a fraction of the over&nbsp;$22 billion worth of investment in Italy promised by Xi in 2019 has materialised, according to an official readout from Italy's government.

Italian exports to China were worth $18.13bn last year, compared to $14.37bn in 2019. By contrast, Chinese exports to Italy rose to $63.57bn from $35bn over the same period, which European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen cited as an example of "clear imbalances and differences" that must be addressed.&nbsp;

"From all counts it is a reality check for China as well as the countries who are part of the BRI," Commodore Vasan added.&nbsp;

"The realisation that the funding benefited only the Chinese companies and hardly contributed to job generation in the destination countries is out there as the year closes," he said.

Italy under Meloni was wise to see the pitfalls of BRI and pulled out this year. But several countries are already indebted to China, possibly at a point of no return.

Did 2023 mark&nbsp;the beginning of the end of Xi Jinping's Belt and Road Initiative? The world will know soon enough.&nbsp;

Chinese leader Xi Jinping was seen doing away with his pursed lips and feigned smile twice this year. First in July, when a 100-year-old Henry Kissinger, the controversial US foreign policy wizard and architect of US-China ties visited Beijing.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping was seen doing away with his pursed lips and feigned smile twice this year. First in July, when a 100-year-old Henry Kissinger, the controversial US foreign policy wizard and architect of US-China ties visited Beijing. Secondly, in October during a summit in Beijing to celebrate 10 years of the Belt and Road Initiative, China's ambitious transcontinental trade project mired in accusations of exploitative practices. Xi frequently broke into an uncharacteristic chuckle and threw expressions of diplomatic affection with Kissinger, who is credited with bringing China out of isolation in the 1970s. China's President Xi Jinping with former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger during a meeting in Beijing on July 20, 2023 | AFP But while a smiling Xi was "very glad to see" Kissinger in July 2023, the visit came in the backdrop of the 21st-century contest between Washington and Beijing for semiconductors, dubbed the 'Chip Wars'. Weeks before Kissinger's Beijing visit, in June, the United States along with the Netherlands gave China's chipmaking capabilities a setback by imposing more restrictions on the sales of chipmaking equipment to the Chinese market. The measures were part of a broader strategy to prevent China from leveraging foreign technology to enhance its military capabilities. Also read | Chip War Intensifies: U.S. and Netherlands impose stricter controls on chipmaking equipment sales to China Then in July, just two days after Kissinger's Beijing visit, the Biden administration gave another blow to China's chipmaking ambitions as a consensus emerged on the need for 'small yard, high fence' restrictions on chip exports. Beijing's chipmaking ambitions are intricately linked with a wish to enmesh the world in Chinese-built infrastructure that includes not just roads and bridges but network equipment as well. "We must march out, deepen international internet exchange and collaboration, and vigorously participate in the construction of 'One Belt, One Road'," Xi had declared in April 2016, three years after the Belt and Road Initiative was first launched. The project originally devised to link East Asia and Europe through physical infrastructure, has since expanded to Africa, Oceania, and Latin America. But across continents, skepticism has replaced initial euphoria as there remains minimal accrual of benefits that Beijing initially promised. Chinese leader Xi Jinping at the opening ceremony of a summit in Beijing to celebrate the Belt and Road Initiative on October 18, 2023 | Reuters "The opaque nature of contracts did not allow for public scrutiny," Commodore R.S. Vasan (Retd.), Director General of Chennai Centre of China Studies told WION. And this December, Italy under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni notified Beijing that it was ceasing its participation in the BRI ahead of a deadline at the year's end. Also watch | Losing Momentum: China’s belt & road initiative × Italy was the only major Western nation to sign up for the BRI in 2019, a move heavily criticised by the West at the time. Washington calls BRI an example of Beijing's "debt-trap diplomacy", as it involves unsustainably large projects that countries are unable to finance, giving Beijing leverage for its aims. India has denounced the project as it passes through parts of Jammu and Kashmir currently under illegal occupation by Pakistan and China. Besides, only a fraction of the over $22 billion worth of investment in Italy promised by Xi in 2019 has materialised, according to an official readout from Italy's government. Italian exports to China were worth $18.13bn last year, compared to $14.37bn in 2019. By contrast, Chinese exports to Italy rose to $63.57bn from $35bn over the same period, which European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen cited as an example of "clear imbalances and differences" that must be addressed. "From all counts it is a reality check for China as well as the countries who are part of the BRI," Commodore Vasan added. "The realisation that the funding benefited only the Chinese companies and hardly contributed to job generation in the destination countries is out there as the year closes," he said. Italy under Meloni was wise to see the pitfalls of BRI and pulled out this year. But several countries are already indebted to China, possibly at a point of no return. Did 2023 mark the beginning of the end of Xi Jinping's Belt and Road Initiative? The world will know soon enough.

Xi Jinping's 2023: When China's BRI dream faced an Italian 'reality check'

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday (Dec 29) appealed to a conference of Chinese ambassadors to make a "diplomatic iron army" which is loyal to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). In what is being seen as China's renewed intent to revive the "Wolf Warrior" rhetoric amid the country's increasingly assertive foreign policy.

"Dare to be good at struggle and to become defenders of the national interest. It is necessary to... resolutely safeguard the interests of national sovereignty, security and development with a posture of readiness and a firm will to defy strong powers," said President Xi to Chinese envoys gathered at the work conference for overseas envoys&nbsp;in Beijing.

Xi's assertive remarks are being considered to be similar to the confrontational stance taken by Chinese diplomats since the year 2020, though the tone softened somewhat in later years as China sought to attract investment for its weakened economy.

Gravitas | Space wars: China's counter to Musk's Starlink

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During his speech, Xi Jinping also urged Chinese envoys to follow party discipline. And as he made his point clear, he used the word 'strict' seven times.

Xi's address to the ambassadors came after the Central Foreign Affairs Work Conference. The secretive high-level foreign policy planning meeting of the Communist Party takes place once every five years. The conference concluded on Thursday.

"It is necessary to put rules and discipline in front, strictly discipline oneself, take strict responsibility... and create a diplomatic iron army that is loyal to the Party... dares to and is good at struggle, and observes strict discipline," Xi said during the envoys' conference at Beijing's Great Hall of the People.

<h2>'Rules and discipline'</h2>

The Chinese president's remarks have followed a strict disciplinary push in the Chinese diplomatic corps that came after China's previous foreign minister Qin Gang's removal from his post in July. At the time of his removal, he had served for only seven months amid rumours of an affair.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-burst-or-not-to-burst-chinas-ban-on-fireworks-sparks-debate-ahead-of-lunar-new-year-674804">To burst or not to burst: China's ban on fireworks sparks debate ahead of Lunar New Year</a>

"Loyalty to the Party, the country and the people is the glorious tradition of the diplomatic front," said Xi.

"It is necessary to build a strong line of ideological defence... and be an astute person with firm political beliefs who strictly complies with rules and discipline," he further said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinpings-2023-when-chinas-bri-dream-faced-an-italian-reality-check-674821">Xi Jinping's 2023: When China's BRI dream faced an Italian 'reality check'</a>

Xi also underlined the need for China to increase its international influence

"We must make broad and deep friendships, and the fight to win people's hearts must not only be carried out in temples but deeply among the masses. We must use foreign language and methods to tell the China story well," said Xi, echoing a June 2021 speech in which he urged officials to create a "trustworthy, lovable and respectable" image of China.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday (Dec 29) appealed to a conference of Chinese ambassadors to make a "diplomatic iron army" which is loyal to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday (Dec 29) appealed to a conference of Chinese ambassadors to make a "diplomatic iron army" which is loyal to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). In what is being seen as China's renewed intent to revive the "Wolf Warrior" rhetoric amid the country's increasingly assertive foreign policy. "Dare to be good at struggle and to become defenders of the national interest. It is necessary to... resolutely safeguard the interests of national sovereignty, security and development with a posture of readiness and a firm will to defy strong powers," said President Xi to Chinese envoys gathered at the work conference for overseas envoys in Beijing. Xi's assertive remarks are being considered to be similar to the confrontational stance taken by Chinese diplomats since the year 2020, though the tone softened somewhat in later years as China sought to attract investment for its weakened economy. Gravitas | Space wars: China's counter to Musk's Starlink × During his speech, Xi Jinping also urged Chinese envoys to follow party discipline. And as he made his point clear, he used the word 'strict' seven times. Xi's address to the ambassadors came after the Central Foreign Affairs Work Conference. The secretive high-level foreign policy planning meeting of the Communist Party takes place once every five years. The conference concluded on Thursday. "It is necessary to put rules and discipline in front, strictly discipline oneself, take strict responsibility... and create a diplomatic iron army that is loyal to the Party... dares to and is good at struggle, and observes strict discipline," Xi said during the envoys' conference at Beijing's Great Hall of the People. 'Rules and discipline' The Chinese president's remarks have followed a strict disciplinary push in the Chinese diplomatic corps that came after China's previous foreign minister Qin Gang's removal from his post in July. At the time of his removal, he had served for only seven months amid rumours of an affair. Also Read | To burst or not to burst: China's ban on fireworks sparks debate ahead of Lunar New Year "Loyalty to the Party, the country and the people is the glorious tradition of the diplomatic front," said Xi. "It is necessary to build a strong line of ideological defence... and be an astute person with firm political beliefs who strictly complies with rules and discipline," he further said. Also Read | Xi Jinping's 2023: When China's BRI dream faced an Italian 'reality check' Xi also underlined the need for China to increase its international influence "We must make broad and deep friendships, and the fight to win people's hearts must not only be carried out in temples but deeply among the masses. We must use foreign language and methods to tell the China story well," said Xi, echoing a June 2021 speech in which he urged officials to create a "trustworthy, lovable and respectable" image of China. (With inputs from agencies)

Create 'diplomatic iron army', Xi Jinping tells Chinese envoys

The BRICS club of emerging-market countries is expected to double on January 1st when Saudi Arabia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, and Egypt join the group.

BRICS to grow as Saudi, Iran, UAE, Egypt, Ethiopia join ranks

Gaza is reeling under a human catastrophe. With a severe shortage of essentials and hospitals barely functioning, Hunger and death are looming over Gaza. Israel is continuing its offensive with renewed vigour in the besieged strip. Death toll has risen to over 21,600 according to Hamas. This is around one percent of the Gaza population.

Hamas officials to visit Cairo for hostage talks

The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has refused opposition calls for a rerun of disputed elections this comes as the Congo's powerful Catholic church and its Protestant churches Observer Mission reported numerous irregularities that could undermine some results.

DRC: Opposition alleges 'irregularities' in polls

Russia-Ukraine war: Biggest aerial attacks since the start of the war

If reports are to be believed, the pro-Iranian terror outfits have once again struck the US military base of&nbsp;Kharab al-Jir in Syria. The attack took place on Friday (Dec 29) afternoon and follows the pattern of an intensified campaign of violence by the Islamist groups that want a spillover in regional tension.&nbsp;

Previously, the&nbsp;Kharab al-Jir base was attacked in October on two consecutive days. At the time, the attacks were claimed by groups either directly controlled by Tehran or sharing the ideology of other groups currently fighting Israel.

The fresh attack&nbsp;comes in the backdrop of&nbsp;the US&nbsp;military carrying out retaliatory strikes in Iraq after three American soldiers were wounded in a drone attack on December 26 by Iran-aligned terrorists.

A US base in Iraq's Erbil that houses American forces came under attack from a one-way drone earlier on Monday (Dec 25), leaving one soldier in critical condition. The retaliatory attacks were carried out at the discretion of US President Joe Biden.&nbsp;

"These strikes are intended to hold accountable those elements directly responsible for attacks on coalition forces in Iraq and Syria and degrade their ability to continue attacks. We will always protect our forces," said&nbsp;General Michael Erik Kurilla, head of US Central Command.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-counterstrike-on-iran-backed-forces-former-retaliates-after-3-troops-hurt-world-news-wion-673669">Watch |&nbsp;US counterstrike on Iran-backed forces, former retaliates after 3 troops hurt</a>

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The White House has accused&nbsp;Iran of “actively facilitating” rocket and drone attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria.&nbsp;President Joe Biden has since directed the Department of Defense to brace for&nbsp;similar attacks and respond appropriately

“Iran continues to support Hamas and Hezbollah, and we know that Iran is closely monitoring these events and, in some cases, actively facilitating these attacks and spurring on others who may want to exploit the conflict for their own good or for that of Iran,” said White House spokesman John Kirby at the time.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-carries-out-retaliatory-attacks-in-iraq-after-militants-target-military-base-leaving-three-injured-673548">Also read |&nbsp;US carries out retaliatory attacks in Iraq after militants target military base leaving three injured</a>

Despite US retaliation, the continuous attacks by Iran-backed non-state actors suggests that Tehran has an extensive&nbsp;network of well-armed, aggressive and well-coordinated proxies across the region which it has established for exactly this scenario.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

If reports are to be believed, the pro-Iranian terror outfits have once again struck the US military base of Kharab al-Jir in Syria. The attack took place on Friday (Dec 29) afternoon and follows the pattern of an intensified campaign of violence by the Islamist groups that want a spillover in regional tension.

If reports are to be believed, the pro-Iranian terror outfits have once again struck the US military base of Kharab al-Jir in Syria. The attack took place on Friday (Dec 29) afternoon and follows the pattern of an intensified campaign of violence by the Islamist groups that want a spillover in regional tension. Previously, the Kharab al-Jir base was attacked in October on two consecutive days. At the time, the attacks were claimed by groups either directly controlled by Tehran or sharing the ideology of other groups currently fighting Israel. The fresh attack comes in the backdrop of the US military carrying out retaliatory strikes in Iraq after three American soldiers were wounded in a drone attack on December 26 by Iran-aligned terrorists. A US base in Iraq's Erbil that houses American forces came under attack from a one-way drone earlier on Monday (Dec 25), leaving one soldier in critical condition. The retaliatory attacks were carried out at the discretion of US President Joe Biden. "These strikes are intended to hold accountable those elements directly responsible for attacks on coalition forces in Iraq and Syria and degrade their ability to continue attacks. We will always protect our forces," said General Michael Erik Kurilla, head of US Central Command. Watch | US counterstrike on Iran-backed forces, former retaliates after 3 troops hurt × The White House has accused Iran of “actively facilitating” rocket and drone attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria. President Joe Biden has since directed the Department of Defense to brace for similar attacks and respond appropriately “Iran continues to support Hamas and Hezbollah, and we know that Iran is closely monitoring these events and, in some cases, actively facilitating these attacks and spurring on others who may want to exploit the conflict for their own good or for that of Iran,” said White House spokesman John Kirby at the time. Also read | US carries out retaliatory attacks in Iraq after militants target military base leaving three injured Despite US retaliation, the continuous attacks by Iran-backed non-state actors suggests that Tehran has an extensive network of well-armed, aggressive and well-coordinated proxies across the region which it has established for exactly this scenario. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran-backed Islamist terror outfits strike US base in Syria again

New York is getting ready for demonstrations ahead of New Year's Eve celebration. city mayor Eric Adams has announced preparations to secure Time Square. More than a thousand visitors are expected to gather at the venue this Sunday.

New York: Mayor Eric Adams reiterates confidence in public safety team

The Indian Prime Minister was in the Ayodhya city today. He laid the foundation for 46 developmental projects worth projects worth $1.8 billion ahead of the big day for the Ram Mandir inauguration that is slated to take place next month.

PM Modi in Ayodhya: Ayodhya gets a makeover; airport, revamped railway station inaugurated

Police in Colorado are actively searching for Kimberlee Singler, a 35-year-old mother suspected of killing two of her children and injuring the&nbsp;third. Singler is accused of providing false information about a burglary at her home, leading to the discovery of the killed children.

Responding to a 911 call reporting a burglary on December 19, Colorado Springs police found Singler and her 11-year-old daughter injured. Tragically, a 9-year-old girl and a 7-year-old boy were found dead. Further investigation revealed that the initial burglary report was "unfounded."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-six-nri-family-members-killed-in-road-accident-in-texas-day-after-christmas-674092">Also read |&nbsp;US: Six NRI family members killed in road accident in Texas, day after Christmas</a>

<h2>Warrant and charges issued</h2>

A warrant has been issued for Singler on charges including four counts of first-degree murder, two counts of first-degree attempted murder, three counts of child abuse, and one count of assault. The arrest warrant's details are currently sealed under a court order, and a $10 million bond has been set.

While the specifics of the arrest warrant remain undisclosed, Singler is facing severe charges related to the alleged murder of her children and the attempted murder of her injured daughter. The court order to seal details indicates the sensitivity and complexity of the ongoing investigation.

Also watch |&nbsp;US: Nikki Haley admits civil war was 'about slavery' amidst criticism

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Despite the tragic events, Singler's 11-year-old daughter is reported to be recovering and safe in the Colorado Springs area. The police have not disclosed the extent of the injuries sustained by Singler and her surviving child during the incident.

(With inputs from agencies)

Police in Colorado are actively searching for Kimberlee Singler, a 35-year-old mother suspected of killing two of her children and injuring the third. Singler is accused of providing false information about a burglary at her home, leading to the discovery of the killed children.

Police in Colorado are actively searching for Kimberlee Singler, a 35-year-old mother suspected of killing two of her children and injuring the third. Singler is accused of providing false information about a burglary at her home, leading to the discovery of the killed children. Responding to a 911 call reporting a burglary on December 19, Colorado Springs police found Singler and her 11-year-old daughter injured. Tragically, a 9-year-old girl and a 7-year-old boy were found dead. Further investigation revealed that the initial burglary report was "unfounded." Also read | US: Six NRI family members killed in road accident in Texas, day after Christmas Warrant and charges issued A warrant has been issued for Singler on charges including four counts of first-degree murder, two counts of first-degree attempted murder, three counts of child abuse, and one count of assault. The arrest warrant's details are currently sealed under a court order, and a $10 million bond has been set. While the specifics of the arrest warrant remain undisclosed, Singler is facing severe charges related to the alleged murder of her children and the attempted murder of her injured daughter. The court order to seal details indicates the sensitivity and complexity of the ongoing investigation. Also watch | US: Nikki Haley admits civil war was 'about slavery' amidst criticism Despite the tragic events, Singler's 11-year-old daughter is reported to be recovering and safe in the Colorado Springs area. The police have not disclosed the extent of the injuries sustained by Singler and her surviving child during the incident. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Colorado mother on the run after allegedly killing two of her children

At least 31 people have been killed and scores of others injured in Russian strikes across Ukraine. This is the biggest area attack since the start of the war two years ago. According to Ukrainian officials schools, a maternity hospital and shopping arcades were among the civilian buildings hit in the barrage.

Russia-Ukraine war: US NSA speaks with polish counterpart

Russia-Ukraine war has taken a turn for the worse as the year comes to an end. Ukraine carried out retaliatory strikes in Russia's Belgorod overnight after Russia's deadliest attack on the country. Kremlin has issued a stern warning to Ukraine after 14 were killed and 55 injured in Belgorod. Kremlin has also called a UNSC meeting over the recent attack.

Russia-Ukraine war: Begorod attack: Russia calls UNSC meet

The Chinese Communist Party is tightening its grip on party discipline as it is setting down new rules under which party members can be expelled for reading sensitive Works in private, soliciting prostitution, or using narcotics.

China's disciplinary enforcers frame new laws

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the temple town of Ayodhya in northern India and inaugurated an airport and a revamped railway station. Russia claimed a major strike by Ukraine that stoked Moscow to call for a UN Security Council meeting. Besides, today was Rudyard Kipling's 158th birth anniversary.

Click here to read more: 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-in-ayodhya-pitches-indias-cultural-heritage-as-base-for-economic-prosperity-675097">Modi in Ayodhya pitches India’s rich cultural heritage as foundation for economic prosperity</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/30/402671-untitled-design-2023-12-30t200031925.png?imwidth=3840" /> 
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited&nbsp;the holy town of Ayodhya on&nbsp;Saturday (Dec 30) to open fresh transport links in a 'historic'&nbsp;massive revamp of Hinduism's major pilgrimage centre.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-strike-kills-at-least-14-in-city-of-belgorod-says-russia-675107">Ukrainian strike kills at least 14 in city of Belgorod, says Russia</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/30/402679-succession-2023-12-30t215052985.jpg?imwidth=3840" /> 
A deadly missile strike by Ukraine on the Russian city of Belgorod claimed the lives of at least 14 people and wounded 108 others, Russia's emergencies ministry said Saturday (Dec 30).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-imran-khans-election-nomination-rejected-from-two-constituencies-675068">Pakistan: Imran Khan’s election nomination rejected from two constituencies</a>

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Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's nomination was rejected from the two National Assembly constituencies in Mianwali and Lahore. The elections in Pakistan are scheduled to be held in February.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-eam-jaishankar-to-represent-india-at-uganda-nam-summit-in-january-2024-675103">Exclusive: EAM Jaishankar to represent India at Uganda NAM Summit in January 2024</a>

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India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar is set to represent India at the upcoming Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in Uganda's capital Kampala next month. Scheduled from January 17th to 20th, 2024, the 19th edition of the NAM summit will be preceded by a crucial foreign ministerial meeting from 15th January.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-new-year-greetings-to-prez-murmu-pm-modi-putin-lauds-indias-g20-sco-presidency-675101">In New Year greetings to President Droupadi Murmu, PM Modi, Putin lauds India’s G20, SCO presidency</a>

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In his annual&nbsp;New Year address to the Indian leadership, Russian President Vladimir Putin praised New Delhi's chairmanship of the G20, and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summits this year. India led both groupings and organised the in-person G20 summit in Delhi in September and the virtual SCO summit in July. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-first-flight-to-indias-temple-city-of-ayodhya-indigo-captains-welcome-passengers-cut-cake-675072">On first flight to India’s temple city of Ayodhya, IndiGo captain greets passengers with ‘Jai Shree Ram’</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/30/402658-untitled-design-2023-12-30t182920936.png?imwidth=3840" /> 
On the first flight which was bound for Ayodhya's newly-inaugurated Maharishi Valmiki International Airport from India's capital New Delhi, a special announcement was made by the captain for the passengers. 
 
<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>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/30/402672-succession-2023-12-30t200225178.jpg?imwidth=3840" /> 
 
Flooding in a railway tunnel near London forced the cancellation of more than a dozen trains linking Britain with the European mainland early on Saturday, international rail operator Eurostar said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-all-rounder-shardul-thakur-injures-shoulder-during-net-session-675082">India all-rounder Shardul Thakur</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-all-rounder-shardul-thakur-injures-shoulder-during-net-session-675082"> injures shoulder during net session</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/30/402666-untitled-design-2023-12-30t192040658.png?imwidth=3840" />

India all-rounder Shardul Thakur was injured on Saturday, December 30 while batting during a net session. Thakur was hit on shoulder when he was taking throwdowns and the extent of seriousness of the injury is yet to be determined. The all-rounder will undergo scans if required. The developments were first reported by the news agency PTI.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-rudyard-kipling-a-literary-colossus-built-on-colonial-sand-674974">Rudyard Kipling, a literary colossus built on colonial sand</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/30/402594-rudyard-kipling.png?imwidth=3840" /> 
Today marks the 158th&nbsp;anniversary of Rudyard Kipling's birth. The occasion prompts a comprehensive reflection on his complex legacy, particularly for those who, like me, grew up enchanted by his stories and discovered the disturbing undercurrents of his beliefs much later. Born on December 30, 1865, in Bombay, British India, Kipling's literary contributions are undeniably significant, yet the shadows of his colonial-era prejudices cast a disquieting pall over his work.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the temple town of Ayodhya in northern India and inaugurated an airport and a revamped railway station. Russia claimed a major strike by Ukraine that stoked Moscow to call for a UN Security Council meeting.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the temple town of Ayodhya in northern India and inaugurated an airport and a revamped railway station. Russia claimed a major strike by Ukraine that stoked Moscow to call for a UN Security Council meeting. Besides, today was Rudyard Kipling's 158th birth anniversary. Click here to read more: Modi in Ayodhya pitches India’s rich cultural heritage as foundation for economic prosperity Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the holy town of Ayodhya on Saturday (Dec 30) to open fresh transport links in a 'historic' massive revamp of Hinduism's major pilgrimage centre. Ukrainian strike kills at least 14 in city of Belgorod, says Russia A deadly missile strike by Ukraine on the Russian city of Belgorod claimed the lives of at least 14 people and wounded 108 others, Russia's emergencies ministry said Saturday (Dec 30). Pakistan: Imran Khan’s election nomination rejected from two constituencies Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's nomination was rejected from the two National Assembly constituencies in Mianwali and Lahore. The elections in Pakistan are scheduled to be held in February. Exclusive: EAM Jaishankar to represent India at Uganda NAM Summit in January 2024 India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar is set to represent India at the upcoming Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in Uganda's capital Kampala next month. Scheduled from January 17th to 20th, 2024, the 19th edition of the NAM summit will be preceded by a crucial foreign ministerial meeting from 15th January. In New Year greetings to President Droupadi Murmu, PM Modi, Putin lauds India’s G20, SCO presidency In his annual New Year address to the Indian leadership, Russian President Vladimir Putin praised New Delhi's chairmanship of the G20, and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summits this year. India led both groupings and organised the in-person G20 summit in Delhi in September and the virtual SCO summit in July. On first flight to India’s temple city of Ayodhya, IndiGo captain greets passengers with ‘Jai Shree Ram’ On the first flight which was bound for Ayodhya's newly-inaugurated Maharishi Valmiki International Airport from India's capital New Delhi, a special announcement was made by the captain for the passengers. Flooded tunnels near London disrupt Eurostar train services, thousands of passengers stranded Flooding in a railway tunnel near London forced the cancellation of more than a dozen trains linking Britain with the European mainland early on Saturday, international rail operator Eurostar said. India all-rounder Shardul Thakur injures shoulder during net session India all-rounder Shardul Thakur was injured on Saturday, December 30 while batting during a net session. Thakur was hit on shoulder when he was taking throwdowns and the extent of seriousness of the injury is yet to be determined. The all-rounder will undergo scans if required. The developments were first reported by the news agency PTI. Rudyard Kipling, a literary colossus built on colonial sand Today marks the 158th anniversary of Rudyard Kipling's birth. The occasion prompts a comprehensive reflection on his complex legacy, particularly for those who, like me, grew up enchanted by his stories and discovered the disturbing undercurrents of his beliefs much later. Born on December 30, 1865, in Bombay, British India, Kipling's literary contributions are undeniably significant, yet the shadows of his colonial-era prejudices cast a disquieting pall over his work.

Top 10 world news: Modi in Ayodhya ahead of temple consecration, Russia shaken by Belogrod strike, and more

Israel-Hamas war: Israel expands offensive in Southern Gaza's Khan Younis

Taiwan’s election on 13 January is the first of more than 40 national elections to be held around the world in 2024.

Taiwan set to go polls on January 13

China appoints naval commander as new defence minister. General Dong Jun has served in all major naval divisions in the plan. Following the classic trend of the country Minister Dong Jun will be taking over from his predecessor Li Shangfu who was last seen in August.

China: Former Navy Chief Dong Jun as new Defence Minister

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