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Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley was asked Wednesday by a New Hampshire voter about the reason for the Civil War, and she didn’t mention slavery in her response — leading the voter to say he was “astonished” by her omission.

Asked about US civil war, Haley leaves out mention of slavery

Get ready for a new year bonanza. With the general elections due in the first half of 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government is working on huge cuts – upwards of Rs 8 per litre -- in the retail prices of petrol and diesel that would be announced before the calendar year ends.

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The United States President Joe Biden’s administration, on Wednesday (Dec 27) announced another tranche of military aid for Ukraine worth around $250 million, amid its ongoing war with Russia. The latest package marked the last funding available for the war-torn country without fresh approval from Congress where the talks on a new agreement have stalled.&nbsp;

<h2>About the latest military aid package</h2>

The latest package included air defence munitions, anti-tank weapons, artillery ammunition, anti-armour munitions and over 15 million rounds of ammunition, said Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Washington’s top diplomat, in a statement, said Congress, where Republicans are split on supporting Ukraine, should “act swiftly” to renew the flow.&nbsp;

He added, “Our assistance has been critical to supporting our Ukrainian partners as they defend their country and their freedom against Russia’s aggression.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-arrives-at-white-house-for-aid-talks-with-joe-biden-669060">Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200 million emergency aid drawdown</a>

The weapons, worth up to $250 million are provided through the Presidential Drawdown Authority and will be pulled from Pentagon stockpiles. The drawdown is a US foreign policy tool, which allows speedy delivery of Department of Defense stocks to foreign countries in crisis and does not need Congressional approval.&nbsp;

In a statement, Marine Lieutenant Colonel Garron Garn, a Pentagon spokesperson said there is no more funding to replace the weapons taken from department stocks. Therefore, Garn added, “Without the supplemental funding, there will be a shortfall in replenishing U.S. military stocks, affecting American military readiness.”

Earlier this month, Biden signed a $200 million emergency aid drawdown for Kyiv amid Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to Washington. This is after Zelensky failed to sway US lawmakers as criticism of continued financial support for Ukraine has grown louder on Capitol Hill in recent months, particularly from the Republicans.

However, the US president has made backing Ukraine a priority as Western aid has been crucial in helping the war-torn country against a far larger attacking Russian army.

<h2>Biden’s $106 billion aid package proposal</h2>

Biden has sought Congress’ approval of a broader $106 billion emergency spending package which would include funding for US border security and military and humanitarian aid for Israel, Taiwan and Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ending-us-aid-for-ukraine-would-allow-putin-to-prevail-warns-white-house-666210">Ending US aid for Ukraine would allow Putin to prevail, warns White House</a>

Out of the $106 billion spending package, proposed by the White House, more than $61 billion would be allocated to Ukraine.&nbsp;

While there is broad bipartisan backing for Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia, support from Kyiv’s Western allies has dwindled in recent months amid a stalled counter-offensive in the east of the country and little progress along the line of control.

Meanwhile, on Capitol Hill, any agreement on further military aid to Ukraine has been stopped by Republicans who insist that tougher security measures on the US-Mexico border as a condition for a deal.

Congress has approved more than $110 billion in aid for Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s invasion.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia fires another barrage of drones</h2>

The announcement on Wednesday comes as Russia fired almost 50 Shahed drones at targets in Ukraine, reported the Associated Press. Moscow also reportedly shelled a train station in the southern city of Kherson where more than 100 civilians were gathered to catch a train to Kyiv.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-drone-and-artillery-attack-kills-6-in-ukrainian-city-causes-power-outage-674075">Russia-Ukraine war: Drone and artillery attack kills 6 in Ukrainian city, causes power outage</a>

As per the officials, the barrages killed at least five people and knocked out power in most of the southern city of Kherson.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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.

The United States President Joe Biden’s administration, on Wednesday (Dec 27) announced another tranche of military aid for Ukraine worth around $250 million, amid its ongoing war with Russia.

The United States President Joe Biden’s administration, on Wednesday (Dec 27) announced another tranche of military aid for Ukraine worth around $250 million, amid its ongoing war with Russia. The latest package marked the last funding available for the war-torn country without fresh approval from Congress where the talks on a new agreement have stalled. About the latest military aid package The latest package included air defence munitions, anti-tank weapons, artillery ammunition, anti-armour munitions and over 15 million rounds of ammunition, said Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday. Washington’s top diplomat, in a statement, said Congress, where Republicans are split on supporting Ukraine, should “act swiftly” to renew the flow. He added, “Our assistance has been critical to supporting our Ukrainian partners as they defend their country and their freedom against Russia’s aggression.” ALSO READ | Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200 million emergency aid drawdown The weapons, worth up to $250 million are provided through the Presidential Drawdown Authority and will be pulled from Pentagon stockpiles. The drawdown is a US foreign policy tool, which allows speedy delivery of Department of Defense stocks to foreign countries in crisis and does not need Congressional approval. In a statement, Marine Lieutenant Colonel Garron Garn, a Pentagon spokesperson said there is no more funding to replace the weapons taken from department stocks. Therefore, Garn added, “Without the supplemental funding, there will be a shortfall in replenishing U.S. military stocks, affecting American military readiness.” Earlier this month, Biden signed a $200 million emergency aid drawdown for Kyiv amid Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to Washington. This is after Zelensky failed to sway US lawmakers as criticism of continued financial support for Ukraine has grown louder on Capitol Hill in recent months, particularly from the Republicans. However, the US president has made backing Ukraine a priority as Western aid has been crucial in helping the war-torn country against a far larger attacking Russian army. Biden’s $106 billion aid package proposal Biden has sought Congress’ approval of a broader $106 billion emergency spending package which would include funding for US border security and military and humanitarian aid for Israel, Taiwan and Ukraine. ALSO READ | Ending US aid for Ukraine would allow Putin to prevail, warns White House Out of the $106 billion spending package, proposed by the White House, more than $61 billion would be allocated to Ukraine. While there is broad bipartisan backing for Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia, support from Kyiv’s Western allies has dwindled in recent months amid a stalled counter-offensive in the east of the country and little progress along the line of control. Meanwhile, on Capitol Hill, any agreement on further military aid to Ukraine has been stopped by Republicans who insist that tougher security measures on the US-Mexico border as a condition for a deal. Congress has approved more than $110 billion in aid for Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s invasion. Russia fires another barrage of drones The announcement on Wednesday comes as Russia fired almost 50 Shahed drones at targets in Ukraine, reported the Associated Press. Moscow also reportedly shelled a train station in the southern city of Kherson where more than 100 civilians were gathered to catch a train to Kyiv. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war: Drone and artillery attack kills 6 in Ukrainian city, causes power outage As per the officials, the barrages killed at least five people and knocked out power in most of the southern city of Kherson. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

White House to release final package of authorised military aid for Ukraine amid deadlock in Congress

In a recent development, a Qatar court has decided to reduce the sentences handed to eight Indian nationals who were convicted last month in connection with an alleged espionage case.

Qatar reduces sentences of eight Indian nationals on death row | Dahra Global Case

Preparations are in full swing for the Ram Temple inauguration in India. Ayodhya is all decked up for the consecration ceremony on January 22. The city has become a buzzing hub of activity with revamped infrastructure. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate several projects worth billions of dollars on December 30. This includes Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram International Airport and the Ayodhya railway station.

India: Preparations in full swing for Ram Mandir inauguration

Tensions rise amid series of maritime run-ins. China levies fresh accusations at the Philippines. China has alleged that the Philippines brings outside forces to intervene. Beijing has said it is "willing to work with Manila on sea-related issues." Watch the video to know more!

Beijing warns Manila on 'harassment' | South China Sea crisis

Senior commander of Iran's Revolutionary Guards Corps Sayyed Reza Mousavi has been killed in an Israeli airstrike near Damascus, Syria. Mousavi was a close aide of Qasem Soleimani. Iran has vowed to avenge Mousavi's death.

Senior IRGC officer killed in Israeli strike, Iran vows revenge | World DNA

In the democratic Republic of Congo, the recently-held presidential election continues to be mired in controversy. In the latest, an opposition leader has accused the congolese police of using live bullets to break up a protest in capital Kinshasa.

Dr Congo: Opposition supporters clash with police at banned protest

The US has accused Iran of aiding Houthi Pirates. More than 20 countries have joined the US-led coalition to protect Red Sea shipping from attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels; However Spain will not participate in coalition against Red Sea attacks.

Spain PM opposes operation against Houthis, says 'Operation Atlanta cannot prevent Houthi attacks'

Israel’s war in Gaza threatens to spill into Lebanon and beyond. Escalating strikes and counterstrikes along the border between Israel And Lebanon are raising fears of a possible new front, even as its fighters remain mired in bloody urban combat in Gaza to the south in its campaign to destroy Hamas.

Israel-Hamas war: Israel fears war on seven fronts as attacks rise in neighbourhood

In 2023, the global economic landscape has seen significant shifts, mirrored by the performance of various currencies. This next report puts the spotlight on the top and worst-performing currencies and decodes what's in store for their economies going forward.

Explained:  What currency movements say about economies

Fears of regional escalation as Israel warns of ‘multi-front’ war

Hong Kong's primary opposition party has officially shut its doors. The once-prominent civic party cleared its headquarters and shuttered its doors on the 15th of December. Founded in 2006, the civic party -- nicknamed the barristers' party -- was made up of attorneys, academics and other professionals. The party promoted democratisation through political reform. But now, the party and its leaders said they are quitting active politics.

Hong Kong's civic party shuts doors | Civic party clears its headquarters

The relationship between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, india and Pakistan has been rocky for a very long time. Islamabad which has been a source of terrorism is now exporting drugs and weapons via drones to India.

War on drugs: Wave of drug-carrying drones flying into India

As the world prepares to welcome the new year, retailers and producers of fruits and vegetables in France are bracing for an impact as a law banning the use of single-use plastic comes into force on January 1. France has set an aim to be fully single-use plastic-free by the year 2040 and implementation of the law is a step in that direction.

The use of single-use plastic is still widespread in France, especially in the sale of fresh fruits and vegetables. According to a France24 report, a third of fresh produce grown in the country is sold this way.

The law, aiming to drastically reduce the use of single-use plastic, will ban the use of plastic film and even netting.

"It used to be a miracle product...But as always we didn't consider consequences," an elderly woman told France24 while referring to plastic.

Watch | France: Over 700 Airbus employees take ill after Christmas party, dinner organised for 2,600 people

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Steps taken to reduce or eliminate the use of single-use plastic find support among the public in France.

However, fresh food producers expressed concern about the latest drastic measure and said that they are not ready to bring about such a change.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-plane-row-indian-police-forms-teams-to-bust-illegal-immigration-673925">France plane row: Indian police form teams to bust illegal immigration network</a>

"We don't have a miracle product which is affordable and can be put to immediate use instead of plastic. Either the material isn't totally transparent, or it breaks easily or isn't moisture-proof," said Laurent Gardin, President of the Fresh Fruits and Vegetable Producers' Association, as quoted by France24.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/missing-uk-boy-turns-up-in-france-police-open-investigation-672593">British police investigate case of UK boy who disappeared and turned up in France</a>

But the ban is not a blanket ban. The government has reportedly deemed it legal for some products to be sold in single-use plastic. Twenty-nine foodstuffs are currently exempt from this ban. The list includes early-harvest potatoes and carrots, broccoli, mushrooms, salads, berries and certain other fresh products. In addition to this, exemption from this rule would also apply to items that are considered fragile.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the world prepares to welcome the new year, retailers and producers of fruits and vegetables in France are bracing for an impact as a law banning the use of single-use plastic comes into force on January 1.

As the world prepares to welcome the new year, retailers and producers of fruits and vegetables in France are bracing for an impact as a law banning the use of single-use plastic comes into force on January 1. France has set an aim to be fully single-use plastic-free by the year 2040 and implementation of the law is a step in that direction. The use of single-use plastic is still widespread in France, especially in the sale of fresh fruits and vegetables. According to a France24 report, a third of fresh produce grown in the country is sold this way. The law, aiming to drastically reduce the use of single-use plastic, will ban the use of plastic film and even netting. "It used to be a miracle product...But as always we didn't consider consequences," an elderly woman told France24 while referring to plastic. Watch | France: Over 700 Airbus employees take ill after Christmas party, dinner organised for 2,600 people × Steps taken to reduce or eliminate the use of single-use plastic find support among the public in France. However, fresh food producers expressed concern about the latest drastic measure and said that they are not ready to bring about such a change. Also Read | France plane row: Indian police form teams to bust illegal immigration network "We don't have a miracle product which is affordable and can be put to immediate use instead of plastic. Either the material isn't totally transparent, or it breaks easily or isn't moisture-proof," said Laurent Gardin, President of the Fresh Fruits and Vegetable Producers' Association, as quoted by France24. Also Read | British police investigate case of UK boy who disappeared and turned up in France But the ban is not a blanket ban. The government has reportedly deemed it legal for some products to be sold in single-use plastic. Twenty-nine foodstuffs are currently exempt from this ban. The list includes early-harvest potatoes and carrots, broccoli, mushrooms, salads, berries and certain other fresh products. In addition to this, exemption from this rule would also apply to items that are considered fragile. (With inputs from agencies)

France preps for ban on plastic packaging for fresh produce as new year approaches

Gaza Health officials report dozens killed in an Israeli strike as the focus on Israel's war against Hamas militants shifts to the besieged territories. Israel's relentless air and ground offensive has left much of Gaza in ruins and killed over 20,000 people mostly women and children.

Israel-Hamas war | At least 195 killed in Israeli strikes in past 24 hours: Hamas-run ministry

A woman plunged to her death from the edge of a cliff at a New York state park while taking photos with her husband last week, the police have informed.&nbsp;

Nur Aisyah Binte MD Akbar, 39, and her husband&nbsp;Abdul Rauf Bin Mohd Said, 41, both of Singapore were hiking on the&nbsp;Beacon Hill Trail in the Minnewaska State park&nbsp;in the town of Rochester when the accident took place.&nbsp;

Both stopped to take photos at the edge of the cliff when Binte MD Akbar lost her footing and slipped down the cliff, approximately 70 feet. The husband called 911 which led to multiple agencies converging on the scene for the rescue job.&nbsp;

According to the New York State Police (NYSP), the NYSP Aviation personnel arrived on the scene and hoisted the victim to safety.&nbsp;

"Other responding agencies who assisted in the rescue included NYS Park Police, Park Operations Staff, NYS DEC Forest Rangers, and various Fire and EMT personnel," the police said.&nbsp;

The woman was taken to the hospital where she "succumbed to her injuries". "My heart is broken into pieces and I don’t know how to piece them back together," Bin Mohd Said in a Facebook post.&nbsp;

The police, meanwhile, launched an investigation to find out if there was foul play involved in the accident.&nbsp;

Notably, the&nbsp;Minnewaska State Park is open to the public for hiking, biking, rock climbing and a range of other recreational activities. According to the State Department of Environmental Conservation, the preserve houses white-tailed deer, coyotes, timber rattlesnakes and more than 200 species of birds, attracting huge public footfall.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-illinois-man-charged-with-a-hate-crime-for-stabbing-a-6-year-old-muslim-boy-to-death-647456">Watch |&nbsp;US: Illinois man charged with a hate crime for stabbing a 6-year-old Muslim boy to death</a>

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<h2>Previous instance</h2>

Earlier this month, an individual named&nbsp;Nizamettin Gursu was arrested five months after his girlfriend, Yesim Demir, plummeted off a cliff in Canakkale, a city in northwestern Turkey.&nbsp;

During the initial investigation, Gursu claimed that his girlfriend fell off the cliff when he was grabbing celebratory food and drinks from his car. However, during the investigation, the police discovered that&nbsp;the ring Gursu claimed to have given Demir after she accepted his proposal was still in its box inside his pocket.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-wife-stabs-husband-in-eyes-with-scissors-for-demanding-tea-674370">Also read |&nbsp;India: Wife stabs husband in eyes with scissors for demanding tea</a>

The suspicions increased when police found&nbsp;shattered glasses and a broken music speaker at the couple’s engagement spot, seeming to indicate a physical altercation.

(With inputs from agencies)

A woman plunged to her death from the edge of a cliff at a New York state park while taking photos with her husband last week, the police have informed. Nur Aisyah Binte MD Akbar, 39, and her husband Abdul Rauf Bin Mohd Said, 41, both of Singapore were hiking on the Beacon Hill Trail in the Minnewaska State park in the town of Rochester when the accident took place.

A woman plunged to her death from the edge of a cliff at a New York state park while taking photos with her husband last week, the police have informed. Nur Aisyah Binte MD Akbar, 39, and her husband Abdul Rauf Bin Mohd Said, 41, both of Singapore were hiking on the Beacon Hill Trail in the Minnewaska State park in the town of Rochester when the accident took place. Both stopped to take photos at the edge of the cliff when Binte MD Akbar lost her footing and slipped down the cliff, approximately 70 feet. The husband called 911 which led to multiple agencies converging on the scene for the rescue job. According to the New York State Police (NYSP), the NYSP Aviation personnel arrived on the scene and hoisted the victim to safety. "Other responding agencies who assisted in the rescue included NYS Park Police, Park Operations Staff, NYS DEC Forest Rangers, and various Fire and EMT personnel," the police said. The woman was taken to the hospital where she "succumbed to her injuries". "My heart is broken into pieces and I don’t know how to piece them back together," Bin Mohd Said in a Facebook post. The police, meanwhile, launched an investigation to find out if there was foul play involved in the accident. Notably, the Minnewaska State Park is open to the public for hiking, biking, rock climbing and a range of other recreational activities. According to the State Department of Environmental Conservation, the preserve houses white-tailed deer, coyotes, timber rattlesnakes and more than 200 species of birds, attracting huge public footfall. Watch | US: Illinois man charged with a hate crime for stabbing a 6-year-old Muslim boy to death × Previous instance Earlier this month, an individual named Nizamettin Gursu was arrested five months after his girlfriend, Yesim Demir, plummeted off a cliff in Canakkale, a city in northwestern Turkey. During the initial investigation, Gursu claimed that his girlfriend fell off the cliff when he was grabbing celebratory food and drinks from his car. However, during the investigation, the police discovered that the ring Gursu claimed to have given Demir after she accepted his proposal was still in its box inside his pocket. Also read | India: Wife stabs husband in eyes with scissors for demanding tea The suspicions increased when police found shattered glasses and a broken music speaker at the couple’s engagement spot, seeming to indicate a physical altercation. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Woman falls to her death after slipping off a cliff at New York State park

In Pics | Year Ender 2023: General, Presidential elections around the world

Bartlomiej Sienkiewicz, who is Poland's new culture minister, Wednesday (Dec 27) announced the liquidation of all public media, including state television, radio and news agency, ahead of a restructuring.&nbsp;

The public media have been seen as a mouthpiece of the previous populist-nationalist government.&nbsp;

The move would "guarantee the working and restructuring" of the public television and radio stations and national press agency PAP while avoiding staff layoffs, said Sienkiewicz in a statement posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.&nbsp;

He wrote that the "liquidation status can be withdrawn at any time by the owner", the state.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-italy-move-forward-in-melodi-era-with-approval-of-key-migration-and-mobility-pact-674079">India-Italy move forward in ‘Melodi’ era with approval of key migration and mobility pact</a>&nbsp;

"Due to the decision of the President of the Republic of Poland to suspend financing of public media, I decided to put into liquidation the companies Telewizja Polska SA, Polskie Radio SA and Polska Agencja Prasowa SA," the statement on X read.&nbsp;

"In the current situation, such action will ensure the continued operation of these companies, carry out the necessary restructuring and prevent layoffs of employees in the above-mentioned companies," it added.&nbsp;

It is believed that the announcement is likely to aggravate the standoff between the government and President Andrzej Duda, who is an ally of the previous administration, who has criticised the government's reforms and vetoed subsidies to state media.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eiffel-tower-closed-as-staff-go-on-strike-674159">Eiffel Tower closed as staff go on strike</a>&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Prime Minister Donald Tusk's government took power after eight years of rule by the right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) party.&nbsp;

The pro-European Union coalition headed by Tusk then started an overhaul of state media institutions. Previously, critics have alleged that the public media had become propaganda outlets during the years PiS was in power.&nbsp;

It justified last week's sacking of the management of public media as a bid to restore "impartiality".&nbsp;

In response, PiS lawmaker Joanna Lichocka said in a post on X that "Tusk's government is destroying the Polish media".

"This is an act which damages the state," she added.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Bartlomiej Sienkiewicz, who is Poland's new culture minister, Wednesday (Dec 27) announced the liquidation of all public media, including state television, radio and news agency, ahead of a restructuring.

Bartlomiej Sienkiewicz, who is Poland's new culture minister, Wednesday (Dec 27) announced the liquidation of all public media, including state television, radio and news agency, ahead of a restructuring. The public media have been seen as a mouthpiece of the previous populist-nationalist government. The move would "guarantee the working and restructuring" of the public television and radio stations and national press agency PAP while avoiding staff layoffs, said Sienkiewicz in a statement posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. He wrote that the "liquidation status can be withdrawn at any time by the owner", the state. Also read: India-Italy move forward in ‘Melodi’ era with approval of key migration and mobility pact "Due to the decision of the President of the Republic of Poland to suspend financing of public media, I decided to put into liquidation the companies Telewizja Polska SA, Polskie Radio SA and Polska Agencja Prasowa SA," the statement on X read. "In the current situation, such action will ensure the continued operation of these companies, carry out the necessary restructuring and prevent layoffs of employees in the above-mentioned companies," it added. It is believed that the announcement is likely to aggravate the standoff between the government and President Andrzej Duda, who is an ally of the previous administration, who has criticised the government's reforms and vetoed subsidies to state media. Also read: Eiffel Tower closed as staff go on strike Earlier this month, Prime Minister Donald Tusk's government took power after eight years of rule by the right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) party. The pro-European Union coalition headed by Tusk then started an overhaul of state media institutions. Previously, critics have alleged that the public media had become propaganda outlets during the years PiS was in power. It justified last week's sacking of the management of public media as a bid to restore "impartiality". In response, PiS lawmaker Joanna Lichocka said in a post on X that "Tusk's government is destroying the Polish media". "This is an act which damages the state," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Poland liquidates all public media ahead of restructuring

The armed groups have reportedly killed at least about 160 people in central Nigeria in a series of attacks on villages. This is said to be 10 times who were the first 16 who were first reported being killed by the Army in a region that's long been riddled by religious and ethnic tensions.

Nigeria: Dozens killed in armed groups attacks on villages in central Nigeria

China's defence ministry on Thursday accused Taiwan's leadership of "hyping up" claims that Beijing is interfering in the self-ruled island's upcoming presidential election. Taipei officials have repeatedly raised concerns about election interference and misinformation, and the January 13 vote comes during an escalating pressure campaign by Beijing, which claims the island as part of its territory.

China says Taiwan election interference claims are exaggerated

Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Wednesday (Dec 27) in Moscow met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Russia.

India FM Jaishankar meets Russia President Putin, latter invites PM Modi to Russia in 2024 | WION

The Israeli bombardment in Gaza after October 7 attack by Hamas continued for 83rd day with no scope for truce in sight. Shelling by Israel near a hospital in Khan Younis late on December 27 claimed the lives of 20 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run&nbsp;health ministry.&nbsp;

Following the attack at al-Amal hospital, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society published a graphic video which showed blood splattered on street with rescue teams scrambling to identify the survivors.&nbsp;

The video, seen by WION, showed chaotic scenes amid pools of blood with others rushing to help the wounded.&nbsp;

<h2>UN asks Israel to 'end unlawful killings'</h2>

Meanwhile, the United Nations flagged the human rights situation in the West Bank and urged Israel to "end unlawful killings" against the Palestinian population in West Bank.&nbsp;

A report released on Thursday (Dec 28) demanded an immediate end to the use of military weapons during law enforcement operations as well as an end to arbitrary detention and ill-treatment of Palestinians, and the lifting of discriminatory movement restrictions.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: UN Security Council adopts resolution to increase Gaza aid

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"The use of military tactics and weapons in law enforcement contexts, the use of unnecessary or disproportionate force, and the enforcement of broad, arbitrary and discriminatory movement restrictions that affect Palestinians are extremely troubling," UN rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-un-says-several-killed-in-strikes-on-its-facility-in-gaza-657804">Israel-Hamas war: UN says several killed in strikes on its facility in Gaza</a>

"The intensity of the violence and repression is something that has not been seen in years."

The report looked at the human rights situation in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since October 7.

The bloodiest-ever war in Gaza erupted when Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7 and killed about 1200 people, mostly civilians.

They took 250 hostages, of whom 129 remain inside Gaza, according to Israeli officials, in the worst attack in the country's history.

Israel launched extensive aerial bombardment and a siege followed by a ground invasion. The campaign has killed at least 21,110 people, mostly women and children, claims Hamas-run Gaza's health ministry. 
 
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli bombardment in Gaza after October 7 attack by Hamas continued for 83rd day with no scope for truce in sight. Shelling by Israel near a hospital in Khan Younis late on December 27 claimed the lives of 20 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

The Israeli bombardment in Gaza after October 7 attack by Hamas continued for 83rd day with no scope for truce in sight. Shelling by Israel near a hospital in Khan Younis late on December 27 claimed the lives of 20 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Following the attack at al-Amal hospital, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society published a graphic video which showed blood splattered on street with rescue teams scrambling to identify the survivors. The video, seen by WION, showed chaotic scenes amid pools of blood with others rushing to help the wounded. UN asks Israel to 'end unlawful killings' Meanwhile, the United Nations flagged the human rights situation in the West Bank and urged Israel to "end unlawful killings" against the Palestinian population in West Bank. A report released on Thursday (Dec 28) demanded an immediate end to the use of military weapons during law enforcement operations as well as an end to arbitrary detention and ill-treatment of Palestinians, and the lifting of discriminatory movement restrictions. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: UN Security Council adopts resolution to increase Gaza aid × "The use of military tactics and weapons in law enforcement contexts, the use of unnecessary or disproportionate force, and the enforcement of broad, arbitrary and discriminatory movement restrictions that affect Palestinians are extremely troubling," UN rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: UN says several killed in strikes on its facility in Gaza "The intensity of the violence and repression is something that has not been seen in years." The report looked at the human rights situation in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since October 7. The bloodiest-ever war in Gaza erupted when Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7 and killed about 1200 people, mostly civilians. They took 250 hostages, of whom 129 remain inside Gaza, according to Israeli officials, in the worst attack in the country's history. Israel launched extensive aerial bombardment and a siege followed by a ground invasion. The campaign has killed at least 21,110 people, mostly women and children, claims Hamas-run Gaza's health ministry. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Several killed in strike near south Gaza hospital; UN asks Israel to ‘end unlawful killings’

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held talks Wednesday in Mexico in hopes of tackling surging migration, which has become a major political headache for President Joe Biden as he enters an election year.

The unusual Christmas week trip by the top American diplomat was abruptly scheduled as the rival Republican Party presses Biden to crack down on migration as a condition for providing the votes in Congress for one of his key priorities -- support for Ukraine.

Blinken held just over two hours of closed-door talks with President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador and other top Mexican officials during the one-day visit.

Lopez Obrador, who spoke to Biden by telephone last week, said before the meeting that Mexico was "helping a lot" in addressing migration and would continue to do so.

"People leave their towns out of necessity and there's a lot of economic and social crisis in the world. It's necessary to further promote productive activities and job creation," he said.

Around 10,000 people without authorisation are trying to cross the southern US border each day, nearly double the number before the pandemic, with a new caravan of hundreds if not thousands of people heading by foot since the past weekend.

"Nobody's going to stop migration," activist and caravan organizer Luis Garcia Villagran said, complaining that migrants were being treated as "currency" by the US and Mexican governments.

"A budget of billions of dollars is being settled right now to mitigate migration. With all the gold and money in the world, they cannot stop people seeking better living conditions," he told reporters in southern Mexico.

<h2>Legal crossings affected</h2>

US border authorities have been so overwhelmed that they have suspended several legal crossings to focus on processing undocumented migrants.

Reopening those crossings "is a priority for us" given the close trade links between the two countries, Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena told reporters after the talks, which she described as "excellent."

Blinken, whose trip is a break from months of focus on the Middle East crisis, was accompanied by Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas along with White House homeland security advisor Liz Sherwood-Randall.

Mexico, under agreements with both Biden and his predecessor Donald Trump, has agreed at least temporarily to take in migrants seeking to cross into the United States.

The package proposed by Biden to Congress would also fund 1,300 additional Border Patrol agents to help address migration.

The Biden administration has warned that without a deal, Ukraine will soon run out of weapons needed to repel the nearly two-year-old Russian invasion.

On Wednesday, the US State Department announced what it said was the last remaining package of weapons available for Ukraine under existing authorisation and urged Congress to "act swiftly" to renew the flow.&nbsp;

However, Republican hardliners have shown little sign of compromise.

Trump, the frontrunner for the Republican nomination to challenge Biden next November, is again campaigning on stridently anti-immigrant rhetoric, accusing foreigners of "poisoning the blood of our country," language that critics pointed out was similar to that of Adolf Hitler.

<h2>'No magic wand'</h2>

Andrew Rudman, director of the Mexico Institute at the Wilson Center in Washington, expected Blinken to seek additional support from Mexico to keep migrants within its borders, such as temporary work permits.

"The Biden administration wants to show for its own domestic political reasons that they're doing everything they possibly can," he said.

"One of the challenges is that everybody wants a short-term solution to a global, long-standing problem," Rudman said of migration. "There is no magic wand."

Migrants have been fleeing Central American countries ravaged by poverty, violence, and disasters worsened by climate change.

In recent months there has also been an uptick in migrants heading through Mexico from Haiti, which has been devastated by gang violence and a lack of a functioning government, and from Venezuela, where basic goods have fallen in short supply after years of economic chaos.

Maria Alicia Ulloa, a Honduran who is part of the latest caravan, voiced fears that tougher US-Mexican immigration measures would mean returning to a country beset by crime and unemployment.

"We emigrate with the hope of giving a better life to our children, and a better life to the relatives who remain behind," she said.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held talks Wednesday in Mexico in hopes of tackling surging migration, which has become a major political headache for President Joe Biden as he enters an election year.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held talks Wednesday in Mexico in hopes of tackling surging migration, which has become a major political headache for President Joe Biden as he enters an election year. The unusual Christmas week trip by the top American diplomat was abruptly scheduled as the rival Republican Party presses Biden to crack down on migration as a condition for providing the votes in Congress for one of his key priorities -- support for Ukraine. Blinken held just over two hours of closed-door talks with President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador and other top Mexican officials during the one-day visit. Lopez Obrador, who spoke to Biden by telephone last week, said before the meeting that Mexico was "helping a lot" in addressing migration and would continue to do so. "People leave their towns out of necessity and there's a lot of economic and social crisis in the world. It's necessary to further promote productive activities and job creation," he said. Around 10,000 people without authorisation are trying to cross the southern US border each day, nearly double the number before the pandemic, with a new caravan of hundreds if not thousands of people heading by foot since the past weekend. "Nobody's going to stop migration," activist and caravan organizer Luis Garcia Villagran said, complaining that migrants were being treated as "currency" by the US and Mexican governments. "A budget of billions of dollars is being settled right now to mitigate migration. With all the gold and money in the world, they cannot stop people seeking better living conditions," he told reporters in southern Mexico. Legal crossings affected US border authorities have been so overwhelmed that they have suspended several legal crossings to focus on processing undocumented migrants. Reopening those crossings "is a priority for us" given the close trade links between the two countries, Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena told reporters after the talks, which she described as "excellent." Blinken, whose trip is a break from months of focus on the Middle East crisis, was accompanied by Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas along with White House homeland security advisor Liz Sherwood-Randall. Mexico, under agreements with both Biden and his predecessor Donald Trump, has agreed at least temporarily to take in migrants seeking to cross into the United States. The package proposed by Biden to Congress would also fund 1,300 additional Border Patrol agents to help address migration. The Biden administration has warned that without a deal, Ukraine will soon run out of weapons needed to repel the nearly two-year-old Russian invasion. On Wednesday, the US State Department announced what it said was the last remaining package of weapons available for Ukraine under existing authorisation and urged Congress to "act swiftly" to renew the flow. However, Republican hardliners have shown little sign of compromise. Trump, the frontrunner for the Republican nomination to challenge Biden next November, is again campaigning on stridently anti-immigrant rhetoric, accusing foreigners of "poisoning the blood of our country," language that critics pointed out was similar to that of Adolf Hitler. 'No magic wand' Andrew Rudman, director of the Mexico Institute at the Wilson Center in Washington, expected Blinken to seek additional support from Mexico to keep migrants within its borders, such as temporary work permits. "The Biden administration wants to show for its own domestic political reasons that they're doing everything they possibly can," he said. "One of the challenges is that everybody wants a short-term solution to a global, long-standing problem," Rudman said of migration. "There is no magic wand." Migrants have been fleeing Central American countries ravaged by poverty, violence, and disasters worsened by climate change. In recent months there has also been an uptick in migrants heading through Mexico from Haiti, which has been devastated by gang violence and a lack of a functioning government, and from Venezuela, where basic goods have fallen in short supply after years of economic chaos. Maria Alicia Ulloa, a Honduran who is part of the latest caravan, voiced fears that tougher US-Mexican immigration measures would mean returning to a country beset by crime and unemployment. "We emigrate with the hope of giving a better life to our children, and a better life to the relatives who remain behind," she said.

US seeks Mexico's help to tackle surging migration

As the 2024 General Elections are nearing, the opposition alliance, I.N.D.I.A bloc, is having many faces for the PM candidate. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's pitch for Prime Ministership. I.N.D.I.A alliance's Mamata Banerjee & Arvind Kejriwal pitch for Congress' Mallikarjun Kharge. Watch the video to get more insights!

2024 General Elections: Not necessary for I.N.D.I.A bloc to announce PM face, says Sharad Pawar

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