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<p>China's spy agency has reportedly taken help of&nbsp;artificial intelligence (AI) to challenge the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in&nbsp;tracking spies from the United States and other adversaries of China, New York Times reported.</p>

<p>With more resources at its disposal under Chinese leader Xi Jinping, China's primary intelligence agency Ministry of State Security (MSS) now adopts AI and facial recognition technology to compile profiles on individuals of interest, monitoring their movements, contacts, and identifying potential vulnerabilities, the New York Times reported while citing US officials.</p>

<h2><strong>China's use of AI to track spies: What the row is about?</strong></h2>

<p>The United States and China are entangled in a geo-economic tussle over development of advanced technologies — including the semiconductor chips — that have military and civilian applications.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-chip-war-intensify-amid-calls-for-small-yard-high-fence-approach-to-contain-china-618392">US-China chip war intensifies amid calls for 'small yard, high fence' approach to contain Beijing</a></strong></p>

<p>The MSS has been reportedly recruiting informants in the United States by exploiting advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), to gather intelligence on American companies developing emerging technologies with military and civilian applications.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>China's alleged technological espionage: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Beijing's focus on technological espionage reflects Xi Jinping-led country's desire to outfox the United States in emerging technologies, such as AI, quantum computing, and biotechnology.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The MSS is reportedly tasked with acquiring information on these technologies to support China’s economic and military goals.</p>

<h2><strong>The US' response</strong></h2>

<p>The US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has established a China Mission Centre as well as a Technology Intelligence Centre to categorically focus on collecting intelligence on Chinese firms and their advancements in emerging technologies' domain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China, however, has denounced Washington's accusations of technological espionage. The Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin referred to the US as "biggest hacking empire and global cyber thief" worldwide.</p>

<h2><strong>Why it matters?</strong></h2>

<p>The Chinese efforts to edge out the US in the development of advanced technologies remained in spotlight throughout 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/us-china-chip-wars-biden-administration-imposes-new-curbs-on-chip-exports-to-china-651149">US-China chip war: Biden administration imposes new curbs on exports to China</a></strong></p>

<p>In June 2023, the Biden administration took steps to restrict China exports of chips that enable rapid AI development.</p>

<p>In July, China had put curbs on the exports of germanium and gallium, two rare metals used in the manufacturing of semiconductors and electronics. Prior to that,&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">the Netherlands had imposed, in consultation with the United States</a>, new restrictions on the export of the Dutch manufacturer ASML’s advanced chips machinery to China.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;China's semiconductor win, chip breakthrough a big blow to US sanctions</strong></p>

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<p>In October 2023, Washington directed one of the world's top chipmakers, the Santa Clara, California-headquartered Nvidia, to enforce new curbs on the export of its high-end Artificial Intelligence chips to China.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;semiconductor chips, especially the ones instrumental in the development of Artificial Intelligence technologies,&nbsp;are increasingly emerging as pivots of global economy.</p>


China's spy agency has reportedly taken help of artificial intelligence (AI) to challenge the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in tracking spies from the United States and other adversaries of China, New York Times reported.

China's spy agency has reportedly taken help of artificial intelligence (AI) to challenge the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in tracking spies from the United States and other adversaries of China, New York Times reported. With more resources at its disposal under Chinese leader Xi Jinping, China's primary intelligence agency Ministry of State Security (MSS) now adopts AI and facial recognition technology to compile profiles on individuals of interest, monitoring their movements, contacts, and identifying potential vulnerabilities, the New York Times reported while citing US officials. China's use of AI to track spies: What the row is about? The United States and China are entangled in a geo-economic tussle over development of advanced technologies — including the semiconductor chips — that have military and civilian applications. Also read | US-China chip war intensifies amid calls for 'small yard, high fence' approach to contain Beijing The MSS has been reportedly recruiting informants in the United States by exploiting advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), to gather intelligence on American companies developing emerging technologies with military and civilian applications. China's alleged technological espionage: What does it mean? Beijing's focus on technological espionage reflects Xi Jinping-led country's desire to outfox the United States in emerging technologies, such as AI, quantum computing, and biotechnology. The MSS is reportedly tasked with acquiring information on these technologies to support China’s economic and military goals. The US' response The US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has established a China Mission Centre as well as a Technology Intelligence Centre to categorically focus on collecting intelligence on Chinese firms and their advancements in emerging technologies' domain. China, however, has denounced Washington's accusations of technological espionage. The Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin referred to the US as "biggest hacking empire and global cyber thief" worldwide. Why it matters? The Chinese efforts to edge out the US in the development of advanced technologies remained in spotlight throughout 2023. Also read | US-China chip war: Biden administration imposes new curbs on exports to China In June 2023, the Biden administration took steps to restrict China exports of chips that enable rapid AI development. In July, China had put curbs on the exports of germanium and gallium, two rare metals used in the manufacturing of semiconductors and electronics. Prior to that, the Netherlands had imposed, in consultation with the United States, new restrictions on the export of the Dutch manufacturer ASML’s advanced chips machinery to China. Also watch | China's semiconductor win, chip breakthrough a big blow to US sanctions × In October 2023, Washington directed one of the world's top chipmakers, the Santa Clara, California-headquartered Nvidia, to enforce new curbs on the export of its high-end Artificial Intelligence chips to China. The semiconductor chips, especially the ones instrumental in the development of Artificial Intelligence technologies, are increasingly emerging as pivots of global economy.

China adopts Artificial Intelligence to outfox Washington in 'spying game'

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<p>The Michigan Supreme Court on Wednesday rejected an attempt to remove Donald Trump from the crucial swing state's primary ballot next year over his role in the 2021 storming of the US Capitol.</p>

<p>It was the latest in a series of bids to block Trump from appearing on ballots in multiple states under the 14th Amendment, which says officials who take an oath to support the US Constitution are banned from future office if they "engaged in insurrection."</p>

<p>But Michigan's high court said in a brief ruling it was "not persuaded that the questions presented should be reviewed by this court" ahead of the state's February 27 presidential primary.</p>

<p>The decision contrasts with the recent ruling from the Colorado Supreme Court, which kicked Trump off the state's primary ballot over his role in the Capitol riot, which he is accused of inciting.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-barred-from-colorado-ballot-for-role-in-jan-6-attack-on-us-capitol-671523">Trump barred from Colorado ballot for role in January 6 attack on US Capitol</a></strong></p>

<p>Trump hailed the Michigan ruling, slamming a "Desperate Democrat attempt" to stack the deck against him as he seeks another term in the White House.</p>

<p>"This pathetic gambit to rig the Election has failed all across the Country, including in States that have historically leaned heavily toward the Democrats," he posted on Truth Social, his social media platform.</p>

<p>Colorado's highest court issued a stay, or freeze, of its bombshell ruling until January 4 pending an expected appeal by Trump's lawyers to the US Supreme Court.</p>

<p>Granting the Colorado case for review would thrust the country's top court into the center of the White House race, as any ruling it makes on whether Trump engaged in insurrection and on his eligibility could be binding on lower courts nationwide.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Donald Trump shares cryptic dictatorship word cloud</strong></p>

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<p>The Michigan lawsuit was filed in September by Free Speech For People, a pro-democracy advocacy group that also pursued an unsuccessful 14th Amendment challenge against Trump in Minnesota and has filed a case in Oregon.</p>

<p>"The court's decision is disappointing but we will continue, at a later stage, to seek to uphold this critical constitutional provision designed to protect our republic," election lawyer Mark Brewer, who joined the group in the lawsuit, said in a statement.</p>

<p>"Trump led a rebellion and insurrection against the Constitution when he tried to overturn the 2020 presidential election and he is disqualified from ever seeking or holding public office again."</p>

<p>Michigan's lower courts dismissed the case on procedural grounds early in the process, a decision upheld on appeal, meaning the question of whether Trump engaged in insurrection was never addressed.</p>

<p>Justice Elizabeth Welch, one of four Democratic-nominated justices on the seven-member panel, acknowledged the Colorado decision but said that state's election law differed from Michigan's "in a material way" in requiring candidates to be "qualified" to run.</p>

<p>"The appellants have identified no analogous provision in the Michigan Election Law that requires someone seeking the office of President of the United States to attest to their legal qualification to hold the office," Welch wrote.</p>

<p>The 77-year-old Trump is scheduled to go on trial in Washington in March on charges of conspiring to overturn the results of the 2020 election won by Democrat Joe Biden.</p>

<p>He faces similar election-related charges in Georgia and has been indicted in Florida for alleged mishandling of top secret documents after leaving the Oval Office.</p>


The Michigan Supreme Court on Wednesday rejected an attempt to remove Donald Trump from the crucial swing state's primary ballot next year over his role in the 2021 storming of the US Capitol.

The Michigan Supreme Court on Wednesday rejected an attempt to remove Donald Trump from the crucial swing state's primary ballot next year over his role in the 2021 storming of the US Capitol. It was the latest in a series of bids to block Trump from appearing on ballots in multiple states under the 14th Amendment, which says officials who take an oath to support the US Constitution are banned from future office if they "engaged in insurrection." But Michigan's high court said in a brief ruling it was "not persuaded that the questions presented should be reviewed by this court" ahead of the state's February 27 presidential primary. The decision contrasts with the recent ruling from the Colorado Supreme Court, which kicked Trump off the state's primary ballot over his role in the Capitol riot, which he is accused of inciting. Also read | Trump barred from Colorado ballot for role in January 6 attack on US Capitol Trump hailed the Michigan ruling, slamming a "Desperate Democrat attempt" to stack the deck against him as he seeks another term in the White House. "This pathetic gambit to rig the Election has failed all across the Country, including in States that have historically leaned heavily toward the Democrats," he posted on Truth Social, his social media platform. Colorado's highest court issued a stay, or freeze, of its bombshell ruling until January 4 pending an expected appeal by Trump's lawyers to the US Supreme Court. Granting the Colorado case for review would thrust the country's top court into the center of the White House race, as any ruling it makes on whether Trump engaged in insurrection and on his eligibility could be binding on lower courts nationwide. Also watch | Donald Trump shares cryptic dictatorship word cloud × The Michigan lawsuit was filed in September by Free Speech For People, a pro-democracy advocacy group that also pursued an unsuccessful 14th Amendment challenge against Trump in Minnesota and has filed a case in Oregon. "The court's decision is disappointing but we will continue, at a later stage, to seek to uphold this critical constitutional provision designed to protect our republic," election lawyer Mark Brewer, who joined the group in the lawsuit, said in a statement. "Trump led a rebellion and insurrection against the Constitution when he tried to overturn the 2020 presidential election and he is disqualified from ever seeking or holding public office again." Michigan's lower courts dismissed the case on procedural grounds early in the process, a decision upheld on appeal, meaning the question of whether Trump engaged in insurrection was never addressed. Justice Elizabeth Welch, one of four Democratic-nominated justices on the seven-member panel, acknowledged the Colorado decision but said that state's election law differed from Michigan's "in a material way" in requiring candidates to be "qualified" to run. "The appellants have identified no analogous provision in the Michigan Election Law that requires someone seeking the office of President of the United States to attest to their legal qualification to hold the office," Welch wrote. The 77-year-old Trump is scheduled to go on trial in Washington in March on charges of conspiring to overturn the results of the 2020 election won by Democrat Joe Biden. He faces similar election-related charges in Georgia and has been indicted in Florida for alleged mishandling of top secret documents after leaving the Oval Office.

Michigan court rejects bid to ban Trump from 2024 ballot

<p>The United States' two busiest airports on Wednesday became the sight of rallies, as pro-Palestinian protesters blocked morning traffic, engaging in violent skirmishes with the police.</p>

<p>Carrying signs that read "free Palestine" and "divest from genocide", among other things, protesters blocked roads around the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). The coast-to-coast demonstrations, as per Reuters, ended with dozens of arrests.</p>

<h2><strong>Unruly demonstrators</strong></h2>

<p>As per the Los Angeles Police Department, 36 people were taken into custody at LAX, where demonstrators became unruly.</p>

<p>In a statement, the police said, "Protesters threw a police officer to the ground, used construction debris, road signs, tree branches and blocks of concrete to obstruct" a road into the airport. The entrance was reopened within 45 minutes with "no impacts to fights," reported the Los Angeles City News Service.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-claims-hamas-oct-7-attack-retribution-for-killing-of-soleimani-palestinian-militant-group-says-no-674175">Iran claims Hamas Oct 7 attack retribution for killing of&nbsp;Soleimani; Palestinian militant group says 'no'</a></strong></p>

<p>They also attacked "uninvolved passersby in their vehicles," said the statement, adding that most of those arrested have been booked on rioting charges. One person has been detained on battery charges for assaulting a police officer. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In Queens, at the protest near the JFK Airport, 26 people were arrested for disorderly conduct and impeding vehicular traffic, reported the Port Authority Police Department of New York. The roadway was reopened after 20 minutes.</p>

<p>The protests come as the casualties in Gaza continue to increase, and as the UN Health Agency reported that thousands of people are trying to flee fighting. Since the war began nearly three months ago, more than 21,000 have been killed, and another 55,000 have been injured in Gaza, as per the Hamas-run health ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-army-claims-to-have-destroyed-hamas-tunnels-under-gazas-rantisi-hospital-674235">Israeli army claims to have destroyed Hamas' tunnels under Gaza’s Rantisi hospital</a></strong></p>

<p>On Thursday, a report by the UN said the human rights situation in the occupied West Bank was rapidly deteriorating.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Urging Israel to "end unlawful killings" against the Palestinian population, UN rights chief Volker Turk said: "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."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States' two busiest airports on Wednesday became the sight of rallies, as pro-Palestinian protesters blocked morning traffic, engaging in violent skirmishes with the police.

The United States' two busiest airports on Wednesday became the sight of rallies, as pro-Palestinian protesters blocked morning traffic, engaging in violent skirmishes with the police. Carrying signs that read "free Palestine" and "divest from genocide", among other things, protesters blocked roads around the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). The coast-to-coast demonstrations, as per Reuters, ended with dozens of arrests. Unruly demonstrators As per the Los Angeles Police Department, 36 people were taken into custody at LAX, where demonstrators became unruly. In a statement, the police said, "Protesters threw a police officer to the ground, used construction debris, road signs, tree branches and blocks of concrete to obstruct" a road into the airport. The entrance was reopened within 45 minutes with "no impacts to fights," reported the Los Angeles City News Service. Also read | Iran claims Hamas Oct 7 attack retribution for killing of Soleimani; Palestinian militant group says 'no' They also attacked "uninvolved passersby in their vehicles," said the statement, adding that most of those arrested have been booked on rioting charges. One person has been detained on battery charges for assaulting a police officer. In Queens, at the protest near the JFK Airport, 26 people were arrested for disorderly conduct and impeding vehicular traffic, reported the Port Authority Police Department of New York. The roadway was reopened after 20 minutes. The protests come as the casualties in Gaza continue to increase, and as the UN Health Agency reported that thousands of people are trying to flee fighting. Since the war began nearly three months ago, more than 21,000 have been killed, and another 55,000 have been injured in Gaza, as per the Hamas-run health ministry. Also read | Israeli army claims to have destroyed Hamas' tunnels under Gaza’s Rantisi hospital On Thursday, a report by the UN said the human rights situation in the occupied West Bank was rapidly deteriorating. Urging Israel to "end unlawful killings" against the Palestinian population, UN rights chief Volker Turk said: "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." (With inputs from agencies)

Pro-Palestine rallies in US block JFK and LAX airports, dozens arrested as protesters turn unruly

The US government has announced a 250 million dollar Ukraine military aid package, which it says is the last remaining package of weapons available for Ukraine under existing authorization. Congress now must decide whether to keep supporting Kyiv's battle against the Russian invasion.

Congress to decide on Biden's funding requests

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

Donald Trump has scored a victory in his fight against challenges to his eligibility to run for the White House again when Michigan's top court declined to hear a case seeking to disqualify him from the state's presidential primary ballot.

US: Trump wins Michigan state court battle to qualify for primary election ballot

US-Mexico migration talks: Mexican President says need to find root cause of migration

<p>Two Russians have been handed hefty jail terms for reading poetry against Russia's invasion of Ukraine. A court in Moscow on Thursday (Dec 28) handed seven-year jail sentence to Artyom Kamardin (33) and a five-and-a-half-year sentence to Yegor Shtovba (23). According to news agency AFP, supporters of the two men, who were present inside the courtroom, shouted "Shame!" as the jail-terms were announced.</p>

<p>After Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Moscow has dealt with&nbsp;any perceived protest harshly. The criticism of what Russia calls the 'special military operation' has effectively been outlawed.</p>

<p>Artyom Kamardin (33) has reportedly said that he was violently beaten and raped when he was in detention. He said that the officers threatened his girlfriend and made him shoot an apology video.</p>

<p>On the eve of his arrest, Kamardin had recited his poem "Kill me, militia man!". The recitation took place on a square in Moscow where dissidents have held demonstrations since the times of Soviet Russia. He also raised slogans that protested Russian attempts to annex regions in southern Ukraine.</p>

<p>Both Kamardin and Shtovba were found guilty of 'inciting hatred' and "calling for activities threatening state security".</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: U.S. releases final Kyiv aid tranche</strong></p>

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<p>Kamardin said in court that he didn't know that recitation of poetry broke the law.</p>

<p>"I am not a hero, and going to prison for my beliefs was never in my plans," he said in a statement, which was posted on his supporters' Telegram channel.</p>

<p>Shtovba also maintained that he didn't break the law.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-wished-modi-well-for-lok-sabha-elections-heres-what-it-means-for-india-russia-ties-674323">Putin wished Modi well for Lok Sabha elections. Here’s what it means for India-Russia ties</a></strong></p>

<p>"What have I done that's illegal? Read poetry?" he said in court, as per his statement published by independent site Mediazona.</p>

<p>He even mentioned his mother, who he said was financially dependent on him.</p>

<p>"Mom, I know that you, more than anyone, believe in my innocence... Still, I'm sorry for how things turned out, leaving you and dad alone."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-star-studded-almost-naked-party-triggers-severe-backlash-heres-what-happened-674393">Russia's star-studded 'almost naked' party triggers severe backlash | Here's what happened</a></strong></p>

<p>The latest sentences add to string of many that have been handed by Russian courts for perceived dissent against Ukraine invasion.</p>

<p>Just last month, artist Alexandra Skochilenko was sent to prison for seven years after she swapped price-tags in clothes shop with slogans against Russia's military offensive in Ukraine. She did this in Saint Peterburg, in a branch of Russia's largest supermarket chains.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Two Russians have been handed hefty jail terms for reading poetry against Russia's invasion of Ukraine. A court in Moscow on Thursday (Dec 28) handed seven-year jail sentence to Artyom Kamardin (33) and a five-and-a-half-year sentence to Yegor Shtovba (23).

Two Russians have been handed hefty jail terms for reading poetry against Russia's invasion of Ukraine. A court in Moscow on Thursday (Dec 28) handed seven-year jail sentence to Artyom Kamardin (33) and a five-and-a-half-year sentence to Yegor Shtovba (23). According to news agency AFP, supporters of the two men, who were present inside the courtroom, shouted "Shame!" as the jail-terms were announced. After Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Moscow has dealt with any perceived protest harshly. The criticism of what Russia calls the 'special military operation' has effectively been outlawed. Artyom Kamardin (33) has reportedly said that he was violently beaten and raped when he was in detention. He said that the officers threatened his girlfriend and made him shoot an apology video. On the eve of his arrest, Kamardin had recited his poem "Kill me, militia man!". The recitation took place on a square in Moscow where dissidents have held demonstrations since the times of Soviet Russia. He also raised slogans that protested Russian attempts to annex regions in southern Ukraine. Both Kamardin and Shtovba were found guilty of 'inciting hatred' and "calling for activities threatening state security". Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: U.S. releases final Kyiv aid tranche × Kamardin said in court that he didn't know that recitation of poetry broke the law. "I am not a hero, and going to prison for my beliefs was never in my plans," he said in a statement, which was posted on his supporters' Telegram channel. Shtovba also maintained that he didn't break the law. Also Read | Putin wished Modi well for Lok Sabha elections. Here’s what it means for India-Russia ties "What have I done that's illegal? Read poetry?" he said in court, as per his statement published by independent site Mediazona. He even mentioned his mother, who he said was financially dependent on him. "Mom, I know that you, more than anyone, believe in my innocence... Still, I'm sorry for how things turned out, leaving you and dad alone." Also Read | Russia's star-studded 'almost naked' party triggers severe backlash | Here's what happened The latest sentences add to string of many that have been handed by Russian courts for perceived dissent against Ukraine invasion. Just last month, artist Alexandra Skochilenko was sent to prison for seven years after she swapped price-tags in clothes shop with slogans against Russia's military offensive in Ukraine. She did this in Saint Peterburg, in a branch of Russia's largest supermarket chains. (With inputs from agencies)

Two Russians sent to jail for reciting poetry against Ukraine invasion

Israelis trust the IDF significantly more than they trust Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, The Israel Democracy Institute said in its latest Israel Voice Index released on Tuesday, which focused on the war with Hamas.

Israel-Hamas war: Israeli PM Netanyahu's popularity plummets amid war with Hamas

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.

Russia-Ukraine war: U.S. releases aid package for Kyiv provides up to $250 mn of arms & equipment

Russia-Ukraine war: US releases final Kyiv aid tranche, Ukraine welcomes the package

Donald Trump wins Michigan state court battle to qualify for primary election ballot

Donald Trump wins Michigan state court battle to qualify for 2024 election ballot

Latest in Israel-Hamas war: Israel escalates attack on Gaza strip. In a call to Netanyahu, Macron urges 'Lasting Ceasefire' in Gaza. The UN has warned that civilians in Gaza are facing 'Grave Peril.'

Israel-Hamas war: Macron calls Netanyahu, urges ceasefire

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: Armed groups attacks, kill at least 160 in Central Nigeria

<p>India's National Centre for Seismology (NCS) informed that an earthquake of magnitude 6.3 on the Richter scale occurred in Japan's Kuril Islands on Thursday (Dec 28). So far, no casualties have been reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The agency further added that no tsunami warning has been issued as yet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The agency said that the depth of the earthquake was 10 kilometres. It occurred at 2:45 pm (IST) and the epicentre was found to be at a latitude of 44.36 and a longitude of 149.23.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Earthquake of Magnitude:6.3, Occurred on 28-12-2023, 14:45:12 IST, Lat: 44.36 &amp; Long: 149.23, Depth: 10 Km ,Location: Kuril Islands, Japan for more information Download the BhooKamp App <a href="https://t.co/MC1PetvaMs">https://t.co/MC1PetvaMs</a><a href="https://twitter.com/Dr_Mishra1966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dr_Mishra1966</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KirenRijiju?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KirenRijiju</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ndmaindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ndmaindia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Indiametdept?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Indiametdept</a> <a href="https://t.co/rFxNB31JgO">pic.twitter.com/rFxNB31JgO</a></p>
— National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCS_Earthquake/status/1740305187196252352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>The story will be updated with details when available&nbsp;</em></p>


India's National Centre for Seismology (NCS) informed that an earthquake of magnitude 6.3 on the Richter scale occurred in Japan's Kuril Islands on Thursday (Dec 28).

India's National Centre for Seismology (NCS) informed that an earthquake of magnitude 6.3 on the Richter scale occurred in Japan's Kuril Islands on Thursday (Dec 28). So far, no casualties have been reported. The agency further added that no tsunami warning has been issued as yet. The agency said that the depth of the earthquake was 10 kilometres. It occurred at 2:45 pm (IST) and the epicentre was found to be at a latitude of 44.36 and a longitude of 149.23. Earthquake of Magnitude:6.3, Occurred on 28-12-2023, 14:45:12 IST, Lat: 44.36 & Long: 149.23, Depth: 10 Km ,Location: Kuril Islands, Japan for more information Download the BhooKamp App https://t.co/MC1PetvaMs@Dr_Mishra1966 @KirenRijiju @ndmaindia @Indiametdept pic.twitter.com/rFxNB31JgO — National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) December 28, 2023 × The story will be updated with details when available

Earthquake of magnitude 6.3 strikes Japan's Kuril Islands

According to reports, China is stealing artificial intelligence technology in order to launch large cyberattacks against the United States and other countries. According to reports, Chinese spy agency eyes use of AI. China's MSS seeks going toe-to-toe with CIA. watch to get more insights!

China's spy agency MSS seeks going toe-to-toe with CIA

Japan's SLIM lander entered the moon's orbit. As Japan strives to become the fifth country in the world to achieve a successful lunar landing. The Smart Lander for Investigating Moon is slated to execute the landing on the lunar surface on January 20.

Japan's 'SLIM' lunar craft in Moon's orbit

<p>Greece Culture Minister Lina Mendoni said that the country is willing to part with some of its greatest treasures so as to “fill the void” present in the British Museum if they are handed over the Parthenon marbles.</p>

<p>While speaking to the Guardian at the end of the year which marked their campaign for retrieving the fifth-century BC masterpieces, Mendoni vowed that the revered Greek galleries of London institution will never go empty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Our position is clear. Should the sculptures be reunited in Athens, Greece is prepared to organise rotating exhibitions of important antiquities that would fill the void,” she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking about any particular works which have been requested by London, the minister - who is a classical archaeologist by training - said that the discussions between the two countries have not extended to “specific artefacts”.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-parthenon-sculptures-row-triggered-between-united-kingdom-and-greece-663622">Explained: The Parthenon Sculptures row between United Kingdom and Greece</a></p>

<p>However, the minister for the first time gave a glimpse of how far Athens was willing to compensate to the British Museum in return for the sculptures - which are seen as a high point of art in the classical age – adding that any antiquities sent to the UK will also attract a lot of attention.</p>

<p>“[They] would fill the void, maintain, and constantly renew, international visitor interest in the Greek galleries of the British Museum,” said Mendoni, although she cautioned that “any agreement and all its particulars, would have to be in accordance with the Greek law on cultural heritage”.</p>

<h2><strong>UK, Greece discuss cultural exchange</strong></h2>

<p>Although the plan of cultural exchange was mooted after Greece Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis' centre-right New Democracy party came to power in 2019, there have been speculations that treasures, which include Agamemnon’s Mask – the gold funerary mask which has been called the “Mona Lisa of prehistory” by some historians - will be sent to Britain in return for the marbles.</p>

<p>Currently, the two sides have started to speak about “a partnership” which can offer a “win-win” solution in resolving the row. British Museum’s chair George Osborne, while speaking about the steps taken by Athens to reunite the marbles, appeared more determined to handle the issue head-on compared to any of his predecessors.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Greece demands return of 2500-year-old Parthenon sculptures from UK</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/greece-demands-return-of-2500-year-old-parthenon-sculptures-from-uk-world-news-wion-663842/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>He is the first museum chairperson who has acknowledged the controversy regarding the presence of antiquities in the British Museum publicly. In 1816, the marbles were bought by the museum from a bankrupt Lord Elgin, who was a former ambassador to the Ottoman Empire. Lord Elgin had himself got the marbles removed from the Parthenon temple and other places on Athens’ Acropolis with the use of marble saws.</p>

<p>This year, the former chancellor has more than once hinted that a compromise settlement is likely to be in the offing. “We want to create a proper partnership,” said Osborne, while speaking to MPs on the culture, media and sport committee in October. “[One] that would mean objects from Greece coming here, objects that have potentially never left Greece before and certainly never been seen before, and objects from the Parthenon collection potentially travelling to Greece," he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Greece Culture Minister Lina Mendoni said that the country is willing to part with some of its greatest treasures so as to “fill the void” present in the British Museum if they are handed over the Parthenon marbles.

Greece Culture Minister Lina Mendoni said that the country is willing to part with some of its greatest treasures so as to “fill the void” present in the British Museum if they are handed over the Parthenon marbles. While speaking to the Guardian at the end of the year which marked their campaign for retrieving the fifth-century BC masterpieces, Mendoni vowed that the revered Greek galleries of London institution will never go empty. “Our position is clear. Should the sculptures be reunited in Athens, Greece is prepared to organise rotating exhibitions of important antiquities that would fill the void,” she said. Speaking about any particular works which have been requested by London, the minister - who is a classical archaeologist by training - said that the discussions between the two countries have not extended to “specific artefacts”. Also read: Explained: The Parthenon Sculptures row between United Kingdom and Greece However, the minister for the first time gave a glimpse of how far Athens was willing to compensate to the British Museum in return for the sculptures - which are seen as a high point of art in the classical age – adding that any antiquities sent to the UK will also attract a lot of attention. “[They] would fill the void, maintain, and constantly renew, international visitor interest in the Greek galleries of the British Museum,” said Mendoni, although she cautioned that “any agreement and all its particulars, would have to be in accordance with the Greek law on cultural heritage”. UK, Greece discuss cultural exchange Although the plan of cultural exchange was mooted after Greece Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis' centre-right New Democracy party came to power in 2019, there have been speculations that treasures, which include Agamemnon’s Mask – the gold funerary mask which has been called the “Mona Lisa of prehistory” by some historians - will be sent to Britain in return for the marbles. Currently, the two sides have started to speak about “a partnership” which can offer a “win-win” solution in resolving the row. British Museum’s chair George Osborne, while speaking about the steps taken by Athens to reunite the marbles, appeared more determined to handle the issue head-on compared to any of his predecessors. Watch: Greece demands return of 2500-year-old Parthenon sculptures from UK He is the first museum chairperson who has acknowledged the controversy regarding the presence of antiquities in the British Museum publicly. In 1816, the marbles were bought by the museum from a bankrupt Lord Elgin, who was a former ambassador to the Ottoman Empire. Lord Elgin had himself got the marbles removed from the Parthenon temple and other places on Athens’ Acropolis with the use of marble saws. This year, the former chancellor has more than once hinted that a compromise settlement is likely to be in the offing. “We want to create a proper partnership,” said Osborne, while speaking to MPs on the culture, media and sport committee in October. “[One] that would mean objects from Greece coming here, objects that have potentially never left Greece before and certainly never been seen before, and objects from the Parthenon collection potentially travelling to Greece," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Great Greek compromise for Parthenon marbles? Athens agrees to give away its ‘greatest treasures’ to Britain

At least 40 people were killed following the explosion of a gas tanker in north-central Liberia, the West African country's chief medical officer, Francis Kateh, said on Wednesday.

Liberia: Fuel tanker truck explodes after crashing, over 40 feared dead

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (Dec 27) referred to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "friend" whom he wishes "every success" in reference to India's upcoming general elections in the summer of 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said that the "traditional conventional friendly ties" will persist between India and Moscow "no matter what the alignment of political forces" is.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The outcome of upcoming Lok Sabha polls, in which Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party will be seeking a third consecutive term in power, remains very important for India’s foreign policy posture.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Putin's comment that friendly ties will persist between India and Russia "no matter the alignment of political forces", reflects the depth of Moscow-Delhi ties. This geopolitical depth between the two countries, Putin indicated, remains immune to the developments elsewhere in the world, especially during ongoing war in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-invites-pm-modi-to-russia-during-his-meeting-with-eam-jaishankar-674148">Putin invites PM Modi to Russia during his meeting with EAM Jaishankar</a></strong></p>

<p>Putin's comment came hours after India's Foreign Minister Dr S Jaishankar during his visit to Moscow referred to India-Russia ties as the "only constant" in world politics.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Reading into Putin wishing well for Modi: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>In the recent weeks, Putin has expressed notes of praise for Indian Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp; Modi.</p>

<p>"Let me say that the relations between Russia and India are consistently developing in all areas, and the main guarantor for that is the policy led by Prime Minister Modi," Putin had said on December 7 in St. Petersburg.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-putin-praises-india-says-pm-modi-guarantor-of-stronger-moscow-delhi-ties-667297">Putin praises India, says PM Modi 'guarantor' of stronger Moscow-Delhi ties</a></strong></p>

<p>"I cannot imagine His Excellency Modi getting intimidated or being forced to take any steps or actions that would go against the national interests of India and the people of India," Putin said, in an indirect reference to India buying Russian oil despite war in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Russian President Vladimir Putin praises India. Says, PM Modi despite pressure on him, took action which are in interest of India (buying Russian Oil).<br />
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Vdo ctsy: Sputnik <a href="https://t.co/C6cQ1Eh28Z">pic.twitter.com/C6cQ1Eh28Z</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1732753535534821720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>New Delhi has staunchly defended its purchase of Russian oil when accused by the West of ‘funding the war in Ukraine’.</p>

<p>Just two months before launching an offensive on Ukraine in February 2022, Putin visited New Delhi in December 2021 for annual India-Russia summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/putins-actions-in-ukraine-do-not-make-indians-anti-russia-heres-why-613578">Putin’s actions in Ukraine do not make Indians anti-Russia. Here’s why</a></strong></p>

<p>Besides, if the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance returns to power with an&nbsp;as strong or stronger-than-before mandate, India's position of its evolving ties with various countries of the world is expected to remain consistent, if not sharper than now.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>India-Russia ties: What is the bottom-line ahead of 2024 polls?</strong></h2>

<p>The consistency in ties with New Delhi, at a time when Russia is facing isolation from the collective West due to war in Ukraine, remains a geopolitical asset for Moscow's corridors of power. An asset Putin would least want to lose.&nbsp;</p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (Dec 27) referred to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "friend" whom he wishes "every success" in reference to India's upcoming general elections in the summer of 2024.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (Dec 27) referred to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "friend" whom he wishes "every success" in reference to India's upcoming general elections in the summer of 2024. Putin said that the "traditional conventional friendly ties" will persist between India and Moscow "no matter what the alignment of political forces" is. The outcome of upcoming Lok Sabha polls, in which Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party will be seeking a third consecutive term in power, remains very important for India’s foreign policy posture. But Putin's comment that friendly ties will persist between India and Russia "no matter the alignment of political forces", reflects the depth of Moscow-Delhi ties. This geopolitical depth between the two countries, Putin indicated, remains immune to the developments elsewhere in the world, especially during ongoing war in Ukraine. Also read | Putin invites PM Modi to Russia during his meeting with EAM Jaishankar Putin's comment came hours after India's Foreign Minister Dr S Jaishankar during his visit to Moscow referred to India-Russia ties as the "only constant" in world politics. Reading into Putin wishing well for Modi: What does it mean? In the recent weeks, Putin has expressed notes of praise for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "Let me say that the relations between Russia and India are consistently developing in all areas, and the main guarantor for that is the policy led by Prime Minister Modi," Putin had said on December 7 in St. Petersburg. Also read | Putin praises India, says PM Modi 'guarantor' of stronger Moscow-Delhi ties "I cannot imagine His Excellency Modi getting intimidated or being forced to take any steps or actions that would go against the national interests of India and the people of India," Putin said, in an indirect reference to India buying Russian oil despite war in Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin praises India. Says, PM Modi despite pressure on him, took action which are in interest of India (buying Russian Oil). Vdo ctsy: Sputnik pic.twitter.com/C6cQ1Eh28Z — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) December 7, 2023 × New Delhi has staunchly defended its purchase of Russian oil when accused by the West of ‘funding the war in Ukraine’. Just two months before launching an offensive on Ukraine in February 2022, Putin visited New Delhi in December 2021 for annual India-Russia summit. Also read | Putin’s actions in Ukraine do not make Indians anti-Russia. Here’s why Besides, if the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance returns to power with an as strong or stronger-than-before mandate, India's position of its evolving ties with various countries of the world is expected to remain consistent, if not sharper than now. India-Russia ties: What is the bottom-line ahead of 2024 polls? The consistency in ties with New Delhi, at a time when Russia is facing isolation from the collective West due to war in Ukraine, remains a geopolitical asset for Moscow's corridors of power. An asset Putin would least want to lose.

Putin wished Modi well for Lok Sabha elections. Here’s what it means for India-Russia ties

It is believed that China is stealing artificial intelligence technology in order to launch large cyberattacks against the United States and other countries. According to reports, Chinese spy agency eyes use of AI. China's MSS seeks going toe-to-toe with CIA. watch to get more insights!

AI Program to allow Chinese spies to pinpoint targets, says reports

Donald Trump is quite confident about his cameo appearance in the cult classic Home Alone 2. The film, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York featured Donald Trump in a small role which he feels was a game changer and it piqued everyone’s interest in the movie. The film became a subject of discussion when the film’s director Chris Columbus commented on Trump’s feature saying that he bullied his way into the film. Watch the video to get more insights!

Donald Trump claims he was begged to appear in 'Home Alone 2'

Weeks after India and Italy signed a mobility pact aimed at enhancing people-to-people contact between the citizens of two countries, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet on Wednesday (Dec 27) notified the pact. Indian students to get 1 more year of permanent residence in Italy.

Italy to allow 12000 non-seasonal Indian workers under pact

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