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Plastic packaging for fresh fruits and vegetables will be banned from January 1 in France as the country phases out single-use plastic. Fresh food producers say, however, that they aren't ready yet as little alternative has been found to replace plastic packaging.

France to ban plastic packaging for fresh produce in new year

As tensions between the US and China continue to rise, the latter has warned its citizens who are "military fans"&nbsp;against posting photos of things and objects considered sensitive.&nbsp;

This comes as in the age of open-source intelligence, western experts have been using photos posted by amateur enthusiasts to analyse new People Liberation Army (PLA) equipment, as China rapidly modernises its forces.

In a post on WeChat, China's counterpart to WhatsApp, the nation's highly secretive civilian spy agency, the Ministry of State Security warned people, "This is a cool hobby, but you must be very careful," as reported by CNN.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/men-enjoy-significant-advantage-over-women-in-chinese-government-jobs-warns-study-674034">Men enjoy significant advantage over women in Chinese government jobs, says study</a>

"Some individual military enthusiasts severely endanger national military security by illegally obtaining information regarding national defence and disseminating them on the internet."

"With a focus on military airports, ports, national defence and military-industrial units, they drove to or took ferries or planes that pass by designated routes, and clandestinely photographed with telephoto lenses or drones," added the agency, which oversees intelligence and counterintelligence within China and overseas.

As per the Chinese spy agency's post, images online can show the process of construction of warships or aircraft. Some may even disclose operational and technical details of the military hardware, it said.

Based on such videos posted on Weibo, in November, Paris-based Naval News reported that China had begun testing an electromagnetic catapult system for its newest aircraft carrier, The Fujian.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-unification-with-china-will-surely-happen-says-xi-jinping-on-maos-anniversary-673983">Taiwan’s unification with China ‘will surely’ happen, says Xi Jinping on Mao’s anniversary</a>

<h2>Punishment for breaking the rules</h2>

As per CNN, repeat offenders face imprisonment of up to seven years. However, "first-time or occasional offenders" may escape with only a warning.&nbsp;

In recent months, China has increasingly become paranoid about espionage. It heightened efforts to protect its secrets, even launching a social media account dedicated to warning citizens about the dangers of exposing them to the outside world and calling them to join the fight against espionage.

(With inputs from agencies)

As tensions between the US and China continue to rise, the latter has warned its citizens who are "military fans" against posting photos of things and objects considered sensitive.

As tensions between the US and China continue to rise, the latter has warned its citizens who are "military fans" against posting photos of things and objects considered sensitive. This comes as in the age of open-source intelligence, western experts have been using photos posted by amateur enthusiasts to analyse new People Liberation Army (PLA) equipment, as China rapidly modernises its forces. In a post on WeChat, China's counterpart to WhatsApp, the nation's highly secretive civilian spy agency, the Ministry of State Security warned people, "This is a cool hobby, but you must be very careful," as reported by CNN. Also read | Men enjoy significant advantage over women in Chinese government jobs, says study "Some individual military enthusiasts severely endanger national military security by illegally obtaining information regarding national defence and disseminating them on the internet." "With a focus on military airports, ports, national defence and military-industrial units, they drove to or took ferries or planes that pass by designated routes, and clandestinely photographed with telephoto lenses or drones," added the agency, which oversees intelligence and counterintelligence within China and overseas. As per the Chinese spy agency's post, images online can show the process of construction of warships or aircraft. Some may even disclose operational and technical details of the military hardware, it said. Based on such videos posted on Weibo, in November, Paris-based Naval News reported that China had begun testing an electromagnetic catapult system for its newest aircraft carrier, The Fujian. Also read | Taiwan’s unification with China ‘will surely’ happen, says Xi Jinping on Mao’s anniversary Punishment for breaking the rules As per CNN, repeat offenders face imprisonment of up to seven years. However, "first-time or occasional offenders" may escape with only a warning. In recent months, China has increasingly become paranoid about espionage. It heightened efforts to protect its secrets, even launching a social media account dedicated to warning citizens about the dangers of exposing them to the outside world and calling them to join the fight against espionage. (With inputs from agencies)

'Cool hobby, but be very careful': China warns 'military fans' against posting photos of its military hardware

An Israeli airstrike on a residence block in southern Lebanon has killed a Lebanese-Australian man, his wife, and his brother, who the armed group Hezbollah claims was one of their members.

Australians killed by Israeli airstrike in Lebanon

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 tanker explosion: Over 40 feared dead | Death toll expected to rise: Officials | WION

Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar along with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov hailed "very steady and strong" New Delhi-Moscow relations stating that the ties are based on strategic convergence and geopolitical interests and that they are mutually beneficial. In other news,&nbsp;United States President Joe Biden's administration, on Wednesday (Dec 27) announced another tranche of military aid for Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia, worth some $250 million.

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-holds-wide-ranging-talks-with-lavrov-says-india-russia-relations-reflect-geopolitical-realities-674165">India-Russia relations remain very strong as they are based on geopolitical interests, says Lavrov 
 
<img alt="1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d723a1a1-50c5-42bf-8a32-a478f9f5f5d3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20-%202023-12-28T094957.372.png" /></a>

Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar along with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov hailed "very steady and strong" New Delhi-Moscow relations saying that&nbsp;both sides had a "very good session of talks".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-to-release-final-package-of-authorised-military-aid-for-ukraine-amid-deadlock-in-congress-674169">White House to release final package of authorised military aid for Ukraine amid deadlock in Congress 
 
<img alt="2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1c7cdc3e-1e5e-4ac7-9fee-68228cc8aa66" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20-%202023-12-28T095014.265.png" /></a>

The United States President Joe Biden's administration, on Wednesday (Dec 27) announced another tranche of military aid for Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia, worth some $250 million. The latest package marked the last funding available for the war-torn country without fresh approval from Congress where the talks have stalled.&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 Soleimani; Palestinian militant group says 'no' 
 
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As the Israel-Hamas war nears the three-month mark, a new controversy behind the 'real' reason for Hamas' attack on Israel is in the air.&nbsp;Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, a multi-service primary branch of the Iranian Armed Forces, on Wednesday (Dec 27) claimed that the attack was retribution for the assassination of Qassem Soleimani, while Hamas has denied this.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/actor-and-dmdk-founder-leader-vijayakanth-dies-at-71-674189">Actor and DMDK founder-leader Vijayakanth dies at 71 
 
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India's Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) party founder-chief and popular Tamil actor Vijayakanth, passed away at the age of 71 in Chennai on Thursday (Dec 28) following an illness. &nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;US-Mexico agree on slowing down migration; Mexican President Obrador says, 'need to find root cause'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-mexico-agree-on-slowing-down-migration-mexican-president-obrador-says-need-to-find-root-cause-674177/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar along with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov hailed "very steady and strong" New Delhi-Moscow relations stating that the ties are based on strategic convergence and geopolitical interests and that they are mutually beneficial.

Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar along with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov hailed "very steady and strong" New Delhi-Moscow relations stating that the ties are based on strategic convergence and geopolitical interests and that they are mutually beneficial. In other news, United States President Joe Biden's administration, on Wednesday (Dec 27) announced another tranche of military aid for Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia, worth some $250 million. Click on the headlines to read more: India-Russia relations remain very strong as they are based on geopolitical interests, says Lavrov Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar along with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov hailed "very steady and strong" New Delhi-Moscow relations saying that both sides had a "very good session of talks". White House to release final package of authorised military aid for Ukraine amid deadlock in Congress The United States President Joe Biden's administration, on Wednesday (Dec 27) announced another tranche of military aid for Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia, worth some $250 million. The latest package marked the last funding available for the war-torn country without fresh approval from Congress where the talks have stalled. Iran claims Hamas Oct 7 attack retribution for killing of Soleimani; Palestinian militant group says 'no' As the Israel-Hamas war nears the three-month mark, a new controversy behind the 'real' reason for Hamas' attack on Israel is in the air. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, a multi-service primary branch of the Iranian Armed Forces, on Wednesday (Dec 27) claimed that the attack was retribution for the assassination of Qassem Soleimani, while Hamas has denied this. Actor and DMDK founder-leader Vijayakanth dies at 71 India's Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) party founder-chief and popular Tamil actor Vijayakanth, passed away at the age of 71 in Chennai on Thursday (Dec 28) following an illness. WATCH | US-Mexico agree on slowing down migration; Mexican President Obrador says, 'need to find root cause'

Morning news brief: Lavrov says India-Russia relations remain strong, US to send $250mn aid to Ukraine, & more

Twenty-five Indian passengers from the plane grounded in France over suspicions of human trafficking were freed by a judge on Tuesday (Dec 27). This comes, as in India, a day after 276 passengers of the same plane landed in Mumbai, the Special Inspector General of Police (Prevention of Crimes against Women and Children), Maharashtra wrote to the Mumbai police, requesting an investigation into the allegation angle.

<h2>25 freed in France&nbsp;</h2>

Of the 303 passengers abroad in the aeroplane, 25 had stayed back in France. They had applied for political asylum.

Also read |&nbsp;<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>

&nbsp;

A Judge, on Tuesday, ordered their release on formal grounds. As per prosecutors, this was done considering that the head of the border police at France's main Charles de Gaulle airport "had not referred the case" to the judge within the timeframe stipulated by law.&nbsp;

The Bobigny prosecutor office also said that "they (the passengers) are therefore free to do as they please, even if they are in an irregular situation on French territory."

Among the passengers who stayed in France were five minors, who have now been taken into the care of child welfare services.

<h2>Mumbai&nbsp;to investigate human trafficking angle</h2>

Writing to the Mumbai police, Mumbai special IGP, IPS officer Deepak Pandey, as per a Times of India report, asked them to inform his office about the probe. He also asked the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) officials, who had reportedly interrogated the passengers on their arrival back to the country, to submit detailed reports to city police within 24 hours. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/plane-held-in-france-with-303-indian-passengers-onboard-departs-for-mumbai-673434">Plane with Indians grounded in France lands in Mumbai, only 276 passengers return</a>

A plane carrying 276 people landed back in India on Tuesday (Dec 26). Before their release, the passengers were questioned by immigration and law enforcement agencies. However, as per the Sahar police, no case was registered because the immigration officers did not lodge a complaint.

<h2>Background: The flight and alleged human trafficking</h2>

On December 21, 303 Indian passengers had boarded a Legend Airlines' A340 flight operated by Romanian company Legend Airlines in Dubai. The plane had stopped in Vatry, France for refuelling, where, based on a tip-off that alleged the plane was carrying suspected victims of trafficking, it was grounded for four days.

Later, the charge of human trafficking, as per AFP, was dropped after it was established the passengers had boarded the plane of their own free will.

(With inputs from agencies)

Twenty-five Indian passengers from the plane grounded in France over suspicions of human trafficking were freed by a judge on Tuesday (Dec 27). This comes, as in India, a day after 276 passengers of the same plane landed in Mumbai, the Special Inspector General of Police (Prevention of Crimes against Women and Children), Maharashtra wrote to the Mumbai police, requesting an investigation into the allegation angle.

Twenty-five Indian passengers from the plane grounded in France over suspicions of human trafficking were freed by a judge on Tuesday (Dec 27). This comes, as in India, a day after 276 passengers of the same plane landed in Mumbai, the Special Inspector General of Police (Prevention of Crimes against Women and Children), Maharashtra wrote to the Mumbai police, requesting an investigation into the allegation angle. 25 freed in France Of the 303 passengers abroad in the aeroplane, 25 had stayed back in France. They had applied for political asylum. Also read | France plane row: Indian police form teams to bust illegal immigration network A Judge, on Tuesday, ordered their release on formal grounds. As per prosecutors, this was done considering that the head of the border police at France's main Charles de Gaulle airport "had not referred the case" to the judge within the timeframe stipulated by law. The Bobigny prosecutor office also said that "they (the passengers) are therefore free to do as they please, even if they are in an irregular situation on French territory." Among the passengers who stayed in France were five minors, who have now been taken into the care of child welfare services. Mumbai to investigate human trafficking angle Writing to the Mumbai police, Mumbai special IGP, IPS officer Deepak Pandey, as per a Times of India report, asked them to inform his office about the probe. He also asked the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) officials, who had reportedly interrogated the passengers on their arrival back to the country, to submit detailed reports to city police within 24 hours. Also read | Plane with Indians grounded in France lands in Mumbai, only 276 passengers return A plane carrying 276 people landed back in India on Tuesday (Dec 26). Before their release, the passengers were questioned by immigration and law enforcement agencies. However, as per the Sahar police, no case was registered because the immigration officers did not lodge a complaint. Background: The flight and alleged human trafficking On December 21, 303 Indian passengers had boarded a Legend Airlines' A340 flight operated by Romanian company Legend Airlines in Dubai. The plane had stopped in Vatry, France for refuelling, where, based on a tip-off that alleged the plane was carrying suspected victims of trafficking, it was grounded for four days. Later, the charge of human trafficking, as per AFP, was dropped after it was established the passengers had boarded the plane of their own free will. (With inputs from agencies)

France plane row: 25 held in France freed; Mumbai Spl IGP seeks probe into trafficking angle

The tense relations between Canada and India, Canadian authorities are expected to arrest two suspects tied to the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Nijjar killing: Canadian police expected to arrest culprit who are still in Canada | WION

In its statement, ED said, “Former Congress president Sonia Gandhi’s son-in-law Robert Vadra and daughter Priyanka Gandhi Vadra bought land in Haryana through a Delhi-based real estate agent who also sold land to NRI businessman CC Thampi."

ED names Priyanka Gandhi Vadra for first time in money laundering case linked to CC Thampi

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.

Israelis trust IDF more than Netanyahu: Report

The Hamas-run Gaza Strip's health ministry said Wednesday the death toll from the war with&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;now tops 21,000, with a spokesman reporting 195 deaths over 24 hours.

Israel&nbsp;again pounded Gaza with air strikes and shelling after its military chief warned the war raging with Hamas since the Palestinian group's October 7 attacks will last "many more months".

Explosions lit up the sky over the southern Gaza city of Khan Yunis -- a focus of heavy urban combat since the Israeli army said it had largely gained control over Gaza's north.

A strike hit a house near Al-Amal hospital in Khan Yunis, killing 22 people and wounding 34, the Gaza health ministry said.

Heavy firefights also raged again around Gaza City in the north, while an air strike wounded 11 people near Rafah, a far-southern city crowded with internally displaced people, witnesses said.

Gaza's spiralling humanitarian crisis has amplified calls for an end to the hostilities.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly vowed to keep up the campaign to destroy Hamas, an Islamist group blacklisted as a "terrorist" organisation by the United States and the European Union.

"This war's objectives are essential and not simple to achieve," armed forces chief Herzi Halevi said Tuesday. "Therefore, the war will continue for many more months."

The conflict erupted when Hamas gunmen attacked southern&nbsp;Israel, resulting in the deaths of about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli figures.

Palestinian militants also took around 250 hostages, 129 of whom remain in captivity,&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;says.

Israel&nbsp;retaliated with a relentless bombardment and a siege of Gaza followed by a ground invasion from October 27.

The campaign has killed at least 21,110 people, according to the latest toll issued by Gaza's health ministry, about two thirds of them women and children.

Israel's army blames Hamas and its allied armed groups for the high civilian death toll, charging that fighters hide in schools, hospitals and other civilian infrastructure, or in tunnels below them.

The army said the number of Israeli soldiers killed inside Gaza had risen to 164.

Israel&nbsp;on Tuesday returned the bodies of 80 Palestinians killed in Gaza, after checking there were no hostages among them, via the Red Cross, sources in the health ministry said.&nbsp;

An AFP photographer witnessed a digger lowering the human remains in blue body bags into a mass grave in Rafah.

<h2>'Beyond a catastrophe'&nbsp;</h2>

Gaza's 2.4 million people have suffered severe shortages of water, food, fuel and medicines, with only limited aid entering the territory.&nbsp;

An estimated 1.9 million Gazans have been displaced, the UN says.

AFPTV footage showed Palestinians who had been sheltering in a UN-run school in central Gaza's Nuseirat refugee camp fleeing south, seeking safety from the bombardment.

Displaced Gazans "don't know where to go", said one of them, declining to be named. "First, we're displaced to Nuseirat, then to Rafah."

Even schools "are no longer safe" in Gaza, said the man.

"A solution must be reached... Implement a ceasefire instead of bringing in aid."

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas,&nbsp;in an interview on Egyptian television, charged that the Gaza war "goes beyond a catastrophe and a genocide".

"Netanyahu's plan is to get rid of the Palestinians and the Palestinian Authority," said Abbas, who is based in the occupied West Bank.

The UN Security Council, in a resolution last week, called for the "safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance at scale".

The resolution, which did not call for an immediate end to the fighting, effectively leaves&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;with operational oversight of aid deliveries.

In Rafah, hundreds turned up at the Abdul Salam Yassin water company carrying baskets, pulling handcarts and even pushing a wheelchair stacked with bottles to queue for clean water.

"This was my father's cart," said Rafah resident Amir al-Zahhar. "He was martyred during the war. He used it to transport and sell fish, and now we are using it to transport fresh water."

Elsewhere in Rafah, people split logs and stacked kindling as the lack of fuel forced them to burn wood for cooking and to keep warm.

Internet and telephone services that were cut on Tuesday were gradually being restored in central and southern areas of Gaza, the Palestinian telecommunications company Paltel said on X, formerly Twitter.

<h2>Mideast tensions&nbsp;</h2>

Violence has also flared across the West Bank, with more than 310 Palestinians killed by Israeli troops or settlers since October 7, the health ministry there said.

An Israeli operation in a refugee camp in the northern West Bank killed six people early Wednesday, it said, with the army saying it had struck the Nur Shams camp from the air.

The war has reverberated across the Middle East, drawing in armed groups backed by&nbsp;Israel's arch foe Iran in Lebanon, Iraq, Syria and Yemen.

An Israeli air strike on a Lebanon border town killed a Hezbollah fighter, the group said Wednesday, with state media reporting two of his relatives were also killed.

Hezbollah later Wednesday said it launched a barrage of 30 rockets towards northern&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;"in response to the enemy's repeated crimes".

In Syria, an Israeli strike Monday killed Iranian general Razi Moussavi, a senior commander in the Quds Force, the foreign operations arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Iran has vowed to avenge the death of Moussavi, whose body was due to be repatriated for burial after memorial prayers at the Shiite holy sites in Iraq on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Yemen's Huthi rebels have repeatedly fired at&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;and at passing cargo ships in the Red Sea in attacks in solidarity with Hamas.

US military forces shot down more than a dozen Huthi attack drones and several missiles, the Pentagon said, reporting no casualties or damage.

Israel's military said Tuesday a fighter jet over the Red Sea had intercepted "a hostile aerial target that was on its way to Israeli territory".

The Hamas-run Gaza Strip's health ministry said Wednesday the death toll from the war with Israel now tops 21,000, with a spokesman reporting 195 deaths over 24 hours.

The Hamas-run Gaza Strip's health ministry said Wednesday the death toll from the war with Israel now tops 21,000, with a spokesman reporting 195 deaths over 24 hours. Israel again pounded Gaza with air strikes and shelling after its military chief warned the war raging with Hamas since the Palestinian group's October 7 attacks will last "many more months". Explosions lit up the sky over the southern Gaza city of Khan Yunis -- a focus of heavy urban combat since the Israeli army said it had largely gained control over Gaza's north. A strike hit a house near Al-Amal hospital in Khan Yunis, killing 22 people and wounding 34, the Gaza health ministry said. Heavy firefights also raged again around Gaza City in the north, while an air strike wounded 11 people near Rafah, a far-southern city crowded with internally displaced people, witnesses said. Gaza's spiralling humanitarian crisis has amplified calls for an end to the hostilities. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly vowed to keep up the campaign to destroy Hamas, an Islamist group blacklisted as a "terrorist" organisation by the United States and the European Union. "This war's objectives are essential and not simple to achieve," armed forces chief Herzi Halevi said Tuesday. "Therefore, the war will continue for many more months." The conflict erupted when Hamas gunmen attacked southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli figures. Palestinian militants also took around 250 hostages, 129 of whom remain in captivity, Israel says. Israel retaliated with a relentless bombardment and a siege of Gaza followed by a ground invasion from October 27. The campaign has killed at least 21,110 people, according to the latest toll issued by Gaza's health ministry, about two thirds of them women and children. Israel's army blames Hamas and its allied armed groups for the high civilian death toll, charging that fighters hide in schools, hospitals and other civilian infrastructure, or in tunnels below them. The army said the number of Israeli soldiers killed inside Gaza had risen to 164. Israel on Tuesday returned the bodies of 80 Palestinians killed in Gaza, after checking there were no hostages among them, via the Red Cross, sources in the health ministry said. An AFP photographer witnessed a digger lowering the human remains in blue body bags into a mass grave in Rafah. 'Beyond a catastrophe' Gaza's 2.4 million people have suffered severe shortages of water, food, fuel and medicines, with only limited aid entering the territory. An estimated 1.9 million Gazans have been displaced, the UN says. AFPTV footage showed Palestinians who had been sheltering in a UN-run school in central Gaza's Nuseirat refugee camp fleeing south, seeking safety from the bombardment. Displaced Gazans "don't know where to go", said one of them, declining to be named. "First, we're displaced to Nuseirat, then to Rafah." Even schools "are no longer safe" in Gaza, said the man. "A solution must be reached... Implement a ceasefire instead of bringing in aid." Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas, in an interview on Egyptian television, charged that the Gaza war "goes beyond a catastrophe and a genocide". "Netanyahu's plan is to get rid of the Palestinians and the Palestinian Authority," said Abbas, who is based in the occupied West Bank. The UN Security Council, in a resolution last week, called for the "safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance at scale". The resolution, which did not call for an immediate end to the fighting, effectively leaves Israel with operational oversight of aid deliveries. In Rafah, hundreds turned up at the Abdul Salam Yassin water company carrying baskets, pulling handcarts and even pushing a wheelchair stacked with bottles to queue for clean water. "This was my father's cart," said Rafah resident Amir al-Zahhar. "He was martyred during the war. He used it to transport and sell fish, and now we are using it to transport fresh water." Elsewhere in Rafah, people split logs and stacked kindling as the lack of fuel forced them to burn wood for cooking and to keep warm. Internet and telephone services that were cut on Tuesday were gradually being restored in central and southern areas of Gaza, the Palestinian telecommunications company Paltel said on X, formerly Twitter. Mideast tensions Violence has also flared across the West Bank, with more than 310 Palestinians killed by Israeli troops or settlers since October 7, the health ministry there said. An Israeli operation in a refugee camp in the northern West Bank killed six people early Wednesday, it said, with the army saying it had struck the Nur Shams camp from the air. The war has reverberated across the Middle East, drawing in armed groups backed by Israel's arch foe Iran in Lebanon, Iraq, Syria and Yemen. An Israeli air strike on a Lebanon border town killed a Hezbollah fighter, the group said Wednesday, with state media reporting two of his relatives were also killed. Hezbollah later Wednesday said it launched a barrage of 30 rockets towards northern Israel "in response to the enemy's repeated crimes". In Syria, an Israeli strike Monday killed Iranian general Razi Moussavi, a senior commander in the Quds Force, the foreign operations arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Iran has vowed to avenge the death of Moussavi, whose body was due to be repatriated for burial after memorial prayers at the Shiite holy sites in Iraq on Wednesday. Yemen's Huthi rebels have repeatedly fired at Israel and at passing cargo ships in the Red Sea in attacks in solidarity with Hamas. US military forces shot down more than a dozen Huthi attack drones and several missiles, the Pentagon said, reporting no casualties or damage. Israel's military said Tuesday a fighter jet over the Red Sea had intercepted "a hostile aerial target that was on its way to Israeli territory".

Gaza deaths soar as Israel says war to last 'many more months'

Twenty-five Indian passengers seeking asylum in France after their flight from the UAE was grounded last week have been freed.

India-France row: 25 Indians released on 'formal grounds', Mumbai police to probe trafficking angle

Top Biden administration officials huddled with Mexico’s president in urgent talks Wednesday to slow the record pace of illegal crossings at the U.S. southern border, just as congressional negotiators raced to reach a deal to tighten America’s immigration laws.

US-Mexico migration talks: Mexican President agrees to help control migrant surge

This summer, towns from Maui to the Mediterranean have been devastated by wildfires caused by climate change, which has left many dead, worn out firefighters, and increased need for innovative solutions. AI-enabled cameras are being used by entrepreneurs and firefighters to search the horizon for smoke. In order to detect fires from orbit, a German business is constructing a constellation of satellites. Additionally, Microsoft is utilizing AI algorithms to forecast the potential locations of future fires.

2023, deadliest year for wildfires: Forest fire destroyed 400 million hectares of land worldwide

India's Migration and Mobility Agreement with Italy received ex-post facto approval from the Union Cabinet on Wednesday. The pact between the two nations signed on November 2, would ensure temporary residence for Indian students in Italy for up to one year after studies to gather professional experience.

India-Italy move forward in ‘Melodi’ era with approval of key migration and mobility pact

India's Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Wednesday (Dec 27) hailed the "very strong" and "very steady" relationship between New Delhi and Moscow as he met his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov to discuss bilateral cooperation in different spheres, international strategic situation, conflicts and tensions.&nbsp;

Jaishankar, who is currently on a five-day visit to Russia, said, "Our relations have been very strong, very steady. And I think we have lived up to a special and privileged strategic partnership."&nbsp;

He noted that it was his seventh meeting with Lavrov. He said this year "We have already met six times, and this is our seventh meeting".&nbsp;

The Indian foreign minister said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin have been in frequent contact as he noted that forums like G20, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, ASEAN, and BRICS allowed many more regular contacts.&nbsp;

Jaishankar said, "We will discuss the international strategic situation, conflicts and tensions, also focus on development challenges that the Global South faces and of course the multilateralism and the building of a multipolar world order."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-will-wipe-out-terrorism-from-jammu-and-kashmir-says-rajnath-singh-674017">Indian Army will wipe out terrorism from Jammu and Kashmir, says Rajnath Singh</a>&nbsp;

"I will also mention our presence at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum at the Far Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok at the meetings. And on the bilateral economic cooperation, the India, Russia intergovernmental commission, which I had co-chaired with Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov," Jaishankar said.&nbsp;

"We are very glad to see continued progress and we expect a strong Russian participation at the Vibrant Gujarat meeting in January," he added.&nbsp;

India expects a strong Russian partnership at the Gujarat meeting in January, Jaishankar said, further adding that he and Lavrov will discuss the international strategic situation, conflicts and tensions.&nbsp;

"We expect strong Russian participation at the Vibrant Gujarat meeting in January, including lot of governors from the Far-East. So today I think our meeting. We will focus on bilateral cooperation in different spheres, adjusting it to changing circumstances and demands," Jaishankar said.&nbsp;

"We will discuss the international strategic situation, conflicts and tensions, where they are, also focus on development challenges that the Global South faces. And of course, the state of multilateralism and the building of a multipolar world order. Look forward to our discussions once again," he added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-borders-troops-on-toes-against-hordes-of-drug-carrying-drones-from-pakistan-674012">Indian&nbsp;borders troops on toes against hordes of drug-carrying drones from Pakistan</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Poonch Terror Attack: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reviews security situation in J&amp;K&nbsp;

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<h2>Lavrov says 'reliable partnership'&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, Lavrov said the relations between India and Russia are very long and very good and it's good to see that they're moving on consistently in the present moment.&nbsp;

In his opening remarks at the meeting, Lavrov said, "Our relationship is very long and very good and it's good to see they are moving consistently in the present moment. We have a reliable partnership and it's been confirmed by our bilateral relations based on the agreements by Prime Minister Modi and President Putin."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India's Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Wednesday (Dec 27) hailed the "very strong" and "very steady" relationship between New Delhi and Moscow as he met his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov to discuss bilateral cooperation in different spheres, international strategic situation, conflicts and tensions.

India's Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Wednesday (Dec 27) hailed the "very strong" and "very steady" relationship between New Delhi and Moscow as he met his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov to discuss bilateral cooperation in different spheres, international strategic situation, conflicts and tensions. Jaishankar, who is currently on a five-day visit to Russia, said, "Our relations have been very strong, very steady. And I think we have lived up to a special and privileged strategic partnership." He noted that it was his seventh meeting with Lavrov. He said this year "We have already met six times, and this is our seventh meeting". The Indian foreign minister said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin have been in frequent contact as he noted that forums like G20, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, ASEAN, and BRICS allowed many more regular contacts. Jaishankar said, "We will discuss the international strategic situation, conflicts and tensions, also focus on development challenges that the Global South faces and of course the multilateralism and the building of a multipolar world order." Also read: Indian Army will wipe out terrorism from Jammu and Kashmir, says Rajnath Singh "I will also mention our presence at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum at the Far Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok at the meetings. And on the bilateral economic cooperation, the India, Russia intergovernmental commission, which I had co-chaired with Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov," Jaishankar said. "We are very glad to see continued progress and we expect a strong Russian participation at the Vibrant Gujarat meeting in January," he added. India expects a strong Russian partnership at the Gujarat meeting in January, Jaishankar said, further adding that he and Lavrov will discuss the international strategic situation, conflicts and tensions. "We expect strong Russian participation at the Vibrant Gujarat meeting in January, including lot of governors from the Far-East. So today I think our meeting. We will focus on bilateral cooperation in different spheres, adjusting it to changing circumstances and demands," Jaishankar said. "We will discuss the international strategic situation, conflicts and tensions, where they are, also focus on development challenges that the Global South faces. And of course, the state of multilateralism and the building of a multipolar world order. Look forward to our discussions once again," he added. Also read: Indian borders troops on toes against hordes of drug-carrying drones from Pakistan Watch: Poonch Terror Attack: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reviews security situation in J&K × Lavrov says 'reliable partnership' Meanwhile, Lavrov said the relations between India and Russia are very long and very good and it's good to see that they're moving on consistently in the present moment. In his opening remarks at the meeting, Lavrov said, "Our relationship is very long and very good and it's good to see they are moving consistently in the present moment. We have a reliable partnership and it's been confirmed by our bilateral relations based on the agreements by Prime Minister Modi and President Putin." (With inputs from agencies)

Jaishankar hails ‘very strong’ and ‘very steady’ Indo-Russia ties as he meets Russian counterpart Lavrov

Israel's military chief, asked on Tuesday about a reported Israeli strike that killed a senior adviser in Iran's Revolutionary Guards in Syria, declined to comment but said Israeli forces work throughout the region.

An Israeli air strike outside the Syrian capital Damascus on Monday killed a senior adviser in Iran's Revolutionary Guards, three security sources and Iranian state media said.

Gravitas | Sayyed Reza Mousavi: Iran's senior commander killed in Israeli airstrike

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"I will not comment on various actions we take. The IDF (Israel Defence Forces) is working together with other security organizations throughout the Middle East, within the borders of the state, around the borders of the state," Herzi Halevi told reporters near Gaza when asked about the strike.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-mulling-over-increasing-defence-spending-by-us8-billion-in-2024-673740">Israel mulling over increasing defence spending by US$8 billion in 2024</a>

"We take whatever action necessary to make it very clear that we are very determined to defend the country, are willing to go far," Chief of the General Staff Halevi said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/internet-phone-services-again-disrupted-across-gaza-israel-says-war-will-last-for-many-more-months-673811">Internet, phone services again disrupted across Gaza, Israel says war will last ‘for many more months’</a>

The adviser, known as Sayyed Razi Mousavi, was responsible for coordinating the military alliance between Syria and Iran. The Revolutionary Guards said Israel would suffer for killing Mousavi, who held the Guards' rank of brigadier-general.

Israel's military chief, asked on Tuesday about a reported Israeli strike that killed a senior adviser in Iran's Revolutionary Guards in Syria, declined to comment but said Israeli forces work throughout the region.

Israel's military chief, asked on Tuesday about a reported Israeli strike that killed a senior adviser in Iran's Revolutionary Guards in Syria, declined to comment but said Israeli forces work throughout the region. An Israeli air strike outside the Syrian capital Damascus on Monday killed a senior adviser in Iran's Revolutionary Guards, three security sources and Iranian state media said. Gravitas | Sayyed Reza Mousavi: Iran's senior commander killed in Israeli airstrike × "I will not comment on various actions we take. The IDF (Israel Defence Forces) is working together with other security organizations throughout the Middle East, within the borders of the state, around the borders of the state," Herzi Halevi told reporters near Gaza when asked about the strike. Also Read | Israel mulling over increasing defence spending by US$8 billion in 2024 "We take whatever action necessary to make it very clear that we are very determined to defend the country, are willing to go far," Chief of the General Staff Halevi said. Also Read | Internet, phone services again disrupted across Gaza, Israel says war will last ‘for many more months’ The adviser, known as Sayyed Razi Mousavi, was responsible for coordinating the military alliance between Syria and Iran. The Revolutionary Guards said Israel would suffer for killing Mousavi, who held the Guards' rank of brigadier-general.

Israel acts wherever it has to, army chief says after Syria strike

Nine IDF soldiers were wounded, one seriously, in an anti-tank guided missile attack in northern Israel on Tuesday, while evacuating a civilian who had been injured in an earlier Hezbollah attack on a church, the army said.

9 soldiers injured rescuing elderly man wounded in Hezbollah strike on church

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephonic conversation with Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin-Salman - the two leaders discussed maritime security amid tensions in the Red Sea.

India PM Modi discusses maritime security with Saudi Crown Prince MBS | WION Newspoint

The&nbsp;Japanese&nbsp;government&nbsp;will&nbsp;freeze&nbsp;assets&nbsp;and&nbsp;impose&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;on&nbsp;payments&nbsp;and&nbsp;capital&nbsp;transactions&nbsp;on&nbsp;three&nbsp;senior&nbsp;Hamas&nbsp;members,&nbsp;Chief&nbsp;Cabinet&nbsp;Secretary&nbsp;Yoshimasa&nbsp;Hayashi&nbsp;said&nbsp;on&nbsp;Tuesday (Dec 26).

The&nbsp;three&nbsp;individuals&nbsp;were&nbsp;believed&nbsp;to be&nbsp;involved&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Oct.&nbsp;7&nbsp;attack&nbsp;by&nbsp;Hamas&nbsp;on&nbsp;Israel&nbsp; and&nbsp;in a&nbsp;position&nbsp;to&nbsp;use&nbsp;funds&nbsp;to&nbsp;finance&nbsp;such&nbsp;terrorist&nbsp;activities, the&nbsp;top&nbsp;Japanese&nbsp; government&nbsp;spokesperson&nbsp;said.

The Japanese government will freeze assets and impose sanctions on payments and capital transactions on three senior Hamas members, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said on Tuesday (Dec 26).

The Japanese government will freeze assets and impose sanctions on payments and capital transactions on three senior Hamas members, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said on Tuesday (Dec 26). The three individuals were believed to be involved in the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas on Israel and in a position to use funds to finance such terrorist activities, the top Japanese government spokesperson said.

Japan to impose sanctions on three senior Hamas members

A key parliamentary committee of the Turkish parliament on Tuesday (Dec 26) gave its seal of approval for Sweden's bid to join the North Atlantic Treaty Association (NATO) following months of delays. This represents the clearing of another hurdle in the way Sweden's application to join the alliance in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Inclusion of new members in the NATO requires approval of all existing members and Sweden's bid encountered significant delays due to opposition from Turkey and Hungary. The process faced further complications as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan linked Sweden's inclusion to Turkey's request for F-16 fighter jets from the United States.

Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Following the invasion, Sweden and Finland moved away from their decades-old stand of military non-alignment and applied to join NATO.

Watch | Turkey intensifies airstrikes against Kurdish groups in Syria, Northern Iraq

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All NATO members other than Turkey and Hungary approved the request. Both the countries eventually relented over Finland and it joined the alliance in April this year. Finland became 31st member of NATO.

Turkey and Hungary are yet to ratify Sweden's bid even 19 months after its initial application.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/turkey-luxury-cars-seized-from-criminal-gangs-turned-into-traffic-police-vehicles-673743">Turkey: Luxury cars seized from criminal gangs turned into traffic police vehicles</a>

Sweden's application has now been approved by Turkish parliament's foreign affairs committee.

"The protocol (on Sweden's NATO accession) passed the committee," opposition CHP party lawmaker Utku Cakirozer, a member of the foreign affairs committee, told AFP after the vote. &nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-eight-civilians-killed-after-turkish-strikes-on-syria-673699">At least eight civilians killed after Turkish strikes on Syria</a>

Next step is the parliament vote on the measure. Erdogan's ruling alliance has a majority in the Turkish parliament. It was not immediately declared when will the full parliament hold its vote.

<h2>The holdup</h2>

Turkey for long had been saying that Sweden was not taking adequate measures against pro-Kurdistan elements in Sweden which Turkey calls terrorists.

After Stockholm's crackdown on these groups, Erdogan lifted his objections in July.

NATO members have increased pressure on Turkey to fast-track the process of final approval. France has also said that credibility of the alliance was "at stake"

(With inputs from agencies)

A key parliamentary committee of the Turkish parliament on Tuesday (Dec 26) gave its seal of approval for Sweden's bid to join the North Atlantic Treaty Association (NATO) following months of delays.

A key parliamentary committee of the Turkish parliament on Tuesday (Dec 26) gave its seal of approval for Sweden's bid to join the North Atlantic Treaty Association (NATO) following months of delays. This represents the clearing of another hurdle in the way Sweden's application to join the alliance in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Inclusion of new members in the NATO requires approval of all existing members and Sweden's bid encountered significant delays due to opposition from Turkey and Hungary. The process faced further complications as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan linked Sweden's inclusion to Turkey's request for F-16 fighter jets from the United States. Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Following the invasion, Sweden and Finland moved away from their decades-old stand of military non-alignment and applied to join NATO. Watch | Turkey intensifies airstrikes against Kurdish groups in Syria, Northern Iraq × All NATO members other than Turkey and Hungary approved the request. Both the countries eventually relented over Finland and it joined the alliance in April this year. Finland became 31st member of NATO. Turkey and Hungary are yet to ratify Sweden's bid even 19 months after its initial application. Also Read | Turkey: Luxury cars seized from criminal gangs turned into traffic police vehicles Sweden's application has now been approved by Turkish parliament's foreign affairs committee. "The protocol (on Sweden's NATO accession) passed the committee," opposition CHP party lawmaker Utku Cakirozer, a member of the foreign affairs committee, told AFP after the vote. Also Read | At least eight civilians killed after Turkish strikes on Syria Next step is the parliament vote on the measure. Erdogan's ruling alliance has a majority in the Turkish parliament. It was not immediately declared when will the full parliament hold its vote. The holdup Turkey for long had been saying that Sweden was not taking adequate measures against pro-Kurdistan elements in Sweden which Turkey calls terrorists. After Stockholm's crackdown on these groups, Erdogan lifted his objections in July. NATO members have increased pressure on Turkey to fast-track the process of final approval. France has also said that credibility of the alliance was "at stake" (With inputs from agencies)

Turkish parliamentary committee greenlights Sweden’s NATO bid

Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, whose whereabouts had been unknown for over two weeks, said on Tuesday (Dec 26) that he was fine after a "pretty exhausting" 20-day transfer to a penal colony beyond the Arctic Circle.

Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, whose whereabouts had been unknown for over two weeks, said on Tuesday (Dec 26) that he was fine after a "pretty exhausting" 20-day transfer to a penal colony beyond the Arctic Circle. In a post on X, Navalny said, "Don't worry about me. I'm fine. I'm totally relieved that I've finally made it." "I'm still in a good mood, as befits a Santa Claus," he added. Navalny was tracked down to the penal colony called 'Polar Wolf', his spokesperson told the news agency Reuters on Monday. "We find Alexei, after three weeks of search, in polar region, in the north of Russia, in a settlement called Kharp, in penal colony number 3. It is penal colony of special regime," Kira Yarmysh told Reuters. Also read: US calls out Russia over its 'malicious targeting' of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny "The lawyer saw him today, so he is well, especially given the fact that he was transferred for three weeks, to this place, so this is the information I have right now," she added. Deeply concerned for Navalny's wellbeing: US Earlier, the US State Department said it remained for the Kremlin critic's well-being. "We welcome reports that Mr Navalny has been located. However, we remain deeply concerned for Mr. Navalny's well-being and the conditions of his unjust detention," a State Department spokesperson said on Monday. "We have conveyed to the Russian government that they are responsible for what happens to Mr Navalny in their custody," the spokesperson added and called for Navalny's immediate release and accused Russia of repressing independent voices in the country. Before being imprisoned in 2021, Navalny mobilised huge anti-government protests in Russia. He has spent most of his detention at the IK-6 penal colony in the Vladimir region, some 250 kilometres (155 miles) east of Moscow. In August, a court extended his sentence to 19 years on extremism charges and ruled he be moved to a harsher "special regime" prison for particularly dangerous prisoners. (With inputs from agencies)

‘I’m fine’: Kremlin critic Navalny after his transfer to penal colony beyond Arctic Circle

Houthis claim responsibility for drone attack on Israeli port city of Eilat, Red Sea commercial vessel. Watch the video to know more.

Another Houthi attack in Red Sea, launch drones over Israel's Eilat | WION Newspoint

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology - IIT Madras - have succesfully developed a 3D printed face implants for Black Fungus disease also known as Mucormycosis.

IIT Madras researchers develop 3D printed face implants for Black Fungus patients

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.&nbsp;

As quoted by state media, Putin said, "We will be glad to see our friend, Mr Prime Minister Modi in Russia."&nbsp;

Putin told Jaishankar that Russia and India's trade turnover is increasing, driven by sectors such as oil and high technology, as reported by TASS.&nbsp;

"Our trade turnover is growing, for the second year in a row at the same time and at a steady pace. The growth rate this year is even higher than in the last year," Russia's head of state said.&nbsp;

Putin also said that he would discuss the conflict in Ukraine with the Indian foreign minister. The Russian president said, "We know Prime Minister [Narendra] Modi's position and we have repeatedly spoken about this — the position concerning his attitude to complex processes, including hotspots, to the situation in Ukraine."&nbsp;

"I have repeatedly informed him about the situation around this conflict. I know about his desire to do everything to resolve this problem peacefully, but we will now talk more about it. We will provide you with additional information about this situation," Putin added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-will-wipe-out-terrorism-from-jammu-and-kashmir-says-rajnath-singh-674017">Indian Army will wipe out terrorism from Jammu and Kashmir, says Rajnath Singh</a>&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Jaishankar met with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov and held a wide-ranging and useful meeting to discuss the international situation and contemporary issues.&nbsp;

In a post on X, Jaishankar said, "Exchanged views on Indo-Pacific, the Ukraine conflict, the Gaza situation, Afghanistan and Central Asia, BRICS, SCO, G20 and the UN."&nbsp;

He also said that both of them noted the progress in our economic cooperation, energy trade, connectivity efforts, military-technical cooperation and people-to-people exchanges.&nbsp;

He said that India and Russia also signed a Protocol on Consultations for the period 2024-28.&nbsp;

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Opening remarks at the meeting with FM Sergey Lavrov of Russia. <a href="https://t.co/o7vfav0kCd">https://t.co/o7vfav0kCd</a>
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On Tuesday, Jaishankar held a "comprehensive and productive" meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Manturov on the bilateral economic cooperation during which they witnessed the signing of some "very important" agreements related to the construction of the future power-generating units of the Kudankulam nuclear power plant in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

The ties between India and Russia remained strong notwithstanding Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. India has not yet condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine and it has been maintaining that the crisis must be resolved through diplomacy and dialogue.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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.

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. As quoted by state media, Putin said, "We will be glad to see our friend, Mr Prime Minister Modi in Russia." Putin told Jaishankar that Russia and India's trade turnover is increasing, driven by sectors such as oil and high technology, as reported by TASS. "Our trade turnover is growing, for the second year in a row at the same time and at a steady pace. The growth rate this year is even higher than in the last year," Russia's head of state said. Putin also said that he would discuss the conflict in Ukraine with the Indian foreign minister. The Russian president said, "We know Prime Minister [Narendra] Modi's position and we have repeatedly spoken about this — the position concerning his attitude to complex processes, including hotspots, to the situation in Ukraine." "I have repeatedly informed him about the situation around this conflict. I know about his desire to do everything to resolve this problem peacefully, but we will now talk more about it. We will provide you with additional information about this situation," Putin added. Also read: Indian Army will wipe out terrorism from Jammu and Kashmir, says Rajnath Singh Earlier in the day, Jaishankar met with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov and held a wide-ranging and useful meeting to discuss the international situation and contemporary issues. In a post on X, Jaishankar said, "Exchanged views on Indo-Pacific, the Ukraine conflict, the Gaza situation, Afghanistan and Central Asia, BRICS, SCO, G20 and the UN." He also said that both of them noted the progress in our economic cooperation, energy trade, connectivity efforts, military-technical cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. He said that India and Russia also signed a Protocol on Consultations for the period 2024-28. Opening remarks at the meeting with FM Sergey Lavrov of Russia. https://t.co/o7vfav0kCd — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) December 27, 2023 × On Tuesday, Jaishankar held a "comprehensive and productive" meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Manturov on the bilateral economic cooperation during which they witnessed the signing of some "very important" agreements related to the construction of the future power-generating units of the Kudankulam nuclear power plant in Tamil Nadu. The ties between India and Russia remained strong notwithstanding Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. India has not yet condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine and it has been maintaining that the crisis must be resolved through diplomacy and dialogue. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin discusses trade, Ukraine war with Jaishankar, invites 'friend' PM Modi to Russia

The Eiffel Tower was shut on Wednesday after the staff managing one of the world's prime tourist attractions went on strike, as per a report by news agency.

Eiffel Tower closed as staff goes on strike over 'unsustainable' management

In what comes as a bizarre yet horrific incident, two teenage boys have been arrested in Florida after their sister was fatally shot during a row over Christmas gifts.

In what comes as a bizarre yet horrific incident, two teenage boys have been arrested in Florida after their sister was fatally shot during a row over Christmas gifts. According to Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, the shooting followed an argument over who was getting more presents. 23-year-old Abrielle Baldwin was shot in the chest by the youngest sibling, Damarcus Coley, 14, while she had her 10-month-old son in a carrier. Damarcus was then shot by the his older sibling, identified as Darcus Coley, 15, who pulled his semi-automatic gun and discharged it. Sheriff Bob Gualtieri said Darcus ran away from the scene, tossing his gun away before being arrested by the police. “They had this family spat about who was getting what and what money was being spent on who and they’re having this big thing going on in the store and they’re all arguing with each other,” said Sheriff Bob Gualtieri. “So you got the 14-year-old who’s mad at the 15-year-old because mom’s not buying equal amounts of gifts.” As the argument escalated, the younger teenager threatened to shoot his brother in the head. However, things took a turn for the worse when they all returned to their grandmother's house in Largo, near Tampa. Watch | Indian student killed in US | America's gun problem becomes a global human issue Charges levelled on the teenage brothers While Abrielle died soon after, Damarcus was taken to hospital where he is believed to be in a stable condition. The authorities have said the teenager will be taken into custody as soon as he is released. The sheriff's office said the younger sibling will be charged with first-degree murder, child abuse, and being delinquent in possession of a firearm. Meanwhile, the older one has been charged with attempted first-degree murder and tampering with physical evidence. Also read | US: Teenage girls stabbed on Christmas at Grand Central by man shouting: ‘Want all white people dead’ Notably, Abrielle suffered internal bleeding due to the gunshot and was unable to breathe. The baby in the carrier, however, was not harmed. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Two teenage brothers arrested after sister shot dead over Christmas presents in Florida

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