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The Albania parliament, amidst protests&nbsp;by loyal MPs has voted to remove legal immunity of former President Sali Berisha, who faces corruption charges. This move, met with&nbsp;jeers and demonstrations, marks a pivotal moment in Albanian politics.

Sali Berisha, a political figure who dominated Albanian politics in the 1990s and served as the conservative prime minister from 2005 to 2013, now confronts potential arrest and a lengthy jail term. Despite vehemently denying all charges, Berisha has labeled the investigation a "purely political" ploy by his rival, current socialist Prime Minister Edi Rama.

As the parliament voted to strip Berisha of immunity by a narrow margin of 75 to 65, his opposition Democratic party MPs protested vehemently, igniting smoke bombs and piling up chairs&nbsp;in the chamber. Berisha, leaving the session surrounded by bodyguards, defiantly declared, "I am stronger than ever."

Also watch |&nbsp;Albania struggles to control forest fire

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/albania-struggles-to-control-forest-fire-642072/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>Protests and security measures</h2>

Outside the parliament, hundreds of Berisha's supporters protested, prompting police to cordon off the area. Riot police, equipped with water cannons stood by to prevent potential violence following the decision.

Berisha and his son-in-law, Jamarber Malltezi, face charges of "passive corruption" stemming from 2008, when Berisha's government introduced a law allowing the privatisation of sports facilities expropriated under communism. The special prosecutor’s office alleges that these legal changes benefited projects in which Berisha and Malltezi had financial stakes, resulting in €5.4m in kickbacks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ireland-women-secure-nations-league-a-berth-after-beating-albania-on-damp-pitch-653990">Also read |&nbsp;Football: Ireland Women secure Nations League A berth after beating Albania on damp pitch</a>

The parliamentary decision came after Berisha refused to cooperate with authorities during the investigation and ignored measures requiring him to report to the police regularly. Albania, often ranked as one of Europe's poorest and most corrupt countries, faced international scrutiny last year when Berisha was banned from entering the US and the UK over alleged involvement in organised crime and corruption.

The United States has accused Berisha of misappropriating public funds and interfering with public processes, asserting that, as prime minister, he used his power for personal gain. Berisha staunchly denies these allegations, setting the stage for a complex legal battle that could have far-reaching consequences for Albanian politics and its international standing.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Albania parliament, amidst protests by loyal MPs has voted to remove legal immunity of former President Sali Berisha, who faces corruption charges. This move, met with jeers and demonstrations, marks a pivotal moment in Albanian politics.

The Albania parliament, amidst protests by loyal MPs has voted to remove legal immunity of former President Sali Berisha, who faces corruption charges. This move, met with jeers and demonstrations, marks a pivotal moment in Albanian politics. Sali Berisha, a political figure who dominated Albanian politics in the 1990s and served as the conservative prime minister from 2005 to 2013, now confronts potential arrest and a lengthy jail term. Despite vehemently denying all charges, Berisha has labeled the investigation a "purely political" ploy by his rival, current socialist Prime Minister Edi Rama. As the parliament voted to strip Berisha of immunity by a narrow margin of 75 to 65, his opposition Democratic party MPs protested vehemently, igniting smoke bombs and piling up chairs in the chamber. Berisha, leaving the session surrounded by bodyguards, defiantly declared, "I am stronger than ever." Also watch | Albania struggles to control forest fire Protests and security measures Outside the parliament, hundreds of Berisha's supporters protested, prompting police to cordon off the area. Riot police, equipped with water cannons stood by to prevent potential violence following the decision. Berisha and his son-in-law, Jamarber Malltezi, face charges of "passive corruption" stemming from 2008, when Berisha's government introduced a law allowing the privatisation of sports facilities expropriated under communism. The special prosecutor’s office alleges that these legal changes benefited projects in which Berisha and Malltezi had financial stakes, resulting in €5.4m in kickbacks. Also read | Football: Ireland Women secure Nations League A berth after beating Albania on damp pitch The parliamentary decision came after Berisha refused to cooperate with authorities during the investigation and ignored measures requiring him to report to the police regularly. Albania, often ranked as one of Europe's poorest and most corrupt countries, faced international scrutiny last year when Berisha was banned from entering the US and the UK over alleged involvement in organised crime and corruption. The United States has accused Berisha of misappropriating public funds and interfering with public processes, asserting that, as prime minister, he used his power for personal gain. Berisha staunchly denies these allegations, setting the stage for a complex legal battle that could have far-reaching consequences for Albanian politics and its international standing. (With inputs from agencies)

Smoke bombs thrown in Albanian parliament after former president Sali Berisha stripped of immunity

AI has the potential to replace a quarter of all labor duties in the United States and Europe while also creating new jobs and increasing productivity. Furthermore, it has the potential to boost the overall annual value of products and services produced globally by 7%.

Artificial Intelligence: Job killer or job creator? | 82% professionals fear job loss due to AI

Continuing with more news from India New Delhi has said that it has received consular access to Nikhil Gupta at least on three separate occasions. The man is currently launched in a prison in the Czech Republic and has been charged by the American authorities for being involved in a failed assassination attempt against the Khalistani terrorist Pannun on American soil.

India received consular access to Nikhil Gupta on three occasions

An invitation has been extended to French President Emmanuel Macron to serve as the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations in 2024. This marks the sixth instance of a French leader being invited to the momentous event at Kartavya Path on January 26, commemorating the day in 1950 when the Constitution of India came into effect, signifying the nation's transition to a republic. India's gesture reflects the strengthened closeness and trust that has developed between the two countries over time.

France's Emmanuel Macron invited to be chief guest at India Republic Day 2024

From answering phone calls to doorbells there are plenty of things that Gen Z would rather avoid going out to dinner can be added to that list. A study has now found that Gen Z suffers anxiety while dining out at restaurants.

Decoding Menu Anxiety: Study reveals Gen Z does not like dining out

China's economic struggles post-pandemic are causing a global stir, as it faces a unique challenge of intensified deflation risks. Lockdowns and supply chain disruptions during heightened global demand led to excess supply when China reopened in 2023, pushing domestic and export prices into deflation. the impact? Plunging export prices, affecting major trading partners and potentially reshaping the world's economic dynamics.

Excess global supply pushes China into deflation

On October 7, the Israel-Hamas war started, writing another bloodied chapter in the century-old conflict between Israel and Palestine.&nbsp;

Hundreds of Hamas militants entered the border from Gaza, killing around 1,100 people, mostly civilians. They took back about 250 people as hostages with them.&nbsp;

The attack was the worst in Israel's history. The Hamas militant reportedly raped women, killed babies, showing a horrible side of the war.&nbsp;

The brutality shown by Hamas was condemned globally, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that he's "deeply shocked"&nbsp;

Taking to&nbsp;X, formerly Twitter, Modi said "our (India's) thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour".&nbsp;

Also&nbsp;read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/2023-the-year-when-india-brighten-up-dark-side-of-the-moon-with-chandrayaan-3-672620">2023: The year when India lit up dark side of the Moon with Chandrayaan-3</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Netanyahu's pledge&nbsp;</h2>

After the Hamas attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged to "destroy" Hamas. Calling it retaliatory action, he launched a relentless campaign of air strikes in Gaza followed by a ground offensive that reduced the territory's north to rubble.&nbsp;

The world saw some hope seven weeks into the war, when the two sides agreed to a week-long truce during which Hamas released 105 hostages, mostly women and children, and Israel freed 240 Palestinian prisoners.&nbsp;

Israel then resumed its offensive, shifting its focus to southern Gaza, including areas previously declared "safe zones" as it said that it feared Hamas could regroup.&nbsp;

<h2>History of Israel&nbsp;</h2>

David Ben-Gurion, the head of the Jewish Agency, proclaimed the establishment of the State of Israel on May 14, 1948, which was recognised by then-US President Harry S Truman on the same day. The United Nations on November 29, 1947, voted to partition British Mandatory Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states, but the move was rejected by the Arab states. Their conflict led to a war with Israel after its creation.&nbsp;

During the eight-month-long war, Israel expanded its territory allotted to it by the UN as more than 760,000 Palestinians fled. Jordan occupied the West Bank including east Jerusalem, while Egypt took the coastal Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

The nation was formally created in 1948, but its history can be traced back to early Iron Age I, or maybe before that.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-china-secretly-working-towards-next-nuclear-test-satellite-images-hint-at-development-672633">Is China secretly working towards next nuclear test? Satellite images hint at development</a>&nbsp;

<h2>What's the future?&nbsp;</h2>

An end to the ongoing war seems to be a distant dream, and it looks like&nbsp;it will keep West Asia on its edge for a longer period than expected.&nbsp;

A total of 129 hostages from the October 7 attacks remain in Gaza, according to Israeli authorities. Around 20 are believed to be dead.&nbsp;

Israel would want a safe return of all the hostages in order to discuss the resolution.&nbsp;

<h2>The war in numbers...so far&nbsp;</h2>

Hamas health authorities claimed on Friday (Dec 22) that a total of 20,057 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza because of Israeli airstrikes and more than 50,000 Palestinians have been injured. A total of 301 Palestinians were killed in the West Bank, Hamas said.&nbsp;

Latest data showed that around 250,000 Israelis have been displaced from the Gaza and Lebanon borders and more than 1.9 million Palestinians were displaced in Gaza, out of a population of 2.3 million.&nbsp;

(With inputs from&nbsp;agencies)&nbsp;

On October 7, the Israel-Hamas war started, writing another bloodied chapter in the century-old conflict between Israel and Palestine. Hundreds of Hamas militants entered the border from Gaza, killing around 1,100 people, mostly civilians.

On October 7, the Israel-Hamas war started, writing another bloodied chapter in the century-old conflict between Israel and Palestine. Hundreds of Hamas militants entered the border from Gaza, killing around 1,100 people, mostly civilians. They took back about 250 people as hostages with them. The attack was the worst in Israel's history. The Hamas militant reportedly raped women, killed babies, showing a horrible side of the war. The brutality shown by Hamas was condemned globally, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that he's "deeply shocked" Taking to X, formerly Twitter, Modi said "our (India's) thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour". Also read: 2023: The year when India lit up dark side of the Moon with Chandrayaan-3 Netanyahu's pledge After the Hamas attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged to "destroy" Hamas. Calling it retaliatory action, he launched a relentless campaign of air strikes in Gaza followed by a ground offensive that reduced the territory's north to rubble. The world saw some hope seven weeks into the war, when the two sides agreed to a week-long truce during which Hamas released 105 hostages, mostly women and children, and Israel freed 240 Palestinian prisoners. Israel then resumed its offensive, shifting its focus to southern Gaza, including areas previously declared "safe zones" as it said that it feared Hamas could regroup. History of Israel David Ben-Gurion, the head of the Jewish Agency, proclaimed the establishment of the State of Israel on May 14, 1948, which was recognised by then-US President Harry S Truman on the same day. The United Nations on November 29, 1947, voted to partition British Mandatory Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states, but the move was rejected by the Arab states. Their conflict led to a war with Israel after its creation. During the eight-month-long war, Israel expanded its territory allotted to it by the UN as more than 760,000 Palestinians fled. Jordan occupied the West Bank including east Jerusalem, while Egypt took the coastal Gaza Strip. The nation was formally created in 1948, but its history can be traced back to early Iron Age I, or maybe before that. Also read: Is China secretly working towards next nuclear test? Satellite images hint at development What's the future? An end to the ongoing war seems to be a distant dream, and it looks like it will keep West Asia on its edge for a longer period than expected. A total of 129 hostages from the October 7 attacks remain in Gaza, according to Israeli authorities. Around 20 are believed to be dead. Israel would want a safe return of all the hostages in order to discuss the resolution. The war in numbers...so far Hamas health authorities claimed on Friday (Dec 22) that a total of 20,057 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza because of Israeli airstrikes and more than 50,000 Palestinians have been injured. A total of 301 Palestinians were killed in the West Bank, Hamas said. Latest data showed that around 250,000 Israelis have been displaced from the Gaza and Lebanon borders and more than 1.9 million Palestinians were displaced in Gaza, out of a population of 2.3 million. (With inputs from agencies)

2023: The year wrote another bloodied chapter in Israel-Palestine conflict's history

Rudy Giuliani, a longtime associate of former President Donald Trump, has filed for bankruptcy just days after he was ordered to pay $148m (£116m) in a defamation case.

Explained: Former NYC Mayor Rudy Giuliani's money troubles

Three police officers accused of killing Manuel 'Manny' Ellis, an unarmed Black man, were acquitted on Thursday (December 21) in Washington. Disappointed by the jury's decision, chanting "No justice, no peace," on Thursday evening, a crowd of around 100 people, including the victim's family, blocked an intersection near a mural of Manny Ellis in Tacoma.

The killing, which happened back in 2020, bears parallels to the murder of George Floyd the same year;&nbsp;the dying pleas for air by both men sparked widespread protests.

<h2>The 'not-guilty'&nbsp;judgement</h2>

Three Tacoma, Washington, police officers Christopher Burbank, Matthew Collins, and Timothy Rankine were accused of killing Ellis.&nbsp;

However, a jury found Officers Christopher Burbank and Matthew Collins not guilty of murder and manslaughter charges. Officer Timothy Rankine was found not guilty of manslaughter.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jeffrey-epstein-victim-doe-107-urges-court-not-to-release-her-name-in-soon-to-be-unsealed-documents-672290">Jeffrey Epstein victim 'Doe 107' urges court not to release her name in soon-to-be unsealed documents</a>

The judgement comes after a trial that lasted more than two months.

<h2>What happened back in 2020?</h2>

As per video footage of the incident — including bystander video — on March 3, 2020, the officers punched 33-year-old Manuel Ellis and put him in a chokehold from behind. They also shot him with a stun gun and knelt on his back, which cut off Ellis' air supply.

Witness testimonies and the videos showed that Ellis was walking home after getting doughnuts from a 7-Eleven when he passed a police patrol car at a red light. Inside the car were Collins and Burbank.

The two officers claim they saw Ellis try to force open the door of a passing car, and that he became aggressive upon questioning. Collins, as per AP, also testified that Manuel Ellis demonstrated "superhuman strength" and&nbsp;lifted him off the ground and threw him through the air.&nbsp;

However, three witnesses testified that they saw no such thing and that Ellis didn't do anything to provoke the officers.&nbsp;

They said that after a brief conversation, the two white officers knocked down Ellis, even as he&nbsp;held up his hand in surrender. However, Burbank still shot him in the chest with a taser. A doorbell surveillance camera corroborated this.&nbsp;

Soon, many officers appeared for backup. Among them was Rankine, who arrived after Ellis was already handcuffed face-down. The officer knelt on Ellis' upper back.

Video evidence showed the victim addressing the officers as 'sir' and telling them he can't breathe. During his testimony, Rankine called the death a tragedy, but said: "The only response at that point that I could think of is, 'If you can talk to me, you can still breathe'".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ai-death-calculator-boasts-accuracy-in-predicting-when-youll-die-do-you-want-to-try-it-672232">AI death calculator boasts 'accuracy' in predicting when you'll die. Do you want to try it?</a>

The Pierce County medical examiner ruled Manny Ellis' death a homicide caused by oxygen deprivation. However, lawyers for the officers argued that Ellis, who had methamphetamine in his system, died due to drug use and a heart condition.

<h2>Distressing witness testimony</h2>

One witness, Sara McDowell, 26 told the court: "When I saw Manuel not doing anything, and him get attacked like that, it wasn't right."

"I'd never seen police do anything like that. It was the worst thing I've ever seen. It was scary. It wasn't OK," she added.

However, despite the evidence, the jury gave the not-guilty verdict. AP reported&nbsp;that as the first not-guilty verdict was read, there was a gasp from the gallery.

In a statement, the City of Tacoma said that the verdict would not affect an internal police department investigation. It said that once the investigation findings are approved by Chief Avery Moore, decisions about any possible discipline, "up to and including termination," will be made. This is expected to happen within the next two weeks.

(With inputs from agencies)

Three police officers accused of killing Manuel 'Manny' Ellis, an unarmed Black man, were acquitted on Thursday (December 21) in Washington. Disappointed by the jury's decision, chanting "No justice, no peace," on Thursday evening, a crowd of around 100 people, including the victim's family, blocked an intersection near a mural of Manny Ellis in Tacoma.

Three police officers accused of killing Manuel 'Manny' Ellis, an unarmed Black man, were acquitted on Thursday (December 21) in Washington. Disappointed by the jury's decision, chanting "No justice, no peace," on Thursday evening, a crowd of around 100 people, including the victim's family, blocked an intersection near a mural of Manny Ellis in Tacoma. The killing, which happened back in 2020, bears parallels to the murder of George Floyd the same year; the dying pleas for air by both men sparked widespread protests. The 'not-guilty' judgement Three Tacoma, Washington, police officers Christopher Burbank, Matthew Collins, and Timothy Rankine were accused of killing Ellis. However, a jury found Officers Christopher Burbank and Matthew Collins not guilty of murder and manslaughter charges. Officer Timothy Rankine was found not guilty of manslaughter. Also read | Jeffrey Epstein victim 'Doe 107' urges court not to release her name in soon-to-be unsealed documents The judgement comes after a trial that lasted more than two months. What happened back in 2020? As per video footage of the incident — including bystander video — on March 3, 2020, the officers punched 33-year-old Manuel Ellis and put him in a chokehold from behind. They also shot him with a stun gun and knelt on his back, which cut off Ellis' air supply. Witness testimonies and the videos showed that Ellis was walking home after getting doughnuts from a 7-Eleven when he passed a police patrol car at a red light. Inside the car were Collins and Burbank. The two officers claim they saw Ellis try to force open the door of a passing car, and that he became aggressive upon questioning. Collins, as per AP, also testified that Manuel Ellis demonstrated "superhuman strength" and lifted him off the ground and threw him through the air. However, three witnesses testified that they saw no such thing and that Ellis didn't do anything to provoke the officers. They said that after a brief conversation, the two white officers knocked down Ellis, even as he held up his hand in surrender. However, Burbank still shot him in the chest with a taser. A doorbell surveillance camera corroborated this. Soon, many officers appeared for backup. Among them was Rankine, who arrived after Ellis was already handcuffed face-down. The officer knelt on Ellis' upper back. Video evidence showed the victim addressing the officers as 'sir' and telling them he can't breathe. During his testimony, Rankine called the death a tragedy, but said: "The only response at that point that I could think of is, 'If you can talk to me, you can still breathe'". Also read | AI death calculator boasts 'accuracy' in predicting when you'll die. Do you want to try it? The Pierce County medical examiner ruled Manny Ellis' death a homicide caused by oxygen deprivation. However, lawyers for the officers argued that Ellis, who had methamphetamine in his system, died due to drug use and a heart condition. Distressing witness testimony One witness, Sara McDowell, 26 told the court: "When I saw Manuel not doing anything, and him get attacked like that, it wasn't right." "I'd never seen police do anything like that. It was the worst thing I've ever seen. It was scary. It wasn't OK," she added. However, despite the evidence, the jury gave the not-guilty verdict. AP reported that as the first not-guilty verdict was read, there was a gasp from the gallery. In a statement, the City of Tacoma said that the verdict would not affect an internal police department investigation. It said that once the investigation findings are approved by Chief Avery Moore, decisions about any possible discipline, "up to and including termination," will be made. This is expected to happen within the next two weeks. (With inputs from agencies)

White officers, accused of killing unarmed black man Manny Ellis, acquitted despite mounting evidence

Russian Security Council secretary and President Vladimir Putin's right hand Nikolai Patrushev had given orders for Wagner mercenary group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's assassination, reported the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) while citing Western intelligence as well as former Russian intelligence officer. 
 
The Wagner Group was the Russian army's crucial wing in the Ukraine war before the escalating rhetoric between the country's defence minister and Yevgeny Prigozhin resulted in the former leading a brief mutiny against the government of Russia in June 2023 which shook the foundation of the Kremlin.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-says-russia-upgrading-nuclear-arsenal-amid-hybrid-war-with-west-671399">Vladimir Putin says Russia upgrading nuclear arsenal amid ‘hybrid war’ with West</a>

The so-called “march of justice” was abruptly ended by Yevgeny Prigozhin as he reached close to Moscow after a deal between him and Putin was brokered by Belarus's Alexander Lukashenko which permitted him and his Wagner forces to seek shelter in his country.

<h2>Nikolai Patrushev saw Prigozhin as a 'threat'</h2>

In August, Yevgeny Prigozhin, along with other top Wagner commanders, was killed after his plane exploded. For a long time, Yevgeny Prigozhin was seen as a threat by Nikolai Patrushev, even before the mutiny took place. 
 
Patrushev did approve the top Russian military brass' open criticism by Wagner's boss and was concerned that probably he gained a lot of power, as per the report. 
 
Nikolai Patrushev - who has worked with Vladimir Putin since he became the president and is Russia's second-most powerful man – had taken the decision to punish Prigozhin after the mutiny, claimed the report. The report added that Putin "did not object" to it. 
 
After Prigozhin's death in the plane explosion, Putin in his statement had said that "he made mistakes." The president also speculated that the explosion was caused by the grenades' poor handling by those present onboard.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Did Putin order the killing of Wagner Chief?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-did-putin-order-the-killing-of-wagner-chief-672655/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This claim was denied in a WSJ report which stated that a small bomb was attached under the wing of the plane in which Yevgeny Prigozhin boarded. The bomb was attached when the plane was waiting on the tarmac at a Moscow airport which caused the explosion. 
 
Meanwhile, reacting to the report, the Kremlin accused the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) of publishing "pulp fiction". 
 
“We have seen this material, but we would not like to comment on it. It is unlikely that such materials can be commented on,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Russian Security Council secretary and President Vladimir Putin's right hand Nikolai Patrushev had given orders for Wagner mercenary group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's assassination, reported the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) while citing Western intelligence as well as former Russian intelligence officer.

Russian Security Council secretary and President Vladimir Putin's right hand Nikolai Patrushev had given orders for Wagner mercenary group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's assassination, reported the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) while citing Western intelligence as well as former Russian intelligence officer. The Wagner Group was the Russian army's crucial wing in the Ukraine war before the escalating rhetoric between the country's defence minister and Yevgeny Prigozhin resulted in the former leading a brief mutiny against the government of Russia in June 2023 which shook the foundation of the Kremlin. Also read: Vladimir Putin says Russia upgrading nuclear arsenal amid ‘hybrid war’ with West The so-called “march of justice” was abruptly ended by Yevgeny Prigozhin as he reached close to Moscow after a deal between him and Putin was brokered by Belarus's Alexander Lukashenko which permitted him and his Wagner forces to seek shelter in his country. Nikolai Patrushev saw Prigozhin as a 'threat' In August, Yevgeny Prigozhin, along with other top Wagner commanders, was killed after his plane exploded. For a long time, Yevgeny Prigozhin was seen as a threat by Nikolai Patrushev, even before the mutiny took place. Patrushev did approve the top Russian military brass' open criticism by Wagner's boss and was concerned that probably he gained a lot of power, as per the report. Nikolai Patrushev - who has worked with Vladimir Putin since he became the president and is Russia's second-most powerful man – had taken the decision to punish Prigozhin after the mutiny, claimed the report. The report added that Putin "did not object" to it. After Prigozhin's death in the plane explosion, Putin in his statement had said that "he made mistakes." The president also speculated that the explosion was caused by the grenades' poor handling by those present onboard. Watch: Gravitas: Did Putin order the killing of Wagner Chief? This claim was denied in a WSJ report which stated that a small bomb was attached under the wing of the plane in which Yevgeny Prigozhin boarded. The bomb was attached when the plane was waiting on the tarmac at a Moscow airport which caused the explosion. Meanwhile, reacting to the report, the Kremlin accused the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) of publishing "pulp fiction". “We have seen this material, but we would not like to comment on it. It is unlikely that such materials can be commented on,” he added. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russia's Putin gave orders to kill Wagner Chief Prigozhin, claims report

With support dwindling from the Western allies, Ukraine is facing an ammunition and funding crunch. But now a silver lining could be seen emerging as Japan is now sending patriot air defence missiles to the United States. This could free the US to send weapons from its own stockpiles to Kyiv.

Japan to send patriot missiles to the United States

The Army claimed four soldiers were killed and three were injured during a battle with militants in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district on Thursday. At 3:45 PM on Thursday, terrorists ambushed two army trucks heading through Dera Ki Gali in Rajouri's Poonch area.

J&K: Army vehicle ambushed in Poonch area

French authorities have revealed that they grounded a flight bound for Nicaragua over suspected charges of human trafficking on Thursday. The flight was carrying over 300 Indian passengers who are believed to be victims of human trafficking.

France grounds plane with 303 Indians for 'trafficking'

After nearly detonating its first atom bomb 60 years ago, China is now said to be rapidly expanding the lethality of its missile force by making efforts to reactivate its Lop Nur nuclear test facility which is located in the remote Xinjiang Autonomous Region, in the country's northwest, as per a report&nbsp;published by the New York Times. 
 
According to the purported&nbsp;satellite images&nbsp;which were first published in the New York Times, China is likely to soon conduct full-fledged nuclear tests or maybe subcritical nuclear explosions. In the subcritical experiments, nuclear explosions are stimulated with the use of chemical explosives. 
 
The reports by the US government and independent experts have for years expressed concerns regarding China's old base Lop Nur. The reports have always emphasised China making preparations for year-round operations and having a “lack of transparency”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mainland-china-resumes-fish-imports-from-taiwan-weeks-before-polls-672582">Mainland China resumes fish imports from Taiwan weeks before polls</a>

However, now multiple satellite images have revealed that new boreholes have been drilled by the Chinese military – which is good for storing firestorms of deadly radiation that gets released from large nuclear blasts. The military has also made hundreds of expansions and upgrades.&nbsp;

<h2>New roads, recent excavation and construction seen in images</h2>

The Lop Nur nuclear test area's main support base, which is sometimes called Malan, is a large complex of buildings and technical sites that’s more than two square miles. More than 30 buildings have been added or renovated here since 2017. 
 
A road runs southwest for about 75 miles to an old testing area. Satellite images have revealed dozens of miles of freshly graded new dirt roads in the eastern area of Lop Nur. 
 
Horizontal tunnels bored into the side of the mountains were used for past nuclear weapons testing. Satellite images suggest recent excavation and construction in at least one of the tunnels. 
 
In the satellite images, several new roads were seen recently added to the existing road network of the base, which extended nearly 30 miles to a new area located in the eastern hills.

Watch:&nbsp;Deflation in China impacting global disinflation efforts

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In other images, drill rigs were revealed hidden in these hills, which carried the possibility of turning into an underground test area in future. In the newly developed area, deep vertical shafts will support larger atomic tests than the old network of shallow horizontal tunnels had. 
 
“All the evidence points to China making preparations that would let it resume nuclear tests,” said Tong Zhao,&nbsp;a nuclear expert at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, while speaking to the New York Times. 
 
Former director of the Los Alamos weapons laboratory in New Mexico Siegfried S&nbsp;Hecker said that rebuilding Lop Nur is unusual. “The Russians and Americans have continued activity at their test sites, but nothing like this,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

After nearly detonating its first atom bomb 60 years ago, China is now said to be rapidly expanding the lethality of its missile force by making efforts to reactivate its Lop Nur nuclear test facility which is located in the remote Xinjiang Autonomous Region, in the country's northwest, as per a report published by the New York Times.

After nearly detonating its first atom bomb 60 years ago, China is now said to be rapidly expanding the lethality of its missile force by making efforts to reactivate its Lop Nur nuclear test facility which is located in the remote Xinjiang Autonomous Region, in the country's northwest, as per a report published by the New York Times. According to the purported satellite images which were first published in the New York Times, China is likely to soon conduct full-fledged nuclear tests or maybe subcritical nuclear explosions. In the subcritical experiments, nuclear explosions are stimulated with the use of chemical explosives. The reports by the US government and independent experts have for years expressed concerns regarding China's old base Lop Nur. The reports have always emphasised China making preparations for year-round operations and having a “lack of transparency”. Also read: Mainland China resumes fish imports from Taiwan weeks before polls However, now multiple satellite images have revealed that new boreholes have been drilled by the Chinese military – which is good for storing firestorms of deadly radiation that gets released from large nuclear blasts. The military has also made hundreds of expansions and upgrades. New roads, recent excavation and construction seen in images The Lop Nur nuclear test area's main support base, which is sometimes called Malan, is a large complex of buildings and technical sites that’s more than two square miles. More than 30 buildings have been added or renovated here since 2017. A road runs southwest for about 75 miles to an old testing area. Satellite images have revealed dozens of miles of freshly graded new dirt roads in the eastern area of Lop Nur. Horizontal tunnels bored into the side of the mountains were used for past nuclear weapons testing. Satellite images suggest recent excavation and construction in at least one of the tunnels. In the satellite images, several new roads were seen recently added to the existing road network of the base, which extended nearly 30 miles to a new area located in the eastern hills. Watch: Deflation in China impacting global disinflation efforts In other images, drill rigs were revealed hidden in these hills, which carried the possibility of turning into an underground test area in future. In the newly developed area, deep vertical shafts will support larger atomic tests than the old network of shallow horizontal tunnels had. “All the evidence points to China making preparations that would let it resume nuclear tests,” said Tong Zhao, a nuclear expert at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, while speaking to the New York Times. Former director of the Los Alamos weapons laboratory in New Mexico Siegfried S Hecker said that rebuilding Lop Nur is unusual. “The Russians and Americans have continued activity at their test sites, but nothing like this,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Is China secretly working towards next nuclear test? Satellite images hint at development

Israel intensifies Gaza strikes, Hamas fires rockets amid truce talks. Hamas, the group which controls the Gaza Strip, has ruled out any more hostage releases until Israel agrees to a "full cessation of aggression". Watch the video to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas rules out any more hostage releases until Israel agrees to end war

Japan on Friday (Dec 22) agreed to sell its domestically produced Patriot missiles to the United States as the latter attempts fresh stock up after sending the weapons system to Ukraine.

Japan on Friday (Dec 22) agreed to sell its domestically produced Patriot missiles to the United States as the latter attempts fresh stock up after sending the weapons system to Ukraine. Washington had been looking to source the missiles as it had nearly run out of ammunition but Japan's strict export policy meant it had to wait some time. After the announcement, the White House released a statement saying it welcomed the decision taken by the Japanese government. "We welcome the Government of Japan’s announcement today that it will transfer Patriot interceptor missiles to the United States to replenish US inventories," the White House said. The Patriot missiles, especially the PAC3 surface-to-air missile defence system, manufactured by Japan is capable of directly targeting individuals and destroying objects. It is the first time that Japan will be exporting a finished lethal weapon system. "The appropriate transfer of defence equipment overseas will contribute to...international peace and security, and will also strengthen cooperation with allies and the US," a Tokyo government official was quoted as saying news agency AFP. Watch | Japan bans export of chemical weapon goods to Russia, expresses concern over nuclear threats × Japan's strict weapons export policy Under Japan's "Three Principles on Transfer of Defence Equipment and Technology" adopted on exports of weapons in 1967, the sales of weapons to communist nations, those under United Nations embargo and countries currently or about to be engaged in an armed conflict is banned. With the Patriot missiles set to arrive on the Ukrainian shores sooner than later, experts had raised suspicion over Japan giving the nod to the export of the weapons system. Several countries have militarily aided Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian offensive on February 24 last year. Japan also offered help to Ukraine. But Tokyo has only sent bulletproof vests, helmets, and medical kits due to Tokyo's pacifist laws forbidding sending weapons to the war-torn country. Also read | Japan considering exporting weapons to countries under invasion: Report Seeing the allies and their military industries making huge profits, Tokyo may have been charmed into loosening its position. Lifting the ban could suddenly make the Japanese defence sector lucrative once again, bring in a tax windfall and create more jobs while reducing reliance on expensive defence imports. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan agrees to export Patriot missiles to US facing arsenal depletion

According to the Pentagon, the senior U.S. military officer and his Chinese counterpart had their first virtual meeting in over a year.

US and China military leaders speak for the first time in over a year

China has decided to stop exporting a variety of rare-earth technology. The world's top supplier of minerals is acting in response to Beijing's geopolitical adversaries' call for a reduction in China's reliance on imported commodities.

China bans exports of some rare-earth processing tech

A Nicaragua-bound plane, carrying over 303 Indian passengers, has been grounded by France over suspected 'human trafficking', said the authorities on Friday (Dec 22). 
 
As per the Paris prosecutors, on Thursday (Dec 21) the aircraft was detained after an anonymous tipoff. The local officials, in the eastern Marne region on Friday, said that a judicial investigation has been launched into the trip's conditions and purposes. 
 
French media, which includes BFM TV and France 3, said that authorities were carrying out an investigation over the suspicion of human trafficking.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/macron-thanks-dear-friend-modi-for-republic-day-invite-says-will-celebrate-with-you-672583">Macron thanks 'dear friend' Modi for Republic Day invite, says will 'celebrate with you'</a>

Speaking to AFP, Paris public prosecutor's office said, the aircraft carrying passengers "likely to be victims of human trafficking" was detained after they received a tip-off.

<h2>Plane detained at technical stopover</h2>

The flight, which belonged to a Romanian charter company, had taken off from Dubai, United Arab Emirates and landed at a small Vatry airport, which was a technical stopover when they were intervened by the police, said the Marne prefect's office, in an e-mailed statement. 
 
"The reception hall at Vatry airport was transformed into a waiting area with individual beds to provide passengers with the best possible reception conditions", it added, stating that a judicial investigation has been started into the incident.

Watch: France's Macron will be India's Chief Guest on Republic Day; Rafale Jets to fly at RD parade&nbsp;

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The prosecutors said that the investigation has been taken over by the national anti-organised crime unit JUNALCO. The prefecture in the northeastern department of Marne stated that A340, which was being operated by Romanian company Legend Airlines, "remained grounded on the tarmac at Vatry airport following its landing". 
 
It added that the plane's refuelling was due and there were 303 Indian nationals inside it. 
 
As per the reports, the travel may have been planned by the Indian passengers to reach Central America from where they can attempt to enter the United States or Canada illegally.

Reacting to the incident, Indian Embassy in France said, "French authorities informed us of a plane w/ 303 people, mostly Indian origin, from Dubai to Nicaragua detained on a technical halt at a French airport. Embassy team has reached &amp; obtained consular access. We are investigating the situation, also ensuring wellbeing of passengers."

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French authorities informed us of a plane w/ 303 people, mostly Indian origin, from Dubai to Nicaragua detained on a technical halt at a French airport. Embassy team has reached &amp; obtained consular access. We are investigating the situation, also ensuring wellbeing of passengers.
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The plane was detained soon after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi invited French President Emanuel Macron as a guest on India's Republic Day.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A Nicaragua-bound plane, carrying over 303 Indian passengers, has been grounded by France over suspected 'human trafficking', said the authorities on Friday (Dec 22).

A Nicaragua-bound plane, carrying over 303 Indian passengers, has been grounded by France over suspected 'human trafficking', said the authorities on Friday (Dec 22). As per the Paris prosecutors, on Thursday (Dec 21) the aircraft was detained after an anonymous tipoff. The local officials, in the eastern Marne region on Friday, said that a judicial investigation has been launched into the trip's conditions and purposes. French media, which includes BFM TV and France 3, said that authorities were carrying out an investigation over the suspicion of human trafficking. Also read: Macron thanks 'dear friend' Modi for Republic Day invite, says will 'celebrate with you' Speaking to AFP, Paris public prosecutor's office said, the aircraft carrying passengers "likely to be victims of human trafficking" was detained after they received a tip-off. Plane detained at technical stopover The flight, which belonged to a Romanian charter company, had taken off from Dubai, United Arab Emirates and landed at a small Vatry airport, which was a technical stopover when they were intervened by the police, said the Marne prefect's office, in an e-mailed statement. "The reception hall at Vatry airport was transformed into a waiting area with individual beds to provide passengers with the best possible reception conditions", it added, stating that a judicial investigation has been started into the incident. Watch: France's Macron will be India's Chief Guest on Republic Day; Rafale Jets to fly at RD parade The prosecutors said that the investigation has been taken over by the national anti-organised crime unit JUNALCO. The prefecture in the northeastern department of Marne stated that A340, which was being operated by Romanian company Legend Airlines, "remained grounded on the tarmac at Vatry airport following its landing". It added that the plane's refuelling was due and there were 303 Indian nationals inside it. As per the reports, the travel may have been planned by the Indian passengers to reach Central America from where they can attempt to enter the United States or Canada illegally. Reacting to the incident, Indian Embassy in France said, "French authorities informed us of a plane w/ 303 people, mostly Indian origin, from Dubai to Nicaragua detained on a technical halt at a French airport. Embassy team has reached & obtained consular access. We are investigating the situation, also ensuring wellbeing of passengers." French authorities informed us of a plane w/ 303 people, mostly Indian origin, from Dubai to Nicaragua detained on a technical halt at a French airport. Embassy team has reached & obtained consular access. We are investigating the situation, also ensuring wellbeing of passengers. — India in France (@IndiaembFrance) December 22, 2023 × The plane was detained soon after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi invited French President Emanuel Macron as a guest on India's Republic Day. (With inputs from agencies)

France grounds plane, filled with 303 Indians, over suspected 'human trafficking'

The US Inflation outlook seemed to improve, but during the recent Federal Reserve meeting, it was revealed that inflation had already hit the central bank's 2% target. This unexpected news led some fed officials to revise their estimates, and now there's a growing consensus that the next six months may not be as inflation-free as initially thought. In simple terms, the US is facing an inflation surprise, and economic forecasts are adjusting accordingly.

US inflation to show FED's battle is now all but complete

Japan is set to unveil an annual budget that maintains spending at historically high levels. The world's most indebted developed nation is expected to present a budget pegged at 112 trillion yen or $784 billion. The high spending plan will exert further fiscal stress on Japan.

Japan's budget to show spending at historical highs

This year, Apple's market value rose by around $1 trillion. But in 2024, such gains for the world's most valuable firm will be more elusive. As Apple attempts to halt four quarters of decreasing revenue, the firm faces uncertainty in China.

Apple's 2023 rally tough to live up to in 2024

Just weeks before the Taiwanese elections, Beijing announced that it will permit imports of high-value fish from the island, a problem which was raised specifically by the main opposition party Kuomintang on his visit to mainland China earlier this year. 
 
Now once again, the General Administration of Customs will allow imports of grouper fish – which is a high-value aquaculture item found in Taiwan – from registered farms on the island from Friday, according to a notice on the customs website. 
 
The imports were suspended by Beijing in June last year as it said that excessive levels of oxytetracycline and banned chemicals were found in the fish. Oxytetracycline is a type of antibiotic.

<h2>Taiwan rejects China's accusations</h2>

The accusation was rejected by the Taiwanese authorities. The mainland’s Taiwan Affairs Office spokeswoman Zhu Fenglian said that the decision was based on “a comprehensive assessment of relevant corrective measures” after information regarding measures taken for addressing the problem was provided by Taiwanese industry representatives to the mainland.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-reports-more-suspected-chinese-weather-balloons-crossing-taiwan-strait-671052">Taiwan reports more suspected Chinese weather balloons crossing Taiwan Strait</a>

The representatives expressed&nbsp;“strong hope” that imports can resume, as per the state news agency Xinhua. As per the report, a few Taiwanese grouper farming enterprises have gone ahead and registered with mainland customs authorities and will begin exporting immediately. 
 
The announcement has been made by Beijing just weeks before the presidential election in Taiwan on January 13. The election&nbsp;is set to shape future cross-strait relations after years of tension during the 
presidency of Tsai Ing-wen, who belongs to the independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party and came to power in 2016. 
 
China considers self-ruled Taiwan as its breakaway territory which should be united with the mainland and has never stopped using force to do so.

Watch:&nbsp;Taiwan on high alert for Chinese activities, reports suspected Chinese balloons crossing Taiwan

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Meanwhile, Taiwan is not recognised as an independent country by many countries, however, countries like the United States oppose a forcible change in the status quo. 
 
KMT’s vice-chairman Andrew Hsia Li-yan had raised the issues being faced by Taiwanese food importers, which included the grouper ban, in a visit to the mainland in February. 
 
On his 10-day trip, Hsia held meetings with top Taiwan affairs officials, which included Wang Huning, head of the top political advisory body of China and head of the State Council’s Taiwan Affairs Office Song Tao.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Just weeks before the Taiwanese elections, Beijing announced that it will permit imports of high-value fish from the island, a problem which was raised specifically by the main opposition party Kuomintang on his visit to mainland China earlier this year.

Just weeks before the Taiwanese elections, Beijing announced that it will permit imports of high-value fish from the island, a problem which was raised specifically by the main opposition party Kuomintang on his visit to mainland China earlier this year. Now once again, the General Administration of Customs will allow imports of grouper fish – which is a high-value aquaculture item found in Taiwan – from registered farms on the island from Friday, according to a notice on the customs website. The imports were suspended by Beijing in June last year as it said that excessive levels of oxytetracycline and banned chemicals were found in the fish. Oxytetracycline is a type of antibiotic. Taiwan rejects China's accusations The accusation was rejected by the Taiwanese authorities. The mainland’s Taiwan Affairs Office spokeswoman Zhu Fenglian said that the decision was based on “a comprehensive assessment of relevant corrective measures” after information regarding measures taken for addressing the problem was provided by Taiwanese industry representatives to the mainland. Also read: Taiwan reports more suspected Chinese weather balloons crossing Taiwan Strait The representatives expressed “strong hope” that imports can resume, as per the state news agency Xinhua. As per the report, a few Taiwanese grouper farming enterprises have gone ahead and registered with mainland customs authorities and will begin exporting immediately. The announcement has been made by Beijing just weeks before the presidential election in Taiwan on January 13. The election is set to shape future cross-strait relations after years of tension during the presidency of Tsai Ing-wen, who belongs to the independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party and came to power in 2016. China considers self-ruled Taiwan as its breakaway territory which should be united with the mainland and has never stopped using force to do so. Watch: Taiwan on high alert for Chinese activities, reports suspected Chinese balloons crossing Taiwan Meanwhile, Taiwan is not recognised as an independent country by many countries, however, countries like the United States oppose a forcible change in the status quo. KMT’s vice-chairman Andrew Hsia Li-yan had raised the issues being faced by Taiwanese food importers, which included the grouper ban, in a visit to the mainland in February. On his 10-day trip, Hsia held meetings with top Taiwan affairs officials, which included Wang Huning, head of the top political advisory body of China and head of the State Council’s Taiwan Affairs Office Song Tao. (With inputs from agencies)

Mainland China resumes fish imports from Taiwan weeks before polls

The former American president Donald Trump's daughter and son-in-law visited Israel to express their solidarity with the country in its War. Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner also visited the Kibbutz in southern Israel that was devastated on the 7th of October.

Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner visit Israeli Kibbutz

An international astronaut will be landing on the surface of the Moon as part of NASA's Artemis program. Vice President Kamala Harris announced this at the National Space Council meeting in Washington.

NASA's Artemis mission to take an international astronaut to Lunar Space

China's economic struggles post-pandemic are causing a global stir, as it faces a unique challenge of intensified deflation risks. Lockdowns and supply chain disruptions during heightened global demand led to excess supply when China reopened in 2023, pushing domestic and export prices into deflation. The impact? Plunging export prices, affecting major trading partners and potentially reshaping the world's economic dynamics.

Excess supply freezes China's exports, sending deflationary waves

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