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The lower chamber of Brazil's Congress on Tuesday passed a bill to ease environmental regulations in order to build a highway through the heart of the Amazon.&nbsp;

The plan has been subjected to massive criticism as scientists believe that it will endanger the world's largest tropical rainforest.&nbsp;

The bill still needs Senate approval.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attacks-against-canada-wont-justin-trudeau-says-tonal-shift-in-ties-with-india-671891">‘Attacks against Canada won’t make problem go away’, says Trudeau, cites 'tonal shift' on India’s part</a>&nbsp;

The bill provides for using conservation funds donated to Brazil, such as the $1.3 billion Amazon Fund supported by the United States and European allies, to finance the highway project.&nbsp;

As reported by Mongabay, the Minister of Transport had already announced the intention to use money from the Amazon Fund to make the environmental part of the project viable, and the current PL (Projeto de Lei) goes further and wants this money to also pay for the asphalt itself.&nbsp;

The roadway was created by a military regime eager to colonise the Amazon in the 1970s, but it was swiftly abandoned.&nbsp;

Most of the 900-kilometre roadway from Porto Velho in Rondonia state to Manaus in Amazonas state had deteriorated into a rutted dirt road by the late 1980s.&nbsp;

Much of the route is now impassable during the rainy season. Vehicles that attempt it during dry months crawl along the broken pavement, dodging huge potholes and jungle debris.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-british-teenagers-found-guilty-of-disturbing-murder-of-16-year-old-trans-girl-671881">Two British teenagers found guilty of ‘disturbing’ murder of 16-year-old trans girl</a>&nbsp;

The news agency Reuters reported that the Amazon academics have said that the repaved road will cause an explosion of deforestation in Amazonas state, which is home to the majority of Brazil's best-preserved rainforest due to a lack of roadways.&nbsp;

Every major highway project in the Amazon has set off a surge in land grabbing and illegal deforestation. Researchers say BR-319 would open a new frontier for logging that could push the rainforest past a point of no return.&nbsp;

The project's supporters argue that it is vital to alleviate the isolation of the two connected states, Amazonas and Rondonia.&nbsp;

With the BR-319 out of operation for much of the year, Manaus is frequently only accessible by river or plane from the rest of Brazil.&nbsp;

The bill calls the highway "critical infrastructure, indispensable to national security, requiring the guarantee of its trafficability."&nbsp;

It would authorise the use of donations received by Brazil to help the conservation of the Amazon for the "recovery, paving and increasing the capacity of the highway."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The lower chamber of Brazil's Congress on Tuesday passed a bill to ease environmental regulations in order to build a highway through the heart of the Amazon. The plan has been subjected to massive criticism as scientists believe that it will endanger the world's largest tropical rainforest.

The lower chamber of Brazil's Congress on Tuesday passed a bill to ease environmental regulations in order to build a highway through the heart of the Amazon. The plan has been subjected to massive criticism as scientists believe that it will endanger the world's largest tropical rainforest. The bill still needs Senate approval. Also read: ‘Attacks against Canada won’t make problem go away’, says Trudeau, cites 'tonal shift' on India’s part The bill provides for using conservation funds donated to Brazil, such as the $1.3 billion Amazon Fund supported by the United States and European allies, to finance the highway project. As reported by Mongabay, the Minister of Transport had already announced the intention to use money from the Amazon Fund to make the environmental part of the project viable, and the current PL (Projeto de Lei) goes further and wants this money to also pay for the asphalt itself. The roadway was created by a military regime eager to colonise the Amazon in the 1970s, but it was swiftly abandoned. Most of the 900-kilometre roadway from Porto Velho in Rondonia state to Manaus in Amazonas state had deteriorated into a rutted dirt road by the late 1980s. Much of the route is now impassable during the rainy season. Vehicles that attempt it during dry months crawl along the broken pavement, dodging huge potholes and jungle debris. Also read: Two British teenagers found guilty of ‘disturbing’ murder of 16-year-old trans girl The news agency Reuters reported that the Amazon academics have said that the repaved road will cause an explosion of deforestation in Amazonas state, which is home to the majority of Brazil's best-preserved rainforest due to a lack of roadways. Every major highway project in the Amazon has set off a surge in land grabbing and illegal deforestation. Researchers say BR-319 would open a new frontier for logging that could push the rainforest past a point of no return. The project's supporters argue that it is vital to alleviate the isolation of the two connected states, Amazonas and Rondonia. With the BR-319 out of operation for much of the year, Manaus is frequently only accessible by river or plane from the rest of Brazil. The bill calls the highway "critical infrastructure, indispensable to national security, requiring the guarantee of its trafficability." It would authorise the use of donations received by Brazil to help the conservation of the Amazon for the "recovery, paving and increasing the capacity of the highway." (With inputs from agencies)

Amazon conservation funds might now be used to destroy a major portion of it

In China's eyes, all three Taiwan presidential candidates are separatists, the frontrunner to be the island's next leader said on Wednesday in a fractious joint televised address with the other contenders. The January 13 presidential and parliamentary elections will define Chinese-claimed Taiwan's ties with Beijing and are happening as China steps up military activities around the island to assert its sovereignty claims.

Taiwan presidential candidates lock horns in first televised debate ahead of polls

Yemen's Houthis have stepped up attacks on cargo ships in the Red Sea. Why are Houthis attacking these vessels? Oil prices soar as Red Sea tensions rise More than 100 ships rerouted. Is Suez Canal heading to a blockade? Houthis vow to continue these attacks What will be the crisis' implication on the global trade? Is Red Sea becoming the new focal point of Israel-Hamas War?

Red Sea attacks: What's at stake?

The leader of Hamas visited Egypt for this first time in more than a month on Wednesday, a rare personal intervention in diplomacy amid what a source described as intensive talks on a new ceasefire to let aid reach Gaza and free more hostages.

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas leader visits Egypt amid intensive talks on new ceasefire

Police said on Tuesday (Dec 19) that a 10-year-old boy accidentally shot his sister in the face while they sat in an unattended car in a Florida gas station parking lot.&nbsp;

As reported by WPTV reported, West Palm Beach Police said the accidental shooting happened at a RaceTrac gas station.&nbsp;

Reports have said that the boy found a loaded semi-automatic Glock handgun in the car's centre console.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attacks-against-canada-wont-justin-trudeau-says-tonal-shift-in-ties-with-india-671891">‘Attacks against Canada won’t make problem go away’, says Trudeau, cites 'tonal shift' on India’s part</a>&nbsp;

As per the police, the boy told them that the gun accidentally fired, and hit his eight-year-old sister in the face.&nbsp;

Mike Jachles, who is the West Palm Beach Police Department spokesman, said: "She was conscious and alert. She was taken to St. Mary’s Medical Center by the West Palm Beach Fire Department paramedics."&nbsp;

"The bullet is apparently lodged somewhere in the door or frame of the vehicle," he added.&nbsp;

WPTV reported that Jachles said that the girl was taken to St Mary's Medical Center and is expected to survive.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-release-close-ally-of-venezuela-president-maduro-in-exchange-of-us-detainees-671903">US to release close ally of Venezuela President Maduro in exchange of US detainees</a>&nbsp;

West Palm Beach resident Mary Christie told CBS12 NEWS: "I see it too often with these kids getting hold of these guns. This shouldn't even have to be said, the gun should have been put away safely."&nbsp;

"Let's put the guns away safely and keep them away from the kids. An accident could happen any minute like this. This could have been a deadly accident," Christie added.&nbsp;

Jachles said: "Every handgun comes with responsible ownership. Every handgun should be treated as if it’s loaded."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Police said on Tuesday (Dec 19) that a 10-year-old boy accidentally shot his sister in the face while they sat in an unattended car in a Florida gas station parking lot.

Police said on Tuesday (Dec 19) that a 10-year-old boy accidentally shot his sister in the face while they sat in an unattended car in a Florida gas station parking lot. As reported by WPTV reported, West Palm Beach Police said the accidental shooting happened at a RaceTrac gas station. Reports have said that the boy found a loaded semi-automatic Glock handgun in the car's centre console. Also read: ‘Attacks against Canada won’t make problem go away’, says Trudeau, cites 'tonal shift' on India’s part As per the police, the boy told them that the gun accidentally fired, and hit his eight-year-old sister in the face. Mike Jachles, who is the West Palm Beach Police Department spokesman, said: "She was conscious and alert. She was taken to St. Mary’s Medical Center by the West Palm Beach Fire Department paramedics." "The bullet is apparently lodged somewhere in the door or frame of the vehicle," he added. WPTV reported that Jachles said that the girl was taken to St Mary's Medical Center and is expected to survive. Also read: US to release close ally of Venezuela President Maduro in exchange of US detainees West Palm Beach resident Mary Christie told CBS12 NEWS: "I see it too often with these kids getting hold of these guns. This shouldn't even have to be said, the gun should have been put away safely." "Let's put the guns away safely and keep them away from the kids. An accident could happen any minute like this. This could have been a deadly accident," Christie added. Jachles said: "Every handgun comes with responsible ownership. Every handgun should be treated as if it’s loaded." (With inputs from agencies)

Florida: 10-year-old accidentally shoots younger sister in face

France passed the controversial Immigration Bill. The Bill secures a policy win for President Emmanuel Macron. Bill passed amid deep division in Emmanuel Macron's party.

Europe immigration crisis: France passes new immigration agreemen

In a rare case, a healthy teenage girl suddenly complained about facing trouble breathing, days after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. As per doctors, the girl's vocal cords were paralysed by the COVID-19. 
 
After the diagnosis, the girl had to undergo a surgical tracheostomy – in which an opening was made in her windpipe which was below her voice box – to support her breath.

As per the event's new case report, the impact of COVID-19 on the nervous system may lead to paralysis of the vocal cord in rare cases. The authors said that this is the first case of a teenager suffering vocal cord paralysis after she was diagnosed with COVID-19, although there were reports of adults suffering from similar conditions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-scare-returns-with-jn1-rearing-its-head-do-you-need-to-worry-experts-speak-671776">Covid scare returns: With JN.1 spreading fast, do you need to worry? Experts speak</a>

"The virus has known neurologic complications, including headache, seizure, and peripheral neuropathy," said otolaryngologists Danielle Larrow and Christopher Hartnick from Mass Eye and Ear at Harvard Medical School. 
 
"The current case reveals that vocal cord paralysis may be an additional neuropathic sequela of the virus,” he added.

<h2>Doctors investigate girl's symptoms</h2>

Thirteen days after the 15-year-old girl tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, she was taken to the hospital emergency department. Her initial symptoms were fever, congestion and fatigue, which improved after five days. However, after nine days of getting tested, she said that she is facing trouble breathing, especially when she is active. 
 
It was noted by emergency department doctors that her breathing was rapid and noisy while inhaling, which indicated obstructed airflow, although her oxygen levels remained normal. Tests for respiratory infections, including SARS-CoV-2, came negative. 
 
The girl, who had a history of anxiety and asthma, was given bronchodilators and steroids for a suspected asthma attack, however, that didn't help.

Watch:&nbsp;Covid-19 makes global comeback; new Omicron sub-variant JN.1 causes global concern&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-makes-global-comeback-new-omicron-sub-variant-jn1-causes-global-concern-wion-671372/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Her vocal cords were examined by the otolaryngologists and she was diagnosed with paradoxical vocal fold motion (PVFM), in which the vocal cords close instead of opening when a person tries to breathe. 
 
The girl started undergoing speech therapy to treat the involuntary closure, however, there were no improvements in her symptoms and it became clear that they failed to match the typical signs of PVFM. 
 
Her vocal cords were examined again by the otolaryngologists and this time, the girl was diagnosed with bilateral vocal cord paralysis, which meant both her vocal cords were not moving. 
 
On the basis of their findings, the doctors said that the previous COVID-19 infection of the teenager may have weakened her vocal cords and may have also led to numbness and weakness on one side.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a rare case, a healthy teenage girl suddenly complained about facing trouble breathing, days after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. As per doctors, the girl's vocal cords were paralysed by the COVID-19.

In a rare case, a healthy teenage girl suddenly complained about facing trouble breathing, days after a SARS-CoV-2 infection. As per doctors, the girl's vocal cords were paralysed by the COVID-19. After the diagnosis, the girl had to undergo a surgical tracheostomy – in which an opening was made in her windpipe which was below her voice box – to support her breath. As per the event's new case report, the impact of COVID-19 on the nervous system may lead to paralysis of the vocal cord in rare cases. The authors said that this is the first case of a teenager suffering vocal cord paralysis after she was diagnosed with COVID-19, although there were reports of adults suffering from similar conditions. Also read: Covid scare returns: With JN.1 spreading fast, do you need to worry? Experts speak "The virus has known neurologic complications, including headache, seizure, and peripheral neuropathy," said otolaryngologists Danielle Larrow and Christopher Hartnick from Mass Eye and Ear at Harvard Medical School. "The current case reveals that vocal cord paralysis may be an additional neuropathic sequela of the virus,” he added. Doctors investigate girl's symptoms Thirteen days after the 15-year-old girl tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, she was taken to the hospital emergency department. Her initial symptoms were fever, congestion and fatigue, which improved after five days. However, after nine days of getting tested, she said that she is facing trouble breathing, especially when she is active. It was noted by emergency department doctors that her breathing was rapid and noisy while inhaling, which indicated obstructed airflow, although her oxygen levels remained normal. Tests for respiratory infections, including SARS-CoV-2, came negative. The girl, who had a history of anxiety and asthma, was given bronchodilators and steroids for a suspected asthma attack, however, that didn't help. Watch: Covid-19 makes global comeback; new Omicron sub-variant JN.1 causes global concern Her vocal cords were examined by the otolaryngologists and she was diagnosed with paradoxical vocal fold motion (PVFM), in which the vocal cords close instead of opening when a person tries to breathe. The girl started undergoing speech therapy to treat the involuntary closure, however, there were no improvements in her symptoms and it became clear that they failed to match the typical signs of PVFM. Her vocal cords were examined again by the otolaryngologists and this time, the girl was diagnosed with bilateral vocal cord paralysis, which meant both her vocal cords were not moving. On the basis of their findings, the doctors said that the previous COVID-19 infection of the teenager may have weakened her vocal cords and may have also led to numbness and weakness on one side. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19 infection paralyses vocal cords of teenager, first such case to be reported in world

US President Joe Biden said he does not expect an Israel-Hamas deal for the release of hostages held in Gaza to be struck soon. "We're pushing," Biden told reporters during a trip to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Efforts are under way to try to arrange for the release of more hostages, with the heads of the U.S. CIA, Israel's Mossad and Qatar's prime minister expected to meet and discuss the issue.

Israel-Hamas war: "No new hostage deal expected anytime soon", clarifies Joe Biden

Two 16-year-olds on Wednesday (Dec 20) were found guilty of the murder of a 16-year-old transgender girl who died in a "frenzied and ferocious" knife attack.&nbsp;

The girl, identified as Brianna Ghey, was stabbed 28 times reportedly in her head, neck, back and chest in Warrington, northwest England in February. Her body was discovered by dog walkers in a park.&nbsp;

She was born male but lived as a female.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attacks-against-canada-wont-justin-trudeau-says-tonal-shift-in-ties-with-india-671891">‘Attacks against Canada won’t make problem go away’, says Trudeau, cites 'tonal shift' on India’s part</a>&nbsp;

The teenagers were found guilty unanimously by a jury at Manchester crown court. They are known as Girl X and Boy Y to protect their identities as they cannot be named because of their ages.&nbsp;

The court heard during the trial how the pair discussed killing Ghey in the days and weeks before she died. Justice Amanda Yip, who is the judge, said she would sentence the pair next month. The case drew international attention and shock in Britain, given the young age of the pair arrested.&nbsp;

A jury of seven men and five women convicted the two following a four-week trial at Manchester Crown Court.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-release-close-ally-of-venezuela-president-maduro-in-exchange-of-us-detainees-671903">US to release close ally of Venezuela President Maduro in exchange of US detainees</a>&nbsp;

Yip warned the two defendants and said, "I will have to impose a life sentence. What I have to decide is the minimum amount of time you will be required to serve before you might be considered for release."&nbsp;

The court heard how one of the accused, girl X, had downloaded an internet browser app that allowed her to enjoy watching videos of the torture and murder of real people, in "red rooms" on the "dark web".

The court was told that the girl grew an interest in serial killers, making notes on their methods, and admitted enjoying "dark fantasies" about killing and torture.&nbsp;

As per prosecutors, the pair later drew up a "kill list" of four other youths they intended to harm, until Ghey had the "misfortune" to be befriended by girl X, who became "obsessed" with her.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Two 16-year-olds on Wednesday (Dec 20) were found guilty of the murder of a 16-year-old transgender girl who died in a "frenzied and ferocious" knife attack. The girl, identified as Brianna Ghey, was stabbed 28 times reportedly in her head, neck, back and chest in Warrington, northwest England in February.

Two 16-year-olds on Wednesday (Dec 20) were found guilty of the murder of a 16-year-old transgender girl who died in a "frenzied and ferocious" knife attack. The girl, identified as Brianna Ghey, was stabbed 28 times reportedly in her head, neck, back and chest in Warrington, northwest England in February. Her body was discovered by dog walkers in a park. She was born male but lived as a female. Also read: ‘Attacks against Canada won’t make problem go away’, says Trudeau, cites 'tonal shift' on India’s part The teenagers were found guilty unanimously by a jury at Manchester crown court. They are known as Girl X and Boy Y to protect their identities as they cannot be named because of their ages. The court heard during the trial how the pair discussed killing Ghey in the days and weeks before she died. Justice Amanda Yip, who is the judge, said she would sentence the pair next month. The case drew international attention and shock in Britain, given the young age of the pair arrested. A jury of seven men and five women convicted the two following a four-week trial at Manchester Crown Court. Also read: US to release close ally of Venezuela President Maduro in exchange of US detainees Yip warned the two defendants and said, "I will have to impose a life sentence. What I have to decide is the minimum amount of time you will be required to serve before you might be considered for release." The court heard how one of the accused, girl X, had downloaded an internet browser app that allowed her to enjoy watching videos of the torture and murder of real people, in "red rooms" on the "dark web". The court was told that the girl grew an interest in serial killers, making notes on their methods, and admitted enjoying "dark fantasies" about killing and torture. As per prosecutors, the pair later drew up a "kill list" of four other youths they intended to harm, until Ghey had the "misfortune" to be befriended by girl X, who became "obsessed" with her. (With inputs from agencies)

Two British teenagers found guilty of ‘disturbing’ murder of 16-year-old trans girl

The United States is preparing to release Colombian businessman Alex Saab, a close ally of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in exchange for Americans jailed in Venezuelan prisons, according to multiple news reports in the Western media. CBS News reported that a deal has been reached between the two countries and Venezuela will release at least eight Americans from its jails.

Alex Saab has been accused by US prosecutors of stealing USD 350 million from Venezuela via the US, an operation that prosecutors say involved bribing government officials in Venezuela. Saab denies the charges.

In October this year, the United States relaxed some sanctions on Venezuela after the latter agreed to hold fair elections in 2024.

However, the White House has said that it was ready to pause the sanction relief unless there was progress on the issue of prisoners.

Reuters reported that US President Joe Biden was asked about the progress on prisoner exchange by reporters in Wisconsin to which he said the situation "looks good."

"It looks like Maduro, so far, is keeping his commitment on a free election. It ain't done yet. Got a long way to go. But it's good so far," said Biden as quoted by Reuters.

<h2>A major gain</h2>

Although Venezuela is releasing several American prisoners in exchange for one person, the release of Saab is being considered a major gain for Maduro. Saab's return to Venezuela was earlier seen as unlikely. But he has not yet been convicted in the US.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said earlier today that he was looking forward to the release of Americans from Venezuelan custody.

"We want to make sure that our fellow Americans are released. We are also focused on political prisoners in Venezuela and trying to ensure their release," said Antony Blinken.

"We hope to have some good news to share probably later today."

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States is preparing to release Colombian businessman Alex Saab, a close ally of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in exchange for Americans jailed in Venezuelan prisons, according to multiple news reports in the Western media.

The United States is preparing to release Colombian businessman Alex Saab, a close ally of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in exchange for Americans jailed in Venezuelan prisons, according to multiple news reports in the Western media. CBS News reported that a deal has been reached between the two countries and Venezuela will release at least eight Americans from its jails. Alex Saab has been accused by US prosecutors of stealing USD 350 million from Venezuela via the US, an operation that prosecutors say involved bribing government officials in Venezuela. Saab denies the charges. In October this year, the United States relaxed some sanctions on Venezuela after the latter agreed to hold fair elections in 2024. However, the White House has said that it was ready to pause the sanction relief unless there was progress on the issue of prisoners. Reuters reported that US President Joe Biden was asked about the progress on prisoner exchange by reporters in Wisconsin to which he said the situation "looks good." "It looks like Maduro, so far, is keeping his commitment on a free election. It ain't done yet. Got a long way to go. But it's good so far," said Biden as quoted by Reuters. A major gain Although Venezuela is releasing several American prisoners in exchange for one person, the release of Saab is being considered a major gain for Maduro. Saab's return to Venezuela was earlier seen as unlikely. But he has not yet been convicted in the US. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said earlier today that he was looking forward to the release of Americans from Venezuelan custody. "We want to make sure that our fellow Americans are released. We are also focused on political prisoners in Venezuela and trying to ensure their release," said Antony Blinken. "We hope to have some good news to share probably later today." (With inputs from agencies)

US to release close ally of Venezuela President Maduro in exchange for US detainees

Colorado Supreme Court disqualifies Donald Trump from primary ballot for inciting 2021 Capitol attack. Republican rival Vivek Ramaswamy has pledged to withdraw from the race until Trump is allowed. What's next for Republican poster boy Trump? Senior journalist, Ray Locker answers from Washington, D.C.

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The strong relationship between the two nations, which has endured despite Russia's military invasion of its neighbour Ukraine in early 2022, has faced pointed criticism from Western leaders in recent years.

China's Xi Jinping says strong Russia ties a 'strategic choice'

A popular training dataset for AI image generation contained links to child abuse imagery, Stanford’s Internet Observatory found, potentially allowing AI models to create harmful content.

Thousands of child abuse images found in AI training tool: Reports

Uncertainty looms over a new ceasefire deal in the ongoing Israel-Hamas War. The Hamas Chief Ismail Haniyeh's visit to Egypt and the Hamas Chief's engagement with other officials for the talks was seen as a positive sign. However, both sides have again indicated that a new agreement right now might be off the table.

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas says 'no hostage deal without complete ceasefire; Hamas Chief in Egypt

There seems to be no respite for battered global supply chains. First trade wars, followed by covid-led restrictions disrupted global supply chains. Now, it is the Israel-Hamas war. Global energy prices jumped as tensions escalated around the vital shipping route, where drone and missile assaults have prompted some companies to halt sending cargos.

Red Sea crisis raises the spectre of Supply Chain Disruption | World DNA | WION

A week after stalling an aid deal worth $54 billion to Ukraine, Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban has asserted that the money should not come out of the European Union (EU) budget, stating it remains a 'bad decision'.

A week after stalling an aid deal worth $54 billion to Ukraine, Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban has asserted that the money should not come out of the European Union (EU) budget, stating it remains a 'bad decision'. Orban justified his decision of vetoing the previous proposal saying Hungary's money was involved in the budget and therefore it had a say in the matter. "I am convinced that to give Ukraine 50 billion euros ($54.70 billion) from the EU budget for five years, in which there is no money for this, and by taking out a loan, that's a bad decision. Instead let's make a good decision, which is the Hungarian proposal," Orban was quoted as saying by Reuters. Quizzed about the possibility that the bloc's 26 other members might broker a deal between themselves and Kyiv, Orban said he would reserve his comments. "They have the possibility - if we don't agree on this - to resolve this outside the budget, but don't have the option of resolving this from the EU budget without Hungarian approval. They have the possibility, 26 members, to resolve this with a joint loan outside the budget. If this comes up, we will consider what we say." "We are not asking for anything, only that the budget should be implemented, but if they start amending the budget then the Hungarian interests will surface and we will negotiate accordingly," he added. Also watch | Hungary blocks Ukraine's EU membership bid Orban puts his foot down Last Friday, Orban put his foot down and delayed the deal until January next year, saying the European Council needed to come back to the proposal with proper preparation. EU chief Charles Michel refrained from divulging the details of the meeting. "I don't want to go too much into the details because I want to work with colleagues in the days to come, in the weeks to come to prepare a summit that will take place next year, early next year," Michel said. Also read | Ukraine next EU member? Kyiv may get membership lifeboat amid sinking wartime fortunes Orban tanking the deal came after the bloc opened membership talks for Ukraine. The war-ravaged nation has been desperate to join the EU, to consolidate the member nations in the war against Russia. Ukraine applied for EU membership in February last year, just four days after Russia launched an offensive on Kyiv. Initially, Orban had threatened to veto the plan as well but ducked out of it as other members called his bluff. (With inputs from agencies)

Hungary's Orban says $54bn aid to Ukraine from EU budget is a 'bad decision'

Harvard President Claudine Gay under microscope over plagiarism. According to reports, Gay committed plagiarism as a student. Plagiarism discovered in Gay's Doctoral Dissertation.

Harvard President scholarly work under microscope over plagiarism

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has made a massive charge at the Pakistani military. He has blamed the military for the country's economic problems. In a recent address, Sharif said that neither India nor the U.S. are responsible for Pakistan's problems. 'We have shot ourselves in the foot,' he said.

Shift in Pakistan's anti-India rhetoric amidst election frenzy?

Apart from Ukrainian shelling and drone attacks, Russian soldiers on the front line are facing another threat. Ukrainian Intelligence claims that the troops are experiencing the effect of Mouse Fever.

Russia soldiers fighting another front, face 'Mouse Fever outbreak': Ukraine | World News | WION

Some of the Americans who were freed by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government in a U.S. prisoner swap have landed at a U.S. military base in San Antonio, Texas, a Reuters witness said.

Americans freed by Venezuela in US prisoner swap land at Texas base

The secret space plane of China is likely to be sending signals to maybe a ship or a hidden ground station near the west coast of North America, said amateur astronomer Scott Tilley, who has kept track of the craft since it entered the orbit of Earth last week. 
 
The astronomer claimed that strong emissions, which were at the frequency of 2280 megahertz, were detected at a time when the uncrewed reusable plane flew over British Columbia in Canada, as reported by the South China Morning Post. 
 
“I’m seeing a pattern in its radio emissions while over me and it appears to favour low-elevation western passes,” said Tilley, who has earlier worked with NASA in finding its long-lost IMAGE satellite in 2018. 
 
“This could indicate a clandestine ground station on the west coast of North America or on a ship off the coast,” he added while clarifying that he was speculating.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/amateur-trackers-claim-china-has-deployed-6-mysterious-unidentified-objects-in-earth-orbit-671239">Chinese space plane deployed 6 mysterious 'wingmen' in Earth's orbit: Reports</a>

China's secret plane, which has been seen as the US military space plane X-37B's counterpart, has been closely followed by satellite trackers from across the world since it took off from the Gobi Desert.

<h2>Six objects now flying in Earth's lower orbit: Tilley</h2>

As per Tilley and his team in Switzerland, which has specialised in optical-band space surveillance, because of the secret plane's launch, at least six objects are now flying in the lower orbit of the Earth. 
 
Tilley added that the six objects also included the space plane, which was designated by him as object A and looked very bright with a stable altitude control. 
 
He added that probably there was a pair of satellites (objects D and E) which were released by the plane and emitted radio signals which were similar to object A, “but without any form of data, just idle filler”.

Watch:&nbsp;China rocked by 6.2-magnitude earthquake

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-china-rocked-by-62-magnitude-earthquake-671498/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Tilley added that although both the satellite's purpose remains unknown, there is a possibility that they were being used to “test rendezvous and retrieval operations”. 
 
Taking to social media platform X, the European team wrote that object B was “very bright” and its light curve was pointing to a rocket upper stage. Tilley said that Objects C and F also appeared to be rocket debris since they were tumbling and dim. 
 
It is the third mission of the Chinese plane after their two-day maiden flight in 2020 followed by a second flight which lasted only for nine months. As per reports, the plane released mysterious objects during the two previous missions.

(With inputs from agencies)

The secret space plane of China is likely to be sending signals to maybe a ship or a hidden ground station near the west coast of North America, said amateur astronomer Scott Tilley, who has kept track of the craft since it entered the orbit of Earth last week.

The secret space plane of China is likely to be sending signals to maybe a ship or a hidden ground station near the west coast of North America, said amateur astronomer Scott Tilley, who has kept track of the craft since it entered the orbit of Earth last week. The astronomer claimed that strong emissions, which were at the frequency of 2280 megahertz, were detected at a time when the uncrewed reusable plane flew over British Columbia in Canada, as reported by the South China Morning Post. “I’m seeing a pattern in its radio emissions while over me and it appears to favour low-elevation western passes,” said Tilley, who has earlier worked with NASA in finding its long-lost IMAGE satellite in 2018. “This could indicate a clandestine ground station on the west coast of North America or on a ship off the coast,” he added while clarifying that he was speculating. Also read: Chinese space plane deployed 6 mysterious 'wingmen' in Earth's orbit: Reports China's secret plane, which has been seen as the US military space plane X-37B's counterpart, has been closely followed by satellite trackers from across the world since it took off from the Gobi Desert. Six objects now flying in Earth's lower orbit: Tilley As per Tilley and his team in Switzerland, which has specialised in optical-band space surveillance, because of the secret plane's launch, at least six objects are now flying in the lower orbit of the Earth. Tilley added that the six objects also included the space plane, which was designated by him as object A and looked very bright with a stable altitude control. He added that probably there was a pair of satellites (objects D and E) which were released by the plane and emitted radio signals which were similar to object A, “but without any form of data, just idle filler”. Watch: China rocked by 6.2-magnitude earthquake Tilley added that although both the satellite's purpose remains unknown, there is a possibility that they were being used to “test rendezvous and retrieval operations”. Taking to social media platform X, the European team wrote that object B was “very bright” and its light curve was pointing to a rocket upper stage. Tilley said that Objects C and F also appeared to be rocket debris since they were tumbling and dim. It is the third mission of the Chinese plane after their two-day maiden flight in 2020 followed by a second flight which lasted only for nine months. As per reports, the plane released mysterious objects during the two previous missions. (With inputs from agencies)

China's secret aircraft sending signals to hidden station in US? Satellite tracker says 'maybe'

The city of El Paso, Texas, was described as being at a "breaking point" due to a dramatic increase in migrants crossing the US border from Mexico. The migrant crisis has been ongoing since 2018, with periodic surges and lulls.

US: Authorities close bridges with Mexico to contain migration

In order to combat the Houthi danger to the commercial boats operating in the area, India has sent its warships to the Red Sea. INS Kochi and INS Kolkata are now conducting patrols in the Gulf of Aden, which links the Arabian Sea with the Red Sea.

Indian stations two destroyers off Aden Coast for maritime security | Fight against Houthis

Israeli forces uncovered a network of tunnels running deep beneath central Gaza City from properties registered to Yahya Sinwar and other senior Hamas organizers of the Oct. 7 attacks on Israel, the military said on Wednesday.

Israel-Hamas war: IDF ‘almost catches’ Yahya Sinwar | Tunnels from Hamas leaders' homes found by IDF

The former highest-ranking female civil servant in Britain has stated that Downing Street's reaction to the Covid-19 issue was hindered by a "macho" culture "contaminated by ego," with Boris Johnson thinking the nation would "sail through" while implementing "handbrake turns" in policy.

UK Covid Mismangement: ‘Macho’ culture has hit UK’s Covid response: Former senior civil servant

Former Mayor of New York City Rudy Giuliani has been ordered by a federal judge on Wednesday (Dec 20) to immediately start paying the $148 million he owes to two former election workers in the US state of Georgia after he was found guilty of falsely accusing them of manipulating ballots after the 2020 elections&nbsp;last week.&nbsp;

<h2>What did the judge say?</h2>

The decision by Judge Beryl Howell was in response to the former Georgia election workers’ request who sued the former NYC mayor over defamation claims and sought the $148 million. &nbsp;

The mother-daughter duo, Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss had argued that Giuliani would not have had the money to pay them when the 30-day waiting period on the payouts was lifted and even might&nbsp; have “conceal his assets”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-trump-attorney-rudy-giuliani-opts-not-to-testify-in-georgia-defamation-trial-669762">Former Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani opts not to testify in Georgia defamation trial</a>

The latest decision comes as Giuliani is facing a number of legal woes for his efforts to keep former President Donald Trump in office even though he lost to incumbent Joe Biden.&nbsp;

The former NYC Mayor, who is already strapped for cash, according to the latest order will not have the 30-day stay that would have delayed his payments. Freeman and Moss filed the request days after a jury in Washington DC imposed the fine.&nbsp;

In their request, the mother-daughter duo argued that Giuliani had already failed to obey other court orders in the case related to money that he owed them including women’s legal fees of over $200,000.&nbsp;

Therefore, there is “especially good reason,” lawyers for the women wrote, “to believe that defendant Giuliani intends to evade payment of the judgment by any means he can devise.”

In his 13-page order, the judge said Giuliani has proven to be an “uncooperative litigant,” and that she agreed with Freeman and Moss’ points. Howell added that throughout the case, the former NYC mayor had an “ample record” of efforts meant to conceal or hide financial assets.

<h2>What did Giuliani do?</h2>

Giuliani was found guilty by an eight-person jury in Washington DC for repeatedly defaming&nbsp;Freeman and Moss and was asked to pay $148 million in damages last week.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-trump-lawyer-rudy-giuliani-slapped-with-default-judgment-and-penalties-in-defamation-lawsuit-630659">Former Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani slapped with default judgment and penalties in defamation lawsuit</a>

The defamation case centres around Giuliani, then personal lawyer to the former president Donald Trump, directing his millions of social media followers to watch a video of them in a Georgia vote-counting centre and without any evidence claiming that they were manipulating ballots to make Trump lose.&nbsp;

During the trial, the women described how his claims led to a torrent of threats and racist abuse to the point where they left their home in 2021 for two months at the recommendation of the FBI.&nbsp;

The $148 million owed to Freeman and Moss includes $75 million in punitive damages, along with awards of $20 million to each of the two election workers for emotional distress and more than $16 million each for defamation.

Giuliani called the damages figure “absurd” and vowed to appeal.&nbsp;

Howell, in her order, also noted that she did not consider the amount excessive, saying that the “amount of compensatory damages for defamation awarded by the jury was nearly $10,000,000 less than the amount requested by plaintiffs for reputational harm.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Former Mayor of New York City Rudy Giuliani has been ordered by a federal judge on Wednesday (Dec 20) to immediately start paying the $148 million he owes to two former election workers in the US state of Georgia after he was found guilty of falsely accusing them of manipulating ballots after the 2020 elections last week.

Former Mayor of New York City Rudy Giuliani has been ordered by a federal judge on Wednesday (Dec 20) to immediately start paying the $148 million he owes to two former election workers in the US state of Georgia after he was found guilty of falsely accusing them of manipulating ballots after the 2020 elections last week. What did the judge say? The decision by Judge Beryl Howell was in response to the former Georgia election workers’ request who sued the former NYC mayor over defamation claims and sought the $148 million. The mother-daughter duo, Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss had argued that Giuliani would not have had the money to pay them when the 30-day waiting period on the payouts was lifted and even might have “conceal his assets”. ALSO READ | Former Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani opts not to testify in Georgia defamation trial The latest decision comes as Giuliani is facing a number of legal woes for his efforts to keep former President Donald Trump in office even though he lost to incumbent Joe Biden. The former NYC Mayor, who is already strapped for cash, according to the latest order will not have the 30-day stay that would have delayed his payments. Freeman and Moss filed the request days after a jury in Washington DC imposed the fine. In their request, the mother-daughter duo argued that Giuliani had already failed to obey other court orders in the case related to money that he owed them including women’s legal fees of over $200,000. Therefore, there is “especially good reason,” lawyers for the women wrote, “to believe that defendant Giuliani intends to evade payment of the judgment by any means he can devise.” In his 13-page order, the judge said Giuliani has proven to be an “uncooperative litigant,” and that she agreed with Freeman and Moss’ points. Howell added that throughout the case, the former NYC mayor had an “ample record” of efforts meant to conceal or hide financial assets. What did Giuliani do? Giuliani was found guilty by an eight-person jury in Washington DC for repeatedly defaming Freeman and Moss and was asked to pay $148 million in damages last week. ALSO READ | Former Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani slapped with default judgment and penalties in defamation lawsuit The defamation case centres around Giuliani, then personal lawyer to the former president Donald Trump, directing his millions of social media followers to watch a video of them in a Georgia vote-counting centre and without any evidence claiming that they were manipulating ballots to make Trump lose. During the trial, the women described how his claims led to a torrent of threats and racist abuse to the point where they left their home in 2021 for two months at the recommendation of the FBI. The $148 million owed to Freeman and Moss includes $75 million in punitive damages, along with awards of $20 million to each of the two election workers for emotional distress and more than $16 million each for defamation. Giuliani called the damages figure “absurd” and vowed to appeal. Howell, in her order, also noted that she did not consider the amount excessive, saying that the “amount of compensatory damages for defamation awarded by the jury was nearly $10,000,000 less than the amount requested by plaintiffs for reputational harm.” (With inputs from agencies)

Judge orders former Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani to immediately pay $148mn to Georgia election workers

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