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The United States faced allegations that it was plotting violence against Cuba, but the State Department denied all the claims. The remarks came a day after Havana claimed that Washington was seeking to foment unrest before the New Year. Cuba did not provide any concrete evidence to support the claims.&nbsp;

Cuba's Interior Ministry took to social media on Monday to warn of "plans by the State Department and intelligence community to increase subversive and violent attacks against Cuba in order to generate a social outbreak before the end of 2023".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-faces-14-murder-charges-for-allegedly-selling-suicide-kits-669084">Canadian faces 14 murder charges for allegedly selling suicide kits</a>&nbsp;

But, the State Department official rejected the idea. While responding to an email to the news agency Reuters, the official responded that the "allegations that the United States is encouraging violent actions against the Cuban government are absurd".&nbsp;

In a list published last week by Cuba, more than 80 foreign nationals and entities were accused of terrorism.&nbsp;

The long list of names included influencers, dissidents who reside in the US, and a candidate for mayor of Florida's Miami-Dade County.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-arrives-at-white-house-for-aid-talks-with-joe-biden-669060">Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200m emergency aid drawdown</a>&nbsp;

Cuba said on Saturday that it had thwarted a terrorist plot hatched in neighbouring south Florida that involved an armed man arriving on Cuban soil from the United States via jetski.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the State Department official said that the list and all the allegations levelled by Cuba were an effort to belittle its own citizens abroad.&nbsp;

"These most recent allegations are the newest iteration of Cuban authorities' efforts to belittle emigrants exercising their freedom of speech, including criticizing Cuba's abysmal human rights record and relentless repression," the official said.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The United States faced allegations that it was plotting violence against Cuba, but the State Department denied all the claims. The remarks came a day after Havana claimed that Washington was seeking to foment unrest before the New Year.

The United States faced allegations that it was plotting violence against Cuba, but the State Department denied all the claims. The remarks came a day after Havana claimed that Washington was seeking to foment unrest before the New Year. Cuba did not provide any concrete evidence to support the claims. Cuba's Interior Ministry took to social media on Monday to warn of "plans by the State Department and intelligence community to increase subversive and violent attacks against Cuba in order to generate a social outbreak before the end of 2023". Also read: Canadian faces 14 murder charges for allegedly selling suicide kits But, the State Department official rejected the idea. While responding to an email to the news agency Reuters, the official responded that the "allegations that the United States is encouraging violent actions against the Cuban government are absurd". In a list published last week by Cuba, more than 80 foreign nationals and entities were accused of terrorism. The long list of names included influencers, dissidents who reside in the US, and a candidate for mayor of Florida's Miami-Dade County. Also read: Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200m emergency aid drawdown Cuba said on Saturday that it had thwarted a terrorist plot hatched in neighbouring south Florida that involved an armed man arriving on Cuban soil from the United States via jetski. Meanwhile, the State Department official said that the list and all the allegations levelled by Cuba were an effort to belittle its own citizens abroad. "These most recent allegations are the newest iteration of Cuban authorities' efforts to belittle emigrants exercising their freedom of speech, including criticizing Cuba's abysmal human rights record and relentless repression," the official said. (With inputs from agencies)

US rejects claims that it was plotting violent attacks against Cuba

A Member of the Parliament collapsed while addressnig the House. Reports suggest that Hasan Bitmez suffered a heart attack and fell besides his podium while addressing the grand assembly. He is currently in a critical condition.

Turkey MP Hasan Bitmez suffers heart attack during speech in Parliament, in critical condition

Britain's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak received a huge relief for now as the lawmakers on Tuesday (Dec 12) voted in favour of the government's latest plans to send migrants to Rwanda. The plans emerged as a massive problem for Sunak as it has split the ruling Conservative party.&nbsp;

The emergency bill was the government's response to the Supreme Court's unanimous decision in November which said that deporting asylum seekers to Rwanda was unconstitutional under international law.&nbsp;

The parliamentary vote saw 313 MPs vote for the Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill, with 269 against.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-migrant-dies-on-housing-barge-holding-asylum-seekers-668986">Migrant dies on housing barge holding asylum seekers</a>&nbsp;

Sunak's plan is part of wider government action to reduce record levels of regular and irregular immigration. The immigration issue is expected to take centre stage at next year's election.&nbsp;

The bill has led to Tory infighting, something similar to what the world saw during the Brexit voting. But still, Sunak sought to to declare Rwanda safe despite concerns from human rights monitors, and removing legal challenges to deportation orders.&nbsp;

As per the hardline right-wingers, the proposals are not tough enough, while more liberal Tories are concerned they could see the UK break international law if they are amended down the line.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Why Prince Harry has to pay $60,000 to a newspaper publisher&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-far-right-polish-lawmaker-uses-fire-extinguisher-to-put-out-hanukkah-candles-669050">Far-right Polish lawmaker uses fire extinguisher to put out Hanukkah candles</a>&nbsp;

<h2>'We will not be supporting it'&nbsp;</h2>

Just a few minutes before the vote, MP Mark Francois told reporters that the "five families" of right-wing Tory factions had met and decided not to support the bill.&nbsp;

Francois, who is the chairman of the European Research Group of Tory MPs who advocated a "hard" Brexit, said: "We have decided collectively that we cannot support the bill tonight because of its many omissions... We will not be supporting it."&nbsp;

"The prime minister has been telling colleagues today he is prepared to entertain tightening the bill. With that aim, at the committee stage we will aim to table amendments which would, we hope, if accepted, materially improve the bill and remove some of its weaknesses," Francois added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Britain's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak received a huge relief for now as the lawmakers on Tuesday (Dec 12) voted in favour of the government's latest plans to send migrants to Rwanda.

Britain's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak received a huge relief for now as the lawmakers on Tuesday (Dec 12) voted in favour of the government's latest plans to send migrants to Rwanda. The plans emerged as a massive problem for Sunak as it has split the ruling Conservative party. The emergency bill was the government's response to the Supreme Court's unanimous decision in November which said that deporting asylum seekers to Rwanda was unconstitutional under international law. The parliamentary vote saw 313 MPs vote for the Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill, with 269 against. Also read: Migrant dies on housing barge holding asylum seekers Sunak's plan is part of wider government action to reduce record levels of regular and irregular immigration. The immigration issue is expected to take centre stage at next year's election. The bill has led to Tory infighting, something similar to what the world saw during the Brexit voting. But still, Sunak sought to to declare Rwanda safe despite concerns from human rights monitors, and removing legal challenges to deportation orders. As per the hardline right-wingers, the proposals are not tough enough, while more liberal Tories are concerned they could see the UK break international law if they are amended down the line. Watch: Why Prince Harry has to pay $60,000 to a newspaper publisher × Also read: Far-right Polish lawmaker uses fire extinguisher to put out Hanukkah candles 'We will not be supporting it' Just a few minutes before the vote, MP Mark Francois told reporters that the "five families" of right-wing Tory factions had met and decided not to support the bill. Francois, who is the chairman of the European Research Group of Tory MPs who advocated a "hard" Brexit, said: "We have decided collectively that we cannot support the bill tonight because of its many omissions... We will not be supporting it." "The prime minister has been telling colleagues today he is prepared to entertain tightening the bill. With that aim, at the committee stage we will aim to table amendments which would, we hope, if accepted, materially improve the bill and remove some of its weaknesses," Francois added. (With inputs from agencies)

Temporary relief for Rishi Sunak as lawmakers vote in favour of govt's Rwanda migrant plan

United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday (Dec 12) issued a&nbsp;warning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as he said that Israel is "starting to lose the support" of the international community because of the Gaza bombing, which has killed thousands of Palestinians.&nbsp;

"They're starting to lose that support," said Biden, further adding that Netanyahu needs to change his hardline government. With Biden's warning, the pressure on Netanyahu has increased. It intensified further after the UN General Assembly demanded an immediate ceasefire.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-arrives-at-white-house-for-aid-talks-with-joe-biden-669060">Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200m emergency aid drawdown</a>&nbsp;

The war, which is now in its third month, started after the Palestinian militant group Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, killing around 1,200 people and taking over 200 people as hostages back to Gaza, Israeli officials have said. Under a one-week truce deal, 105 hostages were released from Gaza in exchange for 240 Palestinians jailed by Israel.&nbsp;

In response to the October 7 attack, Israel launched a massive ground and air campaign, which has killed more than 18,400 people in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.&nbsp;

Biden also said that the Israeli government "doesn't want" a two-state solution. "Bibi's got a tough decision to make," Biden said, referring to Netanyahu and his hardline right-wing government.&nbsp;

"This is the most conservative government in Israel's history," he said, adding that the Israeli government "doesn't want a two-state solution."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/passport-less-flight-mystery-russian-man-arrives-in-us-without-ticket-or-visa-fbi-digs-into-unusual-case-669031">Russian man arrives in US without ticket or visa, FBI investigates bizarre incident</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Biden's remarks to donors to his re-election campaign in 2024 were his most critical of Netanyahu in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.&nbsp;

"Israel's security can rest on the United States, but right now it has more than the United States. It has the European Union, it has Europe, it has most of the world ... But they're starting to lose that support by indiscriminate bombing that takes place," Biden said.

Watch: Did Israel use white phosphorous in Gaza war?

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<h2>UN&nbsp;calls for&nbsp;humanitarian ceasefire&nbsp;</h2>

On the same day, the UN General Assembly overwhelmingly passed a resolution on Tuesday demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza.&nbsp;

The body, which includes all 193 UN member nations, voted 153 in favour of the resolution, exceeding the 140 or so countries that have routinely backed resolutions condemning Russia for its invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

Ten countries, including the United States and Israel, voted against it, while 23 abstained.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Palestinian UN&nbsp;envoy Riyad Mansour&nbsp;said the US&nbsp;could not continue "to ignore this massive power" referring to the global protests in support of Palestine.&nbsp;He described the vote as a culmination of public sentiment.&nbsp;

"It is our collective duty to continue on this path until we see an end to this aggression against our people, to see this war stopping against our people. It is our duty to save lives," he told reporters.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday (Dec 12) issued a warning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as he said that Israel is "starting to lose the support" of the international community because of the Gaza bombing, which has killed thousands of Palestinians.

United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday (Dec 12) issued a warning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as he said that Israel is "starting to lose the support" of the international community because of the Gaza bombing, which has killed thousands of Palestinians. "They're starting to lose that support," said Biden, further adding that Netanyahu needs to change his hardline government. With Biden's warning, the pressure on Netanyahu has increased. It intensified further after the UN General Assembly demanded an immediate ceasefire. Also read: Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200m emergency aid drawdown The war, which is now in its third month, started after the Palestinian militant group Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, killing around 1,200 people and taking over 200 people as hostages back to Gaza, Israeli officials have said. Under a one-week truce deal, 105 hostages were released from Gaza in exchange for 240 Palestinians jailed by Israel. In response to the October 7 attack, Israel launched a massive ground and air campaign, which has killed more than 18,400 people in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Biden also said that the Israeli government "doesn't want" a two-state solution. "Bibi's got a tough decision to make," Biden said, referring to Netanyahu and his hardline right-wing government. "This is the most conservative government in Israel's history," he said, adding that the Israeli government "doesn't want a two-state solution." Also read: Russian man arrives in US without ticket or visa, FBI investigates bizarre incident Biden's remarks to donors to his re-election campaign in 2024 were his most critical of Netanyahu in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. "Israel's security can rest on the United States, but right now it has more than the United States. It has the European Union, it has Europe, it has most of the world ... But they're starting to lose that support by indiscriminate bombing that takes place," Biden said. Watch: Did Israel use white phosphorous in Gaza war? × UN calls for humanitarian ceasefire On the same day, the UN General Assembly overwhelmingly passed a resolution on Tuesday demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. The body, which includes all 193 UN member nations, voted 153 in favour of the resolution, exceeding the 140 or so countries that have routinely backed resolutions condemning Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. Ten countries, including the United States and Israel, voted against it, while 23 abstained. Palestinian UN envoy Riyad Mansour said the US could not continue "to ignore this massive power" referring to the global protests in support of Palestine. He described the vote as a culmination of public sentiment. "It is our collective duty to continue on this path until we see an end to this aggression against our people, to see this war stopping against our people. It is our duty to save lives," he told reporters. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden warns Benjamin Netanyahu over Gaza bombing, UN demands Gaza ceasefire

The government of Canada, in its official response to a Hinduphobia petition before the House of Commons, said it “rejects all forms of hate and discrimination and believes all Canadians must stand up against it where and whenever it is encountered.”

However, the petitioners were left disappointed by the response of the government, which was issued by its Minister of Diversity and Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities Kamal Khera. The response was signed by Khera's Parliamentary Secretary Sameer Zuberi.&nbsp;

<h2>Canadian government's response is frustrating: Petitioner</h2>

Speaking about the response of the government, the person who moved the petition Brampton-based Vijay Jain said, "The response from the Government is very frustrating.”&nbsp;

He emphasised that the government's response although met the request in the petition for recognising Hinduphobia as a term in the Human Rights Code's glossary of terms describing anti-Hindu prejudice and discrimination for defining Hinduphobia as denial, prejudice, vilification or negation against Hindus, Hinduism, or Hinduness and for raising awareness and addressing systemic and institutional Hinduphobia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rejects-secret-memo-report-over-crackdown-against-khalistani-terrorists-668308">India rejects 'secret memo' report over 'crackdown' against Khalistani terrorists</a>

He said that although Canada's human rights code was “prescriptive” when it came to Islamophobia and anti-Semitism, similar steps have not been applied against increasing Hinduphobia. “This itself shows systemic discrimination against Hindus in Canada,” Jain said.&nbsp;

Jain said that he and other community groups had called for a meeting with Khera but did not get any appointment as of yet.

The government, in its response, thanked the petitioner “for expressing their concerns regarding the growing negative stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination of Hindus in Canada.”

The petition had collected 25,794 signatures as against the 500 required to elicit a formal response from the government. Conservative Party MP Melissa Lantsman, while presenting the petition in the House of Commons on November 3, said, “Canadian Hindus are facing growing negative stereotypes, prejudice, discrimination, at work, in schools and in their communities while traditions and cultures are misrepresented and misunderstood.”

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | Canada: 3 theatres playing Hindi movies attacked

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The petition was backed by a total of 81 community organisations, which include major temples. The petition attracted attention after a video was released by secessionist group Sikhs for Justice or SFJ in September which targeted Canadian Hindus of Indian origin. SFJ's&nbsp;Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, in the viral video, said, “Indo-Hindus leave Canada, go to India.”&nbsp;

“You not only support India but you are also supporting the suppression of speech and expression of pro-Khalistan Sikhs,” Pannun said, while adding that they were “also promoting violence by celebrating” Nijjar’s “assassination.” He was speaking about the plot to kill SFJ's leader and terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Canada's government, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, has accused India of plotting against Nijjar.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The government of Canada, in its official response to a Hinduphobia petition before the House of Commons, said it “rejects all forms of hate and discrimination and believes all Canadians must stand up against it where and whenever it is encountered.

The government of Canada, in its official response to a Hinduphobia petition before the House of Commons, said it “rejects all forms of hate and discrimination and believes all Canadians must stand up against it where and whenever it is encountered.” However, the petitioners were left disappointed by the response of the government, which was issued by its Minister of Diversity and Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities Kamal Khera. The response was signed by Khera's Parliamentary Secretary Sameer Zuberi. Canadian government's response is frustrating: Petitioner Speaking about the response of the government, the person who moved the petition Brampton-based Vijay Jain said, "The response from the Government is very frustrating.” He emphasised that the government's response although met the request in the petition for recognising Hinduphobia as a term in the Human Rights Code's glossary of terms describing anti-Hindu prejudice and discrimination for defining Hinduphobia as denial, prejudice, vilification or negation against Hindus, Hinduism, or Hinduness and for raising awareness and addressing systemic and institutional Hinduphobia. Also read: India rejects 'secret memo' report over 'crackdown' against Khalistani terrorists He said that although Canada's human rights code was “prescriptive” when it came to Islamophobia and anti-Semitism, similar steps have not been applied against increasing Hinduphobia. “This itself shows systemic discrimination against Hindus in Canada,” Jain said. Jain said that he and other community groups had called for a meeting with Khera but did not get any appointment as of yet. The government, in its response, thanked the petitioner “for expressing their concerns regarding the growing negative stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination of Hindus in Canada.” The petition had collected 25,794 signatures as against the 500 required to elicit a formal response from the government. Conservative Party MP Melissa Lantsman, while presenting the petition in the House of Commons on November 3, said, “Canadian Hindus are facing growing negative stereotypes, prejudice, discrimination, at work, in schools and in their communities while traditions and cultures are misrepresented and misunderstood.” Watch: Gravitas | Canada: 3 theatres playing Hindi movies attacked The petition was backed by a total of 81 community organisations, which include major temples. The petition attracted attention after a video was released by secessionist group Sikhs for Justice or SFJ in September which targeted Canadian Hindus of Indian origin. SFJ's Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, in the viral video, said, “Indo-Hindus leave Canada, go to India.” “You not only support India but you are also supporting the suppression of speech and expression of pro-Khalistan Sikhs,” Pannun said, while adding that they were “also promoting violence by celebrating” Nijjar’s “assassination.” He was speaking about the plot to kill SFJ's leader and terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Canada's government, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, has accused India of plotting against Nijjar. (With inputs from agencies)

Trudeau's Canada sees Hinduphobia petition amid row with India over Nijjar's killing

A Thai Member of Parliament was sentenced for six years in jail, before she was released on a USD 14,000 bail, under the country's harsh lese-majeste laws which punish people heavily for what is perceived as criticism of the Thai monarchy. Rukchanok "Ice" Srinork (28) has pleaded not guilty to posting tweets which were perceived to be critical of the monarchy. When she was granted bail, she was warned that she should not repeat the offence.

The Move Forward party, which Ice represents, registered victory in this year's election. The party has urged reforms of the harsh lese-majeste laws. Despite the party's victory, it could not form the government as the unelected senate used Move Forward's criticism of lese-majeste laws as an excuse to block the bid.

Watch | China-Vietnam to arrive on mutually acceptable solutions on south china sea disputes

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Mass protests erupted against the lese-majeste laws in the year 2020. The protests had lasted several months. Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, an activist group, has been quoted in media reports as saying that since 2020, about 260 charges have been filed under these laws. About 2000 people have faced prosecution for getting involved in protests.

BBC reported that earlier this week, a 26-year-old man was sent to prison after he shouted at a royal motorcade. The man has reportedly been released on bail.

<h2>Accusation&nbsp;of&nbsp;'great malice'</h2>

Rukchanok "Ice" Srinork is out on bail but she plans to appeal the sentence handed to her.

Reuters has reported that one of posts she made accused the government of using Covid vaccination to boost monarchy's image. The court has deemed this defamation. The court has accused that she showed "great malice" towards the king through a separate post.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beaten-with-electric-cables-thai-hostages-on-hamas-harsher-treatment-for-jewish-captives-664653">Israel-Hamas war: Hugs, tears, joyous reunions as Thai hostages return to Bangkok</a>

Before joining the politics, Rukchanok was an activist who took part in 2020 protests. The protesters had demanded that the country be made more democratic and the laws dealing with the extremely powerful royal family be reformed.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-freed-thai-hostage-recalls-experience-in-hamas-captivity-says-israelis-were-beaten-664645">Israel-Hamas war: Freed Thai hostage recalls experience in Hamas captivity, says Israelis were beaten</a>

She joined the Move Forward party and defeated candidate from the opposition Pheu Thai party to get elected to the parliament. She was widely regarded as "giant killer' for her performance in the polls.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Thai Member of Parliament was sentenced for six years in jail, before she was released on a USD 14,000 bail, under the country's harsh lese-majeste laws which punish people heavily for what is perceived as criticism of the Thai monarchy.

A Thai Member of Parliament was sentenced for six years in jail, before she was released on a USD 14,000 bail, under the country's harsh lese-majeste laws which punish people heavily for what is perceived as criticism of the Thai monarchy. Rukchanok "Ice" Srinork (28) has pleaded not guilty to posting tweets which were perceived to be critical of the monarchy. When she was granted bail, she was warned that she should not repeat the offence. The Move Forward party, which Ice represents, registered victory in this year's election. The party has urged reforms of the harsh lese-majeste laws. Despite the party's victory, it could not form the government as the unelected senate used Move Forward's criticism of lese-majeste laws as an excuse to block the bid. Watch | China-Vietnam to arrive on mutually acceptable solutions on south china sea disputes × Mass protests erupted against the lese-majeste laws in the year 2020. The protests had lasted several months. Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, an activist group, has been quoted in media reports as saying that since 2020, about 260 charges have been filed under these laws. About 2000 people have faced prosecution for getting involved in protests. BBC reported that earlier this week, a 26-year-old man was sent to prison after he shouted at a royal motorcade. The man has reportedly been released on bail. Accusation of 'great malice' Rukchanok "Ice" Srinork is out on bail but she plans to appeal the sentence handed to her. Reuters has reported that one of posts she made accused the government of using Covid vaccination to boost monarchy's image. The court has deemed this defamation. The court has accused that she showed "great malice" towards the king through a separate post. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Hugs, tears, joyous reunions as Thai hostages return to Bangkok Before joining the politics, Rukchanok was an activist who took part in 2020 protests. The protesters had demanded that the country be made more democratic and the laws dealing with the extremely powerful royal family be reformed. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Freed Thai hostage recalls experience in Hamas captivity, says Israelis were beaten She joined the Move Forward party and defeated candidate from the opposition Pheu Thai party to get elected to the parliament. She was widely regarded as "giant killer' for her performance in the polls. (With inputs from agencies)

Thai woman MP handed six-year jail sentence for 'insult' to monarchy 

Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan and former Foreign minister Mahmood Qureshi have once again been indicted in the Cipher case. The two leaders have pleaded not guilty to their involvement in any offense.

Pakistan: Imran Khan and Mahmood Qureshi indicted again in Cipher case

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, in a recent interview, has claimed that the allegations he levelled against India over its involvement in the killing of pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar were intended to "put a chill" on New Delhi amid strained diplomatic ties between the two countries.

While speaking to the Canadian Press in a year-end interview, Trudeau said that the statement he made on September&nbsp;18 in the House of Commons was meant to place an extra 'level of deterrence' for India to refrain from carrying out such acts in the future.

He further said that he wanted the Canadians to know that the government was on top of the situation and proactively taking measures.

"Too many Canadians were worried that they were vulnerable," Trudeau said in the interview, adding that the Sikh community in British Columbia had been raising concerns since shortly after Nijjar was killed.

"We felt that all the quiet diplomacy and all the measures that we put in -- and ensured that our security services put in to keep people safe in the community, needed a further level of deterrence, perhaps of saying publicly and loudly that we know, or we have credible reasons to believe, that the Indian government was behind this," he said.

"And therefore put a chill on them continuing or considering doing anything like this," he added.

He also went on to claim that the Indian government chose to attack and undermine them with misinformation after he had made the allegations public and accused New Delhi of launching an information war.

"They chose to attack us and undermine us with a scale of misinformation and disinformation in their media that was comical," he said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fbi-aggressively-investigating-attack-on-indian-consulate-in-san-francisco-director-wray-tells-nia-668995">FBI 'aggressively investigating' attack on Indian Consulate in San Francisco: Director Wray</a>

"(It) would have been more comical had it not had real implications for people's lives and relations between our two countries that are so deep in terms of people-to-people ties, and people depending on the flow of connections between us," he added.

<h2>'Difficult conversations'</h2>

Trudeau also stated that he raised the issue of Nijjar's killing with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi during his bilateral talks in September at the time of G20 in New Delhi and was hoping for the conversation to be constructive.

However, on being asked if the discussion with Modi on the issue was helpful, the Canadian Prime Minister replied with a "No".

"We knew it would be difficult conversation, but we also knew that this was an important moment for India to be demonstrating its leadership on the world stage with the G20," Trudeau said.

"And we felt that we could use that as a constructive opportunity to work together."

India's Ministry of External Affairs, which has recently constituted a high-level inquiry committee to probe the alleged murder plot against Sikh separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, maintains that Canada had given no evidence about its allegations and so the question of equitable treatment for the two countries does not arise.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, in a recent interview, has claimed that the allegations he levelled against India over its involvement in the killing of pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar were intended to "put a chill" on New Delhi amid strained diplomatic ties between the two countries.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, in a recent interview, has claimed that the allegations he levelled against India over its involvement in the killing of pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar were intended to "put a chill" on New Delhi amid strained diplomatic ties between the two countries. While speaking to the Canadian Press in a year-end interview, Trudeau said that the statement he made on September 18 in the House of Commons was meant to place an extra 'level of deterrence' for India to refrain from carrying out such acts in the future. He further said that he wanted the Canadians to know that the government was on top of the situation and proactively taking measures. "Too many Canadians were worried that they were vulnerable," Trudeau said in the interview, adding that the Sikh community in British Columbia had been raising concerns since shortly after Nijjar was killed. "We felt that all the quiet diplomacy and all the measures that we put in -- and ensured that our security services put in to keep people safe in the community, needed a further level of deterrence, perhaps of saying publicly and loudly that we know, or we have credible reasons to believe, that the Indian government was behind this," he said. "And therefore put a chill on them continuing or considering doing anything like this," he added. He also went on to claim that the Indian government chose to attack and undermine them with misinformation after he had made the allegations public and accused New Delhi of launching an information war. "They chose to attack us and undermine us with a scale of misinformation and disinformation in their media that was comical," he said. Also read: FBI 'aggressively investigating' attack on Indian Consulate in San Francisco: Director Wray "(It) would have been more comical had it not had real implications for people's lives and relations between our two countries that are so deep in terms of people-to-people ties, and people depending on the flow of connections between us," he added. 'Difficult conversations' Trudeau also stated that he raised the issue of Nijjar's killing with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi during his bilateral talks in September at the time of G20 in New Delhi and was hoping for the conversation to be constructive. However, on being asked if the discussion with Modi on the issue was helpful, the Canadian Prime Minister replied with a "No". "We knew it would be difficult conversation, but we also knew that this was an important moment for India to be demonstrating its leadership on the world stage with the G20," Trudeau said. "And we felt that we could use that as a constructive opportunity to work together." India's Ministry of External Affairs, which has recently constituted a high-level inquiry committee to probe the alleged murder plot against Sikh separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, maintains that Canada had given no evidence about its allegations and so the question of equitable treatment for the two countries does not arise. (With inputs from agencies)

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau claims he made allegations over Nijjar killing public to 'put a chill' on India

Christian Lanng, the CEO of San Francisco-based tech company Tradeshift, is facing shocking accusations in a lawsuit filed by a former employee, referred to as Jane Doe. The suit alleges Lanng coerced her into signing a sex slavery contract and subjected her to years of sexual abuse.

Doe claims Lanng forced her to sign a nine-page contract just months after hiring her as his executive assistant.

The contract allegedly mandated her constant sexual availability, with explicit instructions on her conduct and appearance. It specified that she must kneel and inquire about Lanng's needs upon their private meetings.

<h2>Submission and punishment</h2>

The contract required complete submission to Lanng in all aspects, outlining no boundaries for refusal. The assistant was obligated to accept any punishment without showing anger, frustration, or resistance.

Additionally, she was contractually obliged to maintain a specific weight range, adding an unsettling dimension to the alleged exploitation.

“The slave agrees to submit completely to the master in all ways. There are no boundaries of place, time, or situation in which the slave may willfully refuse to obey the directive of the master without risking punishment,” the contract read, according to the lawsuit.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-who-is-harvey-weinstein-former-oscar-winning-film-producer-who-gets-16-years-jail-in-la-rape-case-565384">Also read |&nbsp;Who is Harvey Weinstein? Ex-producer who triggered the #MeToo movement gets 16 years in jail in LA rape case</a>

Doe asserted&nbsp;that she signed the contract out of fear of losing her job, stating&nbsp;her love for the role, the significant work she was doing, and her reluctance to jeopardise her opportunity at Tradeshift.

Lanng, terminated earlier in the year for "gross misconduct on multiple grounds" following allegations of sexual assault and harassment, vehemently denies the accusations.

He asserts that the relationship with his assistant was consensual, rejecting the claims of abuse as "shocking and vile."

“The claims in this lawsuit are defamatory and not reflective of my past relationship with the plaintiff. The shocking and vile claims in the lawsuit are categorically false, and I reject allegations that I subjected someone to any form of abuse during my tenure as CEO or at any other time of my life,” he said, according to a statement obtained by the Post.

Also watch |&nbsp;Over 100 McDonald's workers report sexual harassment at workplace

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/over-100-mcdonalds-workers-report-sexual-harassment-at-workplace-617146/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The CEO acknowledged&nbsp;an error in judgment for hiring someone with whom he had a romantic relationship but states that it did not violate company policies.

He categorically denied any form of abuse during his tenure as CEO and vows not to repeat such a mistake in the future.

(With inputs from agencies)

Christian Lanng, the CEO of San Francisco-based tech company Tradeshift, is facing shocking accusations in a lawsuit filed by a former employee, referred to as Jane Doe.

Christian Lanng, the CEO of San Francisco-based tech company Tradeshift, is facing shocking accusations in a lawsuit filed by a former employee, referred to as Jane Doe. The suit alleges Lanng coerced her into signing a sex slavery contract and subjected her to years of sexual abuse. Doe claims Lanng forced her to sign a nine-page contract just months after hiring her as his executive assistant. The contract allegedly mandated her constant sexual availability, with explicit instructions on her conduct and appearance. It specified that she must kneel and inquire about Lanng's needs upon their private meetings. Submission and punishment The contract required complete submission to Lanng in all aspects, outlining no boundaries for refusal. The assistant was obligated to accept any punishment without showing anger, frustration, or resistance. Additionally, she was contractually obliged to maintain a specific weight range, adding an unsettling dimension to the alleged exploitation. “The slave agrees to submit completely to the master in all ways. There are no boundaries of place, time, or situation in which the slave may willfully refuse to obey the directive of the master without risking punishment,” the contract read, according to the lawsuit. Also read | Who is Harvey Weinstein? Ex-producer who triggered the #MeToo movement gets 16 years in jail in LA rape case Doe asserted that she signed the contract out of fear of losing her job, stating her love for the role, the significant work she was doing, and her reluctance to jeopardise her opportunity at Tradeshift. Lanng, terminated earlier in the year for "gross misconduct on multiple grounds" following allegations of sexual assault and harassment, vehemently denies the accusations. He asserts that the relationship with his assistant was consensual, rejecting the claims of abuse as "shocking and vile." “The claims in this lawsuit are defamatory and not reflective of my past relationship with the plaintiff. The shocking and vile claims in the lawsuit are categorically false, and I reject allegations that I subjected someone to any form of abuse during my tenure as CEO or at any other time of my life,” he said, according to a statement obtained by the Post. Also watch | Over 100 McDonald's workers report sexual harassment at workplace The CEO acknowledged an error in judgment for hiring someone with whom he had a romantic relationship but states that it did not violate company policies. He categorically denied any form of abuse during his tenure as CEO and vows not to repeat such a mistake in the future. (With inputs from agencies)

'Body belongs to master': Former assistant accuses tech CEO of turning her into 'sex slave'

US House of Representatives is expected to vote shortly for its impeachment inquiry against the sitting president Joe Biden. The voting is expected to take place behind closed doors.

US House of Representatives to vote on Biden impeachment inquiry

Political uncertainty overshadows Bangladesh polls. Banglades PM Sheikh Hasina has hinted that her party, the Awami League, may not share any seat with Jatiya Party.

Bangladesh: Awami League and Jatiya party hold three round of talks on seat sharing

Days after taking oath, Argentina's President has taken his very first steps in implementing his short therapy programme. President Milei devalues Peso by 54%.

Argentina's government devalues Peso by 54%

China's President Xi Jinping will meet Vietnamese leaders on Wednesday (Dec 13)&nbsp;on the second day of a state visit to Hanoi, during which dozens of deals have been announced, including on diplomatic ties, railways and telecommunications.

His first trip to Vietnam in six years came after the visit of US President Joe Biden in September, in a sign of the increasing importance of the Southeast Asian manufacturing hub amid trade tensions between the two global powers.

Watch:&nbsp;Did China try to steal the CH-47F Chinook Helicopter from Taiwan?

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On Wednesday, Xi will pay tribute to the mausoleum of the founding leader of Communist Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh. He will then meet the chairman of Vietnam's parliament, Vuong Dinh Hue, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and President Vo Van Thuong, according to a schedule from Vietnam's foreign ministry.

During the day, a&nbsp;China-Vietnam joint statement on diplomatic relations is expected to be formally signed after its text was shown to reporters on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kashmir-issue-after-pakistan-china-weighs-in-on-indian-supreme-courts-ruling-on-article-370-668910">Also read:&nbsp;Kashmir issue: After Pakistan, China weighs in on Indian Supreme Court’s ruling on Article 370</a>

Xi will meet students before departing in the afternoon from the Vietnamese capital, whose central roads had been festooned with&nbsp;China's and Vietnam's red flags for his visit.

(With inputs from agencies)

China's President Xi Jinping will meet Vietnamese leaders on Wednesday (Dec 13) on the second day of a state visit to Hanoi, during which dozens of deals have been announced, including on diplomatic ties, railways and telecommunications.

China's President Xi Jinping will meet Vietnamese leaders on Wednesday (Dec 13) on the second day of a state visit to Hanoi, during which dozens of deals have been announced, including on diplomatic ties, railways and telecommunications. His first trip to Vietnam in six years came after the visit of US President Joe Biden in September, in a sign of the increasing importance of the Southeast Asian manufacturing hub amid trade tensions between the two global powers. Watch: Did China try to steal the CH-47F Chinook Helicopter from Taiwan? × On Wednesday, Xi will pay tribute to the mausoleum of the founding leader of Communist Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh. He will then meet the chairman of Vietnam's parliament, Vuong Dinh Hue, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and President Vo Van Thuong, according to a schedule from Vietnam's foreign ministry. During the day, a China-Vietnam joint statement on diplomatic relations is expected to be formally signed after its text was shown to reporters on Tuesday. Also read: Kashmir issue: After Pakistan, China weighs in on Indian Supreme Court’s ruling on Article 370 Xi will meet students before departing in the afternoon from the Vietnamese capital, whose central roads had been festooned with China's and Vietnam's red flags for his visit. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese leader Xi Jinping to meet Vietnam leaders on second day of state visit to Hanoi

In the world of fine wine none can compare the 1945 Romanée-Conti. The 1945 conti not only exudes luxury but also the heritage it holds. 1945 Romanée-Conti becomes the most expensive wine ever sold.

1945 Romanée-Conti becomes the most expensive wine ever sold

India's parliament witnessed absolute chaotic scenes after the major security breach. The unfortunate incident brings back haunted memories from 22 years ago. What happened on dec 13, 2001?

2001 Indian Parliament attack: 22 years since the attack, a look back on the day

United States President Joe Biden reportedly said that he had signed a $200 million emergency aid drawdown as he met visiting Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 12). Biden also said it would be a "Christmas gift" to Russia's Vladimir Putin if Congress failed to pass fresh military aid for Kyiv.&nbsp;Biden added that he "will not walk away from Ukraine".

While speaking in the Oval Office at the White House, Biden said to Zelensky that "we are going to stand at your side" despite the fact that Republicans have blocked a new $60 billion package of assistance for war-torn Ukraine.&nbsp;The US president said he has just signed "another $200 million drawdown from the Department of Defense for Ukraine”.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/passport-less-flight-mystery-russian-man-arrives-in-us-without-ticket-or-visa-fbi-digs-into-unusual-case-669031">Russian man arrives in US without ticket or visa, FBI investigates bizarre incident</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Zelensky told Biden that his country could still win the war. He said that Ukraine's troops "prove every day that Ukraine can win".&nbsp;Zelensky arrived at the White House for talks with Biden about continued US military aid amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Earlier, he met with congressional leaders.&nbsp;

Zelensky said that he was waiting for results, but also admitted that he had received "positive" signals from Congress on his military aid request.&nbsp;

"I got the signals," Zelensky told reporters at the White House following his meetings with members of Congress and President Joe Biden. He further noted, "They were more than positive. But we know that we have to separate words and particular results. Therefore we will count on particular results."&nbsp;

However, after the&nbsp;Ukrainian president addressed members of the Senate in a closed 90-minute meeting,&nbsp;key Republicans repeated their demands for a&nbsp;crackdown on immigration that they have&nbsp;sought between the US and Mexico border as a part of Biden's bill which would provide funding for both Ukraine and Israel.&nbsp;

After Zelensky's meeting,&nbsp;South Carolina Senator&nbsp;Lindsey Graham told reporters that he had told the Ukrainian president that their problem was "nothing to do with you". He added, "I said, 'You've done everything anybody could ask of you. This is not your problem here'".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nikki-haleys-prez-campaign-may-get-support-from-new-hampshir-governor-sununu-669004">Nikki Haley's prez campaign may get support from New Hampshire Governor Sununu</a>&nbsp; 
 
He also went on to blame the White House for failing to tackle the immigration issue on the country's&nbsp;southern border and called on Biden to be&nbsp;personally involved in the negotiations.

<h2>What is a drawdown?&nbsp;</h2>

According to the US State Department website, a drawdown is the "use of the Presidential Drawdown Authority to direct a drawdown to provide military assistance under section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act (FAA) is a valuable tool of US foreign policy in crisis situations".&nbsp;

It added that a drawdown "allows for the speedy delivery of defense articles and services from Department of Defense stocks to foreign countries and international organizations to respond to unforeseen emergencies". The US State Department website further added that such assistance can begin arriving within days – or even hours – of approval.&nbsp;

Watch: What is the cost of the Ukraine war?&nbsp;

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<h2>Russia-Ukraine war latest&nbsp;</h2>

Citing a declassified US intelligence assessment shared with Congress, a congressional source told CNN Tuesday that some 315,000 Russian troops have been killed or wounded in Ukraine since the war began last year in February. The figure is nearly 90 per cent of its pre-war force.

The source further noted that the Russian military has also lost some 2,200 of the 3,500 tanks it had before the start of the conflict.&nbsp;

The most recent fatality estimate is a significant difference from the data released in July 2022, when CIA Director Bill Burns stated that US intelligence projected Russian casualties to be "in the vicinity of 15,000 killed and possibly three times that wounded".&nbsp;

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;

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden reportedly said that he had signed a $200 million emergency aid drawdown as he met visiting Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 12).

United States President Joe Biden reportedly said that he had signed a $200 million emergency aid drawdown as he met visiting Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 12). Biden also said it would be a "Christmas gift" to Russia's Vladimir Putin if Congress failed to pass fresh military aid for Kyiv. Biden added that he "will not walk away from Ukraine". While speaking in the Oval Office at the White House, Biden said to Zelensky that "we are going to stand at your side" despite the fact that Republicans have blocked a new $60 billion package of assistance for war-torn Ukraine. The US president said he has just signed "another $200 million drawdown from the Department of Defense for Ukraine”. Also read: Russian man arrives in US without ticket or visa, FBI investigates bizarre incident Meanwhile, Zelensky told Biden that his country could still win the war. He said that Ukraine's troops "prove every day that Ukraine can win". Zelensky arrived at the White House for talks with Biden about continued US military aid amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Earlier, he met with congressional leaders. Zelensky said that he was waiting for results, but also admitted that he had received "positive" signals from Congress on his military aid request. "I got the signals," Zelensky told reporters at the White House following his meetings with members of Congress and President Joe Biden. He further noted, "They were more than positive. But we know that we have to separate words and particular results. Therefore we will count on particular results." However, after the Ukrainian president addressed members of the Senate in a closed 90-minute meeting, key Republicans repeated their demands for a crackdown on immigration that they have sought between the US and Mexico border as a part of Biden's bill which would provide funding for both Ukraine and Israel. After Zelensky's meeting, South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham told reporters that he had told the Ukrainian president that their problem was "nothing to do with you". He added, "I said, 'You've done everything anybody could ask of you. This is not your problem here'". Also read: Nikki Haley's prez campaign may get support from New Hampshire Governor Sununu He also went on to blame the White House for failing to tackle the immigration issue on the country's southern border and called on Biden to be personally involved in the negotiations. What is a drawdown? According to the US State Department website, a drawdown is the "use of the Presidential Drawdown Authority to direct a drawdown to provide military assistance under section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act (FAA) is a valuable tool of US foreign policy in crisis situations". It added that a drawdown "allows for the speedy delivery of defense articles and services from Department of Defense stocks to foreign countries and international organizations to respond to unforeseen emergencies". The US State Department website further added that such assistance can begin arriving within days – or even hours – of approval. Watch: What is the cost of the Ukraine war? × Russia-Ukraine war latest Citing a declassified US intelligence assessment shared with Congress, a congressional source told CNN Tuesday that some 315,000 Russian troops have been killed or wounded in Ukraine since the war began last year in February. The figure is nearly 90 per cent of its pre-war force. The source further noted that the Russian military has also lost some 2,200 of the 3,500 tanks it had before the start of the conflict. The most recent fatality estimate is a significant difference from the data released in July 2022, when CIA Director Bill Burns stated that US intelligence projected Russian casualties to be "in the vicinity of 15,000 killed and possibly three times that wounded". 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 (With inputs from agencies)

Biden meets Zelensky, says he has signed $200 million emergency aid drawdown

Days after the Israeli defence minister hinted that Israel could open a second war front in Lebanon, IDF escalates its strikes on the Lebanese border. Will Israel open a second front with Lebanon?

Violence escalates between Israel & Lebanon, plumes of smoke rise over border area

Israel trades fire with Lebanon’s Hezbollah

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived on Tuesday in US Congress to press increasingly reluctant Republicans to back his country's fight against Russian invasion with renewed US military aid but was unable to do so.

Zelensky in US | US President Joe Biden vows that he will not walk away from Ukraine

Far-right MP Grzegorz Braun used a fire extinguisher to put out the candles on a menorah at a Hanukah event hosted by the Polish parliament. In footage circulating on social media, Braun could be seen putting out the candles with a fire extinguisher and causing smoke or haze to fill the area.

Poland: Far-right MP extinguishes Hanukah candles in parliament

United Nations' climate body on Monday (Dec 11) released draft text of the deal which would be put up for passage at the ongoing COP28 Summit in Dubai in United Arab Emirates. The text advocates for reducing production as use of fossil fuels but stops short of using the wording 'phase out'.

COP28 Summit extended beyond schedule

The Israel Defense Forces announced Tuesday that it had recovered the bodies of a civilian and IDF Warrant Officer, who were taken hostage by Hamas on October 7.

Israel-Hamas war: IDF retrieves bodies of two hostages from Gaza

A suicide bomber detonated his explosive-laden vehicle at a police station's main gate in northwest Pakistan early Tuesday, killing at least 23 officers and wounding 32 others, and causing a part of the building to collapse upon impact, officials said, in one of the deadliest attacks in recent months.

Pakistan: Deadly multiple explosions hit police station

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's emergency bill, that aimed at reviving his plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda, narrowly avoided defeat in Parliament. After a day of last-minute negotiations and parliamentary drama, Sunak secured a victory with a vote of 313 to 269 in favour of the plan.

UK: Rishi Sunak secures a narrow victory amid party rebellion | World DNA | WION

Pope Francis on Wednesday (Dec 13) made a revelation during an interview about his final resting place stating that he has chosen to be buried in a basilica in Rome than being buried alongside his immediate predecessors in St Peter's Basilica.

"The place is already prepared. I want to be buried in Santa Maria Maggiore," the pontiff, who turns 87 this weekend, told Mexican broadcaster Televisa's N+ streaming service.

He also revealed his plans to visit Belgium in the year 2024 and also hoped to visit his native places Argentina and Polynesia.

The pontiff's decision on his tomb would make him the first pope to be buried outside of the Vatican in over a century.

Before Francis, Leo XIII eschewed a tomb in St Peter's whose remains lie in the basilica of St John the Lateran in Rome. He died in 1903.

Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the four papal basilicas in Rome and one with which Francis said he felt a "special connection".

Francis used to go there on weekends while visiting Rome before becoming pope. Since being elected in 2013, he prayed there before and after taking a trip and also after undergoing surgery.

As per the Vatican News official media outlet, seven popes have previously been laid to rest in the basilica.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-cop28-draft-calls-for-transitioning-away-from-fossil-fuels-but-not-phase-out-669108">COP28: Nations adopt first-ever deal to transition away from fossil fuels</a>

In the interview which was recorded on Tuesday (Dec 12), during which he appeared to be much better, he paid tribute to his predecessor Benedict XVI for having had "the courage" to step down when his health was failing him.

The German pontiff in 2013 became the first pope since the Middle Ages to resign.

<h2>Pope Francis calls off Dubai visit for COP28</h2>

Earlier, Francis had called off his visit to Dubai for the COP28 climate talks after developing flu-like symptoms.

The Vatican, in a statement, said that he was dealing with the effects of influenza and lung inflammation.

"Although the Holy Father's general clinical picture has improved with regard to his flu-like condition and inflammation of the respiratory tract, doctors have asked the Pope not to make the trip planned for the coming days to Dubai," Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said in a statement.&nbsp;

"Pope Francis accepted the doctors' request with great regret and the trip is therefore cancelled," Bruni said.&nbsp;

In recent years, Francis has suffered a series of health issues. Earlier this year, he was hospitalised for pneumonia, characterised by the Vatican as bronchitis requiring intravenous antibiotic treatment. The current health concerns come amidst unusually windy and chilly weather in Rome.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis on Wednesday (Dec 13) made a revelation during an interview about his final resting place stating that he has chosen to be buried in a basilica in Rome than being buried alongside his immediate predecessors in St Peter's Basilica.

Pope Francis on Wednesday (Dec 13) made a revelation during an interview about his final resting place stating that he has chosen to be buried in a basilica in Rome than being buried alongside his immediate predecessors in St Peter's Basilica. "The place is already prepared. I want to be buried in Santa Maria Maggiore," the pontiff, who turns 87 this weekend, told Mexican broadcaster Televisa's N+ streaming service. He also revealed his plans to visit Belgium in the year 2024 and also hoped to visit his native places Argentina and Polynesia. The pontiff's decision on his tomb would make him the first pope to be buried outside of the Vatican in over a century. Before Francis, Leo XIII eschewed a tomb in St Peter's whose remains lie in the basilica of St John the Lateran in Rome. He died in 1903. Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the four papal basilicas in Rome and one with which Francis said he felt a "special connection". Francis used to go there on weekends while visiting Rome before becoming pope. Since being elected in 2013, he prayed there before and after taking a trip and also after undergoing surgery. As per the Vatican News official media outlet, seven popes have previously been laid to rest in the basilica. Also read: COP28: Nations adopt first-ever deal to transition away from fossil fuels In the interview which was recorded on Tuesday (Dec 12), during which he appeared to be much better, he paid tribute to his predecessor Benedict XVI for having had "the courage" to step down when his health was failing him. The German pontiff in 2013 became the first pope since the Middle Ages to resign. Pope Francis calls off Dubai visit for COP28 Earlier, Francis had called off his visit to Dubai for the COP28 climate talks after developing flu-like symptoms. The Vatican, in a statement, said that he was dealing with the effects of influenza and lung inflammation. "Although the Holy Father's general clinical picture has improved with regard to his flu-like condition and inflammation of the respiratory tract, doctors have asked the Pope not to make the trip planned for the coming days to Dubai," Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said in a statement. "Pope Francis accepted the doctors' request with great regret and the trip is therefore cancelled," Bruni said. In recent years, Francis has suffered a series of health issues. Earlier this year, he was hospitalised for pneumonia, characterised by the Vatican as bronchitis requiring intravenous antibiotic treatment. The current health concerns come amidst unusually windy and chilly weather in Rome. (With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis chooses final resting place outside of Vatican

US President Joe Biden warned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Tuesday that Israel risked losing global support for its war against Hamas by "indiscriminate" bombing of Gaza.

Israel-Hamas war: Biden warns Israel is losing international support

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