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This week, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Putin has rarely left Russia since the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant against him. So, what explains his sudden visit to the Gulf? Is there a secret alliance being formed? Should the United States be worried? Listen in to Vikram Chandra.

Putin meets Saudi Crown Prince and UAE President: An anti-US alliance in the making?

Azerbaijan is poised to host next year's COP29 climate change summit after winning backing from other Eastern European nations on Saturday.

The decision, which resolves months of geopolitical deadlock over where the next annual UN&nbsp;climate summit will be held, quickly drew focus to Azerbaijan's oil production and its human rights record.

With the rotating presidency of the summit shifting to Eastern Europe next year, nations from the region agreed during the ongoing COP28 summit in Dubai to back Baku's bid, the co-chairs of the group of countries said in a letter the UN&nbsp;climate change body on Saturday, seen by Reuters.

"We're very grateful to all countries, in particular to the Eastern European group and the [COP28 summit] host United Arab Emirates for their support," Azerbaijan's Ecology Minister Mukhtar Babayev said in an address from the main stage at COP28 on Saturday.

Zhala Bayramova, daughter of anti-corruption researcher Gubad Ibadoghlu, who was jailed in Azerbaijan after criticizing the country's oil and gas industry, told Reuters she was appalled at the decision.

"He is risking his life for this work," Bayramova said. "This work is quite meaningless when you have COP29 hosted in Azerbaijan."

A spokesperson for Azerbaijan's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment about Ibadoghlu.

"Having COP29 gives legitimacy to the government," Bayramova added.

The decision on who would host COP29 had been held up after Russia vowed to veto any bid by a European Union country. The EU has imposed sanctions on Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine.

The bid by Azerbaijan, which is not an EU member, needs approval from the nearly 200 countries present at the COP28 talks. Delegates said they expected the vote to be a formality.

To win the bid, Azerbaijan reached an agreement with longtime adversary Armenia that assured it would not face the threat of an Armenian veto.

But Baku's relations with some Western countries have deteriorated since September, when Azerbaijan retook full control of the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh, prompting an exodus of the territory's ethnic Armenian population.

Holding the presidency of a UN&nbsp;climate summit gives a country huge influence on its agenda and outcomes.

The COP28 summit in the UAE has been the biggest yet, with more than 90,000 delegates registered.

While the decision on who will host the event is usually made years in advance to allow countries time to prepare, Aykhan Hajizada, a spokesperson at Azerbaijan's ministry of foreign affairs, told Reuters on Friday that Baku was well equipped to handle the event.

When Azerbaijan's bid was first reported on Thursday, some raised concerns about holding the global climate talks in another oil producing nation. Azerbaijan is an oil and gas producer and a member of OPEC+.

Richard Black of the energy think tank Ember wrote on social media site X: "The road from #COP28 will, it seems, lead to Baku, possibly the world's first 'oil capital' a thousand years ago, where Marco Polo documented oil being traded, and where tourists can still top up their health by getting into a bath of crude."

Watch:&nbsp;Armenia and Azerbaijan agree to exchange prisoners of war

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Hajizada said he understood those concerns, and noted Azerbaijan's plans to diversify its energy sources to include more wind and solar power.

The European Commission last year signed a memorandum of understanding with Azerbaijan to double imports of Azeri natural gas as part of its strategy to diversify away from Russia.

<h2>Legitimacy to the government</h2>

Ibadoghlu, a professor at the London School of Economics, was arrested on charges of dealing with counterfeit money and extremism when visiting family in Azerbaijan in July.

He had served from 2013-2019 as the civil society representative to the board of the Extractives Industry Transparency Initiative (EITI), an organization that advocates for open and accountable management of oil, gas and mineral resources.

The US&nbsp;State Department and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe earlier this year condemned Ibadoghlu's arrest and demanded his release. The EU in September adopted a joint motion to demand an investigation into the arrest.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armenia-azerbaijan-hold-talks-in-iran-as-russia-claims-main-issue-resolved-in-nagorno-karabakh-650517">Also read:&nbsp;Armenia, Azerbaijan hold talks in Iran as Russia claims main issue resolved in Nagorno-Karabakh</a>

"We can't let Azerbaijan use COP29 to distract from its abysmal record on freedom of speech and human rights," said Jason Bardwell, a spokesman for Publish What You Pay, the organization that created the EITI.

"As a major oil producer, Azerbaijan will need to listen to its critics," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Azerbaijan is poised to host next year's COP29 climate change summit after winning backing from other Eastern European nations on Saturday. The decision, which resolves months of geopolitical deadlock over where the next annual UN climate summit will be held, quickly drew focus to Azerbaijan's oil production and its human rights record.

Azerbaijan is poised to host next year's COP29 climate change summit after winning backing from other Eastern European nations on Saturday. The decision, which resolves months of geopolitical deadlock over where the next annual UN climate summit will be held, quickly drew focus to Azerbaijan's oil production and its human rights record. With the rotating presidency of the summit shifting to Eastern Europe next year, nations from the region agreed during the ongoing COP28 summit in Dubai to back Baku's bid, the co-chairs of the group of countries said in a letter the UN climate change body on Saturday, seen by Reuters. "We're very grateful to all countries, in particular to the Eastern European group and the [COP28 summit] host United Arab Emirates for their support," Azerbaijan's Ecology Minister Mukhtar Babayev said in an address from the main stage at COP28 on Saturday. Zhala Bayramova, daughter of anti-corruption researcher Gubad Ibadoghlu, who was jailed in Azerbaijan after criticizing the country's oil and gas industry, told Reuters she was appalled at the decision. "He is risking his life for this work," Bayramova said. "This work is quite meaningless when you have COP29 hosted in Azerbaijan." A spokesperson for Azerbaijan's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment about Ibadoghlu. "Having COP29 gives legitimacy to the government," Bayramova added. The decision on who would host COP29 had been held up after Russia vowed to veto any bid by a European Union country. The EU has imposed sanctions on Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine. The bid by Azerbaijan, which is not an EU member, needs approval from the nearly 200 countries present at the COP28 talks. Delegates said they expected the vote to be a formality. To win the bid, Azerbaijan reached an agreement with longtime adversary Armenia that assured it would not face the threat of an Armenian veto. But Baku's relations with some Western countries have deteriorated since September, when Azerbaijan retook full control of the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh, prompting an exodus of the territory's ethnic Armenian population. Holding the presidency of a UN climate summit gives a country huge influence on its agenda and outcomes. The COP28 summit in the UAE has been the biggest yet, with more than 90,000 delegates registered. While the decision on who will host the event is usually made years in advance to allow countries time to prepare, Aykhan Hajizada, a spokesperson at Azerbaijan's ministry of foreign affairs, told Reuters on Friday that Baku was well equipped to handle the event. When Azerbaijan's bid was first reported on Thursday, some raised concerns about holding the global climate talks in another oil producing nation. Azerbaijan is an oil and gas producer and a member of OPEC+. Richard Black of the energy think tank Ember wrote on social media site X: "The road from #COP28 will, it seems, lead to Baku, possibly the world's first 'oil capital' a thousand years ago, where Marco Polo documented oil being traded, and where tourists can still top up their health by getting into a bath of crude." Watch: Armenia and Azerbaijan agree to exchange prisoners of war × Hajizada said he understood those concerns, and noted Azerbaijan's plans to diversify its energy sources to include more wind and solar power. The European Commission last year signed a memorandum of understanding with Azerbaijan to double imports of Azeri natural gas as part of its strategy to diversify away from Russia. Legitimacy to the government Ibadoghlu, a professor at the London School of Economics, was arrested on charges of dealing with counterfeit money and extremism when visiting family in Azerbaijan in July. He had served from 2013-2019 as the civil society representative to the board of the Extractives Industry Transparency Initiative (EITI), an organization that advocates for open and accountable management of oil, gas and mineral resources. The US State Department and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe earlier this year condemned Ibadoghlu's arrest and demanded his release. The EU in September adopted a joint motion to demand an investigation into the arrest. Also read: Armenia, Azerbaijan hold talks in Iran as Russia claims main issue resolved in Nagorno-Karabakh "We can't let Azerbaijan use COP29 to distract from its abysmal record on freedom of speech and human rights," said Jason Bardwell, a spokesman for Publish What You Pay, the organization that created the EITI. "As a major oil producer, Azerbaijan will need to listen to its critics," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Azerbaijan all set to host COP29 climate summit next year after receiving regional backing

This week, The United States of America broke a grim record- it recorded the most number of mass shooting deaths in a year. What explains America's obsession with guns? Why does the number of guns in America outnumber the number of people living in the country? Why does a first-world country prioritize the Right to own firearms over the Right to Life? Listen in to Vikram Chandra.

Gun Epidemic: US records most number of mass shooting deaths

This week, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Putin has rarely left Russia since the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant against him. So, what explains his sudden visit to the Gulf? Is there a secret alliance being formed? Should the United States be worried? To understand this better watch Vikram Chandra's discussion with the former spokesperson of Vladimir Putin, Dr Sergey Lavrov.

Putin visits the Gulf: Is Russia formulating an anti-US alliance?

Tension is steadily rising between Venezuela and Guyana ever since the former has renewed its claim on Essequibo- an oil-rich region in Guyana. Maduro's government held a referendum in which 95% of the voters backed their country's claim over Essequibo. Guyana called the referendum a threat. This did not stop Maduro from asking his country's oil companies to start issuing licenses for oil extraction in the Guyanese territory. The U.S. has taken a side, and the International Court of Justice has given an order. Is an oil war brewing? Listen in to Vikram Chandra.

Essequibo: Is Venezuela's Maduro starting an oil war in South America?

WhatsApp on Friday (Dec 8), revealed the details of its latest feature: the ability for users to send voice messages that automatically disappear after being listened to.

WhatsApp rolls out `View Once` voice message feature

The renewed fighting between Israel and Hamas has entered the ninth day on Saturday (Dec 9) with the Israeli military carrying out deadly bombardments in the Gaza Strip. Meanwhile, the US State Department has approved the potential sale of tank cartridges and related equipment to Israel for an estimated $106.5 million, the Pentagon said on Saturday. Track all the latest updates from the Israel-Hamas war on WION's website and app. In a major development from COP28,&nbsp;a&nbsp;member of the Chinese delegation&nbsp;reasserted on the platform that Taiwan “was an inalienable part of China” after some of Taiwan's allies called on the UN to include Taiwan in the climate summit.

Click on the headlines to read in detail.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-hamas-calls-on-un-security-council-to-end-gazas-brutal-war-667761">Israel-Hamas war: Erdogan denounces UN Security Council as ‘Israel protection council’</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/09/398130-succession-2023-12-09t004113544.jpg?imwidth=3840" />Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called for the UN security council to be reformed, following the US vetoing a ceasefire proposal for Gaza despite the the 15-member council voting 13-1 for the resolution, Reuters reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unacceptable-china-lashes-out-at-nations-calling-for-taiwans-inclusion-in-cop28-667984">‘Unacceptable,’ China lashes out at nations calling for Taiwan’s inclusion in COP28</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/09/398234-untitled-design-3.jpg?imwidth=3840" />China on Saturday (Dec 9) went all guns blazing over calls to include Taiwan in the United Nations-backed Conference of the Parties (COP28) Summit being held in Dubai.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/is-india-banning-hamas-minister-lekhi-denies-signing-parliamentary-document-667947">Is India banning Hamas? Minister Meenakshi Lekhi denies signing parliamentary document</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/09/398216-untitled-design-2023-12-09t171919308.png?imwidth=3840" />India's Minister of State for External Affairs, Meenakshi Lekhi, denied signing a document that purportedly answered a parliamentary query underscoring if India had designated Palestinian group Hamas as a terrorist organisation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opec-head-told-members-to-block-any-deal-at-cop28-that-targets-fossil-fuels-report-667897">OPEC head told members to block any deal at COP28 that targets fossil fuels: Report</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/09/398193-untitled-design-7.png?imwidth=3840" />The Oil Producing and Exporting Countries (OPEC) Secretary-General Haitham Al Ghais in a letter&nbsp; addressed to the oil cartel's member nations has pleaded with them to&nbsp;reject proposals for any text under negotiation at the&nbsp;COP28 Climate Summit, reported news agency Reuters on&nbsp;Friday (Dec 8).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-putin-presidency-and-elections-the-ruling-russian-trio-of-convenience-668005">Explained | Putin, presidency and elections — a race of convenience for indisputable rule</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/09/398245-untitled-design-2023-12-09t211238158.png?imwidth=3840" />Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Dec 8) announced that he will be again running for president in the 2024 presidential election – a move which is most likely to keep him in power till at least 2030.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bharat-is-a-belief-an-attitude-says-indias-foreign-minister-jaishankar-667999">Watch: 'Bharat is a belief, an attitude', says India's Foreign Minister Jaishankar</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/09/398242-untitled-design-2023-12-09t202239779.png?imwidth=3840" />India's External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar described the ancient identity of Indian republic&nbsp;— Bharat&nbsp;— as "a belief and an attitude" which has an economic dimension and a political meaning.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-assams-cabinet-gives-a-go-ahead-for-census-of-native-muslims-667939">India: Assam's cabinet gives its nod for census of native Muslims</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/09/398211-untitled-design-2023-12-09t170610788.png?imwidth=3840" />The cabinet of the Indian state of Assam gave a go-ahead to the socio-economic survey of the indigenous Muslim population in the state.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2024-all-you-need-to-know-about-complete-squads-after-auctions-including-rcb-mi-667987">WPL 2024: All you need to know about complete squads after auctions including RCB, MI</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/09/398235-1-2023-12-09t193918290.png?imwidth=3840" />With the Women’s Premier League (WPL) auctions coming to an end the eyes are now on the on-field battle as five teams chase glory on the field. The auctions produced monumental landmarks for players like Kashvee Gautam and Annabel Sutherland as they were sold for price tags of $240, 000.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-on-john-malkovichs-70th-birthday-revisiting-being-john-malkovich-667997">On John Malkovich's 70th birthday, revisiting Being John Malkovich</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/09/398241-malkovich-banner.jpg?imwidth=3840" />John Malkovich, one of Hollywood's most underrated actors, turns 70. While Malkovich has graced the silver screen with numerous memorable performances throughout his illustrious career, one film stands out as a true masterpiece that encapsulates his brilliance as an actor —&nbsp;Being John Malkovich.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-love-story-star-ryan-oneal-dies-at-82-confirms-son-patrick-oneal-667839">Love Story star Ryan O'Neal dies at 82, confirms son Patrick O'Neal</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/09/398166-untitled-design-2023-12-09t113256695.jpg?imwidth=3840" />The golden age of Hollywood has lost one of its brightest stars as Ryan O'Neal, the charismatic leading man known for his role in the legendary tearjerker&nbsp;Love Story, has died at the age of 82.

The renewed fighting between Israel and Hamas has entered the ninth day on Saturday (Dec 9) with the Israeli military carrying out deadly bombardments in the Gaza Strip.

The renewed fighting between Israel and Hamas has entered the ninth day on Saturday (Dec 9) with the Israeli military carrying out deadly bombardments in the Gaza Strip. Meanwhile, the US State Department has approved the potential sale of tank cartridges and related equipment to Israel for an estimated $106.5 million, the Pentagon said on Saturday. Track all the latest updates from the Israel-Hamas war on WION's website and app. In a major development from COP28, a member of the Chinese delegation reasserted on the platform that Taiwan “was an inalienable part of China” after some of Taiwan's allies called on the UN to include Taiwan in the climate summit. Click on the headlines to read in detail. Israel-Hamas war: Erdogan denounces UN Security Council as ‘Israel protection council’ Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called for the UN security council to be reformed, following the US vetoing a ceasefire proposal for Gaza despite the the 15-member council voting 13-1 for the resolution, Reuters reported. ‘Unacceptable,’ China lashes out at nations calling for Taiwan’s inclusion in COP28 China on Saturday (Dec 9) went all guns blazing over calls to include Taiwan in the United Nations-backed Conference of the Parties (COP28) Summit being held in Dubai. Is India banning Hamas? Minister Meenakshi Lekhi denies signing parliamentary document India's Minister of State for External Affairs, Meenakshi Lekhi, denied signing a document that purportedly answered a parliamentary query underscoring if India had designated Palestinian group Hamas as a terrorist organisation. OPEC head told members to block any deal at COP28 that targets fossil fuels: Report The Oil Producing and Exporting Countries (OPEC) Secretary-General Haitham Al Ghais in a letter addressed to the oil cartel's member nations has pleaded with them to reject proposals for any text under negotiation at the COP28 Climate Summit, reported news agency Reuters on Friday (Dec 8). Explained | Putin, presidency and elections — a race of convenience for indisputable rule Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Dec 8) announced that he will be again running for president in the 2024 presidential election – a move which is most likely to keep him in power till at least 2030. Watch: 'Bharat is a belief, an attitude', says India's Foreign Minister Jaishankar India's External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar described the ancient identity of Indian republic — Bharat — as "a belief and an attitude" which has an economic dimension and a political meaning. India: Assam's cabinet gives its nod for census of native Muslims The cabinet of the Indian state of Assam gave a go-ahead to the socio-economic survey of the indigenous Muslim population in the state. WPL 2024: All you need to know about complete squads after auctions including RCB, MI With the Women’s Premier League (WPL) auctions coming to an end the eyes are now on the on-field battle as five teams chase glory on the field. The auctions produced monumental landmarks for players like Kashvee Gautam and Annabel Sutherland as they were sold for price tags of $240, 000. On John Malkovich's 70th birthday, revisiting Being John Malkovich John Malkovich, one of Hollywood's most underrated actors, turns 70. While Malkovich has graced the silver screen with numerous memorable performances throughout his illustrious career, one film stands out as a true masterpiece that encapsulates his brilliance as an actor — Being John Malkovich. Love Story star Ryan O'Neal dies at 82, confirms son Patrick O'Neal The golden age of Hollywood has lost one of its brightest stars as Ryan O'Neal, the charismatic leading man known for his role in the legendary tearjerker Love Story, has died at the age of 82.

Top 10 world news: Latest from Israel-Hamas war, China-Taiwan tussle breaks out in COP28, and more

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has dominated the Global Leader Approval ratings, topping at 76 per cent. The second-highest approval rating is held by Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador at 66 per cent, followed by Switzerland President Alain Berset at 58 per cent.

United States President Joe Biden on Friday (Dec 8) &nbsp;unveiled a $3 billion investment for a high-speed rail project to connect Las Vegas and Los Angeles. This rail project would reduce the trip (from LA to Las Vegas and Las Vegas to LA) time from seven hours to just three hours.

In other news from around the world, North Korea warned that it would carry more spy satellite launches soon to gather more information about the military activities of its enemies.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-dominates-global-leader-approval-ratings-tops-the-chart-with-impressive-76-percent-667794">Indian PM Modi dominates Global Leader Approval ratings, tops the chart with impressive 76 percent</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/08/18/373908-pm-modi.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to remain a global frontrunner in global leadership approval, boasting an impressive 76 per cent rating, as revealed by the latest survey conducted by Morning Consult.&nbsp;This commanding approval rating placed Prime Minister Modi ahead of other world leaders, who are trailing behind by a huge margin.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-unveils-3-billion-investment-for-la-las-vegas-high-speed-rail-project-667792">US President Biden unveils $3 billion investment for LA-Las Vegas high-speed rail project</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/09/398140-untitled-design.png?imwidth=3840" />

United States President Joe Biden on Friday (Dec 8) unveiled a $3 billion investment for a high-speed rail project to connect Las Vegas and Los Angeles.&nbsp;He pointed out that the new rail project will reduce the trip (from LA to Las Vegas and Las Vegas to LA) time from seven hours to just three hours.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-boasts-of-satellite-capability-warns-to-launch-more-soon-667790">North Korea boasts of satellite capability, warns to launch more soon</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/09/398139-succession-2023-12-09t074906804.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

North Korea has warned that it would carry more spy satellite launches in the coming months in order to gather more information about the military activities of its enemies, a commentary carried by state news agency KCNA said on Saturday (Dec 9).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-michigan-shool-shooter-sentenced-to-life-in-prison-without-parole-667787">Michigan school shooter sentenced to life in prison without parole​​​​​​​</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/09/398138-succession-2023-12-09t071020092.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

An American teenager, who shot dead four of his classmates in 2021 at a high school outside Detroit, was on Friday (Dec 8) sentenced to life imprisonment without parole.&nbsp;Ethan Crumbley had opened fire on Nov 30 2021 with a semi-automatic handgun that his father bought as a Christmas gift days before the incident occurred.

Watch |&nbsp;US bars imports from 3 more Chinese companies over Uyghur forced labour

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&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has dominated the Global Leader Approval ratings, topping at 76 per cent. The second-highest approval rating is held by Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador at 66 per cent, followed by Switzerland President Alain Berset at 58 per cent.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has dominated the Global Leader Approval ratings, topping at 76 per cent. The second-highest approval rating is held by Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador at 66 per cent, followed by Switzerland President Alain Berset at 58 per cent. United States President Joe Biden on Friday (Dec 8) unveiled a $3 billion investment for a high-speed rail project to connect Las Vegas and Los Angeles. This rail project would reduce the trip (from LA to Las Vegas and Las Vegas to LA) time from seven hours to just three hours. In other news from around the world, North Korea warned that it would carry more spy satellite launches soon to gather more information about the military activities of its enemies. Click on the headlines to read more: Indian PM Modi dominates Global Leader Approval ratings, tops the chart with impressive 76 percent Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to remain a global frontrunner in global leadership approval, boasting an impressive 76 per cent rating, as revealed by the latest survey conducted by Morning Consult. This commanding approval rating placed Prime Minister Modi ahead of other world leaders, who are trailing behind by a huge margin. US President Biden unveils $3 billion investment for LA-Las Vegas high-speed rail project United States President Joe Biden on Friday (Dec 8) unveiled a $3 billion investment for a high-speed rail project to connect Las Vegas and Los Angeles. He pointed out that the new rail project will reduce the trip (from LA to Las Vegas and Las Vegas to LA) time from seven hours to just three hours. North Korea boasts of satellite capability, warns to launch more soon North Korea has warned that it would carry more spy satellite launches in the coming months in order to gather more information about the military activities of its enemies, a commentary carried by state news agency KCNA said on Saturday (Dec 9). Michigan school shooter sentenced to life in prison without parole An American teenager, who shot dead four of his classmates in 2021 at a high school outside Detroit, was on Friday (Dec 8) sentenced to life imprisonment without parole. Ethan Crumbley had opened fire on Nov 30 2021 with a semi-automatic handgun that his father bought as a Christmas gift days before the incident occurred. Watch | US bars imports from 3 more Chinese companies over Uyghur forced labour ×

Morning brief: Indian PM Modi dominates Global Leader Approval ratings, and more

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Dec 8) announced that he will be again running for president in the 2024 presidential election – a move which is most likely to keep him in power till at least 2030.

<h2>When will elections take place?</h2>

The election will be conducted in a span of three days starting from March 15-17 and the winning candidate will become the next president in the month of May. 
 
The Russian parliament's upper house voted for the date of elections on Thursday (Dec 7), which also marked the start of the election campaign. 
 
This time, voting will also be conducted in what Russia refers to as its new territories – which are the parts of Ukraine where the Russian forces have gained their control. Ukraine has said it will not stop till it has removed every Russian soldier from the annexed territories.

<h2>How many voters will vote in the elections?</h2>

In Russia, nearly 110 million people have the right to cast their vote, although usually around 70-80 million people turn up for voting. In 2018, the turnout was 67.5 per cent.

<h2>How long is Putin likely to rule if elected again?</h2>

On the last day of 1999, Putin was handed over the presidency of Russia by Boris Yeltsin and till now he has already become the longest-serving Russian president since Josef Stalin, breaking the record of even Leonid Brezhnev, who was the president from 1964 to 1982.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-enters-west-asia-powerplay-in-rare-wartime-visit-to-uae-saudi-arabia-666888">Putin enters West Asia powerplay in rare wartime visit to UAE, Saudi Arabia</a>

The 1993 Russian constitution, which is loosely based on the 1958 constitution of France, was perceived by some in the West as a step which would lead post-Soviet Russia towards democracy. The constitution originally had stated that a president can only serve for two successive terms which will be four years each. 
 
In the amendments made in 2008, the presidential term was extended to six years and amendments introduced in 2020 gave Putin the power to run for the post of president for more than two six-year terms after 2024. This means, that if he is elected this time he will remain president till 2030 and if he manages to clinch victory post that, then Putin will remain president of Russia till 2036.

<h2>How fair are elections and what are Putin's chances of winning?</h2>

With the Russian State Duma considered a “rubber stamp” body which lacks influence and just plays the role of a vote-button-pushing automaton for the government, several questions arise over Putin's chances of winning the elections and how fairly they would be held. 
 
Putin is considered as a war criminal by the West but that fails to reflect in the Russian opinion polls where he is shown to have approval ratings of 80 per cent, which is higher than his approval ratings before Russia invaded Ukraine. 
 
As per the Kremlin, Putin has been enjoying overwhelming support from the people of Russia and the country is not interested in being lectured about democracy by the West and that there are no politicians in the West who have similar approval ratings as that of Putin.

<h2>Where is Putin's opposition&nbsp;and who else will or can run elections?</h2>

It is most likely that Putin will face very little or no real competition in the elections. In the voting held in 2018, the man who came second after Putin was Communist tycoon Pavel Grudinin. Grudinin was able to garner less than 9 million votes, or just 11.8 per cent, as per the official results. 
 
The most well-known opposition politician in Russia is Alexei Navalny who was earlier poisoned and is now in prison so he cannot run for the presidential elections.

Watch:&nbsp;Putin sends message to the world with election announcement

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Navalny has claimed that Russia is currently being run by thieves and criminals and warned that the leaders of Russia will be ultimately crushed one day for creating a bloodbath in Ukraine. 
 
Meanwhile, pro-war Russian nationalist Igor Girkin, who has been kept in custody and awaiting trial for inciting extremism, in November had expressed his willingness to run for presidential elections even though he said that the polls will be a "sham" as the winner is already decided. When the elections will take place, he will be behind bars. 
 
The man, who turned out to be the biggest direct threat to Putin's unchallenged rule, was the most powerful mercenary in Russia, Yevgeny Prigozhin. Prigozhin's short-lived mutiny in June sent thunders into the Kremlin and shook Putin's throne, leaving the world wondering if this was the end of his rule. 
 
However, after two months Prigozhin was killed in a suspicious plane crash and the remnants of his Wagner force went under the control of Russia's allies.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Dec 8) announced that he will be again running for president in the 2024 presidential election – a move which is most likely to keep him in power till at least 2030.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Dec 8) announced that he will be again running for president in the 2024 presidential election – a move which is most likely to keep him in power till at least 2030. When will elections take place? The election will be conducted in a span of three days starting from March 15-17 and the winning candidate will become the next president in the month of May. The Russian parliament's upper house voted for the date of elections on Thursday (Dec 7), which also marked the start of the election campaign. This time, voting will also be conducted in what Russia refers to as its new territories – which are the parts of Ukraine where the Russian forces have gained their control. Ukraine has said it will not stop till it has removed every Russian soldier from the annexed territories. How many voters will vote in the elections? In Russia, nearly 110 million people have the right to cast their vote, although usually around 70-80 million people turn up for voting. In 2018, the turnout was 67.5 per cent. How long is Putin likely to rule if elected again? On the last day of 1999, Putin was handed over the presidency of Russia by Boris Yeltsin and till now he has already become the longest-serving Russian president since Josef Stalin, breaking the record of even Leonid Brezhnev, who was the president from 1964 to 1982. Also read: Putin enters West Asia powerplay in rare wartime visit to UAE, Saudi Arabia The 1993 Russian constitution, which is loosely based on the 1958 constitution of France, was perceived by some in the West as a step which would lead post-Soviet Russia towards democracy. The constitution originally had stated that a president can only serve for two successive terms which will be four years each. In the amendments made in 2008, the presidential term was extended to six years and amendments introduced in 2020 gave Putin the power to run for the post of president for more than two six-year terms after 2024. This means, that if he is elected this time he will remain president till 2030 and if he manages to clinch victory post that, then Putin will remain president of Russia till 2036. How fair are elections and what are Putin's chances of winning? With the Russian State Duma considered a “rubber stamp” body which lacks influence and just plays the role of a vote-button-pushing automaton for the government, several questions arise over Putin's chances of winning the elections and how fairly they would be held. Putin is considered as a war criminal by the West but that fails to reflect in the Russian opinion polls where he is shown to have approval ratings of 80 per cent, which is higher than his approval ratings before Russia invaded Ukraine. As per the Kremlin, Putin has been enjoying overwhelming support from the people of Russia and the country is not interested in being lectured about democracy by the West and that there are no politicians in the West who have similar approval ratings as that of Putin. Where is Putin's opposition and who else will or can run elections? It is most likely that Putin will face very little or no real competition in the elections. In the voting held in 2018, the man who came second after Putin was Communist tycoon Pavel Grudinin. Grudinin was able to garner less than 9 million votes, or just 11.8 per cent, as per the official results. The most well-known opposition politician in Russia is Alexei Navalny who was earlier poisoned and is now in prison so he cannot run for the presidential elections. Watch: Putin sends message to the world with election announcement Navalny has claimed that Russia is currently being run by thieves and criminals and warned that the leaders of Russia will be ultimately crushed one day for creating a bloodbath in Ukraine. Meanwhile, pro-war Russian nationalist Igor Girkin, who has been kept in custody and awaiting trial for inciting extremism, in November had expressed his willingness to run for presidential elections even though he said that the polls will be a "sham" as the winner is already decided. When the elections will take place, he will be behind bars. The man, who turned out to be the biggest direct threat to Putin's unchallenged rule, was the most powerful mercenary in Russia, Yevgeny Prigozhin. Prigozhin's short-lived mutiny in June sent thunders into the Kremlin and shook Putin's throne, leaving the world wondering if this was the end of his rule. However, after two months Prigozhin was killed in a suspicious plane crash and the remnants of his Wagner force went under the control of Russia's allies. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Putin, presidency and elections — a race of convenience for indisputable rule

The IDF released dramatic footage of troops of the elite LOTAR Unit battling Hamas operatives in a school in Gaza City’s Shejaiya neighborhood.

Israeli footage shows IDF troops battling Hamas operatives in Gaza City

Indian PM Narendra Modi retained his position as the world's most popular leader with an approval rating of 76 percent, as per the data released by US-based consultancy firm ‘Morning Consult’ on December 7. Mexico President Andrés Manuel López Obrador is ranked second on the list with an approval rating of 66 percent.

Indian PM Modi tops list of most popular global leaders with 76% rating

The United States restricted imports from three more Chinese companies, including COFCO Sugar Holding, over forced labour practices involving Uyghurs and other minorities in China, the U.S. government said on Friday.

US bars imports from 3 more Chinese companies over Uyghur forced labour

Since the war broke out between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, Yemen's Houthi rebels have escalated attacks on ships crossing the Red Sea. From 1,000 miles away from the Gaza Strip, the Houthis have launched attacks on not only commercial ships but also fired missiles towards U.S. warships. So why hasn't the U.S. retaliated against the Houthis in Yemen? In this episode of Gravitas Plus, we do a deep dive into the origins, motivations, and global implications of the Houthi rebels and why their actions matter.

Gravitas Plus: Why Houthis Target Ships in the Red Sea | What Stops U.S. From Retaliating?

The attack is the first to be confirmed on the U.S. Embassy since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas war. It's located in Baghdad’s heavily fortified green zone, which houses Iraqi government buildings and embassies, on the west bank of the Tigris river.

US Says bring those responsible for attack to justice

A leading organization representing journalists worldwide expressed deep concern Friday at the number of media professionals killed around the globe doing their jobs in 2023, with Israel’s war with Hamas claiming more journalists than any conflict in over 30 years.

94 journalists have been killed so far in 2023, rights group says

China on Saturday (Dec 9) went all guns blazing over calls to include Taiwan in the United Nations-backed Conference of the Parties (COP28) Summit being held in Dubai.

A member of the Chinese delegation reasserted on the platform that Taiwan “was an inalienable part of China.”

"China has noted that during the meeting a handful of countries ignore the fact that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China and make noises about the participation by the Taiwan authorities in the COP," the member said via a translator.

"This is unacceptable," the delegate said, asking for their statement to be entered into the official record.

<h2>Allies call for Taiwan’s inclusion</h2>

Earlier this week, the leaders of four of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies, namely Saint Lucia and Saint Kitts and Nevis, Tuvalu, and Eswatini, called on the UN to include Taiwan in the climate conference.

In his address, Saint Lucian Prime Minister Philip Pierre said that "the time is now for world leaders to transform to a safer place for our children."

"And in this battle Taiwan must not be left behind," he underlined.

Watch:&nbsp;Japan worries of an influx of refugees amid China-Taiwan tensions

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Prime Minister Terrance Drew of Saint Kitts and Nevis named Taiwan as a "reliable global partner in the climate crisis."

"Saint Kitts and Nevis firmly believes that Taiwan, as an island nation, should be allowed to play meaningful role in the existential policy drives of the United Nations," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/taiwans-financial-ties-with-china-unravel-as-etf-market-nears-collapse-667106">Also read:&nbsp;Taiwan`s financial ties with China unravel as ETF market nears collapse</a>

In his address, Russell Mmiso Dlamini, prime minister of the Kingdom of Eswatini, said all countries should be part of the agreements and commitments on climate action.

"If countries like Taiwan have voluntarily committed for the sake of the planet and people without being a party to the negotiations, then the rest of us can," he said, adding that Eswatini calls for Taiwan's formal inclusion in future COP meetings.

<h2>Taiwan’s status at the UN</h2>

Taiwan, a proud democratic country in East Asia, was kicked out of the UN in 1971. Over the last few years, Beijing has exerted pressure on nations still having active diplomatic relations with the island nation.&nbsp;

But Beijing’s pressure has not stopped Taiwan from contributing to the global good amid increasing climate change concerns. It has already submitted an action plan in line with the 2015 accord. In Dubai too, it took out advertisements in public places to highlight its activities.

(With inputs from agencies)

China on Saturday (Dec 9) went all guns blazing over calls to include Taiwan in the United Nations-backed Conference of the Parties (COP28) Summit being held in Dubai.

China on Saturday (Dec 9) went all guns blazing over calls to include Taiwan in the United Nations-backed Conference of the Parties (COP28) Summit being held in Dubai. A member of the Chinese delegation reasserted on the platform that Taiwan “was an inalienable part of China.” "China has noted that during the meeting a handful of countries ignore the fact that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China and make noises about the participation by the Taiwan authorities in the COP," the member said via a translator. "This is unacceptable," the delegate said, asking for their statement to be entered into the official record. Allies call for Taiwan’s inclusion Earlier this week, the leaders of four of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies, namely Saint Lucia and Saint Kitts and Nevis, Tuvalu, and Eswatini, called on the UN to include Taiwan in the climate conference. In his address, Saint Lucian Prime Minister Philip Pierre said that "the time is now for world leaders to transform to a safer place for our children." "And in this battle Taiwan must not be left behind," he underlined. Watch: Japan worries of an influx of refugees amid China-Taiwan tensions × Prime Minister Terrance Drew of Saint Kitts and Nevis named Taiwan as a "reliable global partner in the climate crisis." "Saint Kitts and Nevis firmly believes that Taiwan, as an island nation, should be allowed to play meaningful role in the existential policy drives of the United Nations," he said. Also read: Taiwan`s financial ties with China unravel as ETF market nears collapse In his address, Russell Mmiso Dlamini, prime minister of the Kingdom of Eswatini, said all countries should be part of the agreements and commitments on climate action. "If countries like Taiwan have voluntarily committed for the sake of the planet and people without being a party to the negotiations, then the rest of us can," he said, adding that Eswatini calls for Taiwan's formal inclusion in future COP meetings. Taiwan’s status at the UN Taiwan, a proud democratic country in East Asia, was kicked out of the UN in 1971. Over the last few years, Beijing has exerted pressure on nations still having active diplomatic relations with the island nation. But Beijing’s pressure has not stopped Taiwan from contributing to the global good amid increasing climate change concerns. It has already submitted an action plan in line with the 2015 accord. In Dubai too, it took out advertisements in public places to highlight its activities. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Unacceptable,’ China lashes out at nations calling for Taiwan’s inclusion in COP28

Rishi Sunak argued that ministers should let Covid "rip a bit" according to a damning diary extract disclosed to the Covid Inquiry.

UK PM Sunak argued let virus 'rip a bit' new Covid Inquiry diary extract claims

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday announced that he will seek re-election in 2024 for his third consecutive term, and sixth overall, media reports said.

Putin to seek re-election in 2024 Presidential polls

The United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution that would have called for an immediate ceasefire in the intense fighting between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The U.S. Criticized them for rushing it through and leaving the call for an unconditional ceasefire unchanged. Meanwhile, Britain abstained because there was no condemnation of Hamas.

US & Israel oppose ceasefire claiming it will benefit Hamas

Pekka Haavisto has been Finland's foreign minister for the past four years. He has helped get Finland into NATO and now he's spinning records as DJ Pexi getting young voters on the dance floor in his attempt to become Finland's next president.

Will 'DJ Pexi' become Finland's next President?

PM Modi once again ranked the most popular global leader

The fatalities are on the rise in the besieged Gaza Strip. According to Hamas, the Central Gaza Hospital witnessed 71 fatalities in 24 hours all the regions in Gaza are under constant attack. The IDF released a video of attacks on the northeastern region. To know more watch this interview with a professor of Clinton Institute, University College, Scott Lucas.

Israel-Hamas war | Hamas: 71 fatalities in the span of 24 hours

The fatalities are on the rise in the besieged Gaza Strip. According to Hamas, the Central Gaza Hospital witnessed 71 fatalities in 24 hours all the regions in Gaza are under constant attack. The IDF released a video of attacks on the northeastern region.

Israel-Hamas war: IDF releases video of its intensified attacks in North-East Gaza

Is Hamas diverting this much needed aid from its own people? Israel has been making such claims that Hamas has been blocking the crucial Aid and that Gazans are not its priority.

Israel-Hamas war | Gazan woman to journalist: All the aid goes to Hamas tunnel

Iraqi PM says attacks on embassies undermine country's security

A group of Catholic nuns who are Smith & Wessen shareholders have filed a lawsuit against the gun maker for its marketing and sales of AR-15 style rifles. The company CEO has retaliated saying that it is a frivolous lawsuit.

Catholic nuns file lawsuit over AR-15 deaths

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