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A resolution has been introduced in the US House of Representatives. It urges Pakistan to uphold Democratic institutions human rights and the rule of law. This comes as the South Asian nation is gearing up for its delayed general elections scheduled for February next year.

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On the other hand prime minister Rishi Sunak is facing increasing pressure from the hardliners in Britain's ruling conservative party. Sunak's position has been considerably weakened by the resignation of his immigration Minister.

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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's administration claimed on Thursday (Dec 7) that the Russian security service compromised private conversations of high-profile UK politicians and media figures.&nbsp;

The UK Foreign Office claimed that hacking groups affiliated with Russia's FSB security service orchestrated "sustained unsuccessful attempts to interfere in UK&nbsp;political processes."&nbsp;

Following the revelations, the UK deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden accused the FSB of employing "sub-state" hacking groups for their activities.

The UK has imposed sanctions on two members of a group known as "Star Blizzard" following the revelations.

In coordination with the United States, UK's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's administration has now launched a coordinated effort to disrupt the said&nbsp;hacking campaign aimed at what they say is an attempt to undermine democratic processes in both their countries.

<h2>Who all were allegedly targeted?</h2>

UK Foreign Office Minister Leo Docherty, while addressing the House of Commons, claimed that the MPs, peers, civil servants, journalists, and NGOs were among the targets of these cyber operations over several years, with an intent to "meddle in British politics."&nbsp;

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

The UK government conceded that some private conversations were indeed compromised. The Foreign Office minister Docherty, however, claimed that the broader Russian campaign had not achieved success.&nbsp;

He alleged that the hacking groups selectively leaked and amplified information in an effort to interfere in UK politics.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-uks-sellafield-nuclear-plant-hacked-rishi-sunak-govt-tries-to-paper-over-explosive-report-666363">Was UK’s Sellafield nuclear plant hacked? Rishi Sunak govt tries to paper over explosive report</a>

It is not yet clear where this leaked information was released and how exactly did it make it to the public domain, if at all.

Responding to inquiries during a press conference, the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak refrained from confirming whether he had been personally targeted. Foreign Secretary David Cameron said that, despite persistent attempts to interfere in U.K. politics, the group had ultimately "failed."

Also watch |&nbsp;Russian spies hacked former UK Prime Minister Liz Truss' mobile phone

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"In sanctioning those responsible and summoning the Russian Ambassador today, we are exposing their malign attempts at influence and shining a light on yet another example of how Russia chooses to operate on the global stage," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's administration claimed on Thursday (Dec 7) that the Russian security service compromised private conversations of high-profile UK politicians and media figures.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's administration claimed on Thursday (Dec 7) that the Russian security service compromised private conversations of high-profile UK politicians and media figures. The UK Foreign Office claimed that hacking groups affiliated with Russia's FSB security service orchestrated "sustained unsuccessful attempts to interfere in UK political processes." Following the revelations, the UK deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden accused the FSB of employing "sub-state" hacking groups for their activities. The UK has imposed sanctions on two members of a group known as "Star Blizzard" following the revelations. In coordination with the United States, UK's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's administration has now launched a coordinated effort to disrupt the said hacking campaign aimed at what they say is an attempt to undermine democratic processes in both their countries. Who all were allegedly targeted? UK Foreign Office Minister Leo Docherty, while addressing the House of Commons, claimed that the MPs, peers, civil servants, journalists, and NGOs were among the targets of these cyber operations over several years, with an intent to "meddle in British politics." What does it mean? The UK government conceded that some private conversations were indeed compromised. The Foreign Office minister Docherty, however, claimed that the broader Russian campaign had not achieved success. He alleged that the hacking groups selectively leaked and amplified information in an effort to interfere in UK politics. Also read | Was UK’s Sellafield nuclear plant hacked? Rishi Sunak govt tries to paper over explosive report It is not yet clear where this leaked information was released and how exactly did it make it to the public domain, if at all. Responding to inquiries during a press conference, the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak refrained from confirming whether he had been personally targeted. Foreign Secretary David Cameron said that, despite persistent attempts to interfere in U.K. politics, the group had ultimately "failed." Also watch | Russian spies hacked former UK Prime Minister Liz Truss' mobile phone × "In sanctioning those responsible and summoning the Russian Ambassador today, we are exposing their malign attempts at influence and shining a light on yet another example of how Russia chooses to operate on the global stage," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

UK, US accuse Russia of cyberattacks to 'target' politicians, journalists

A handwritten cheque from Steve Jobs to RadioShack is currently up for auction, attracting significant attention from collectors.

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As part of years-long attempts to meddle in British politics, Russia's intelligence services have targeted prominent British lawmakers, civil workers, and journalists with cyberespionage, the British government announced on Thursday. According to the Foreign Office, Russia's FSB agency was in charge of a number of ongoing cyberespionage operations in the United Kingdom from at least 2015 until this year. These operations included targeting lawmakers from various political parties and selectively leaking and amplifying sensitive information to further Russian interests.

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The Nigerian Navy claimed on Thursday that a 77-meter-long motor tanker, MT VINNALARIS 1 LAGOS, implicated in crude oil theft, was arrested on Thursday by its Forward Operating Base, FOB, IGBOKODA, in Ondo State.

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Macron will host Orban at the Elysee Palace for a working dinner from 1930 GMT to discuss "several subjects" on the agenda for the EU summit next week, including "various aspects of European support for Ukraine".

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At least three rockets targeted the US embassy in Iraq's Baghdad on Friday (Dec 8). According to a report by the news agency AFP, an Iraqi security official said that the three Katyusha rockets landed on the outskirts of the district housing government and diplomatic buildings.&nbsp;

Speaking to AFP, a US military official, who chose to remain anonymous, said that alarms had gone off and that "likely impact sounds" could be heard near the US embassy and Union III base, where troops from the international anti-jihadist coalition are stationed.

"We are still awaiting official reports regarding casualties and damage to infrastructure, if any. We are also awaiting official reporting on the type of attack," the official said.

The embassy urged the Iraqi government to protect its diplomats. "We again call on the government of Iraq... to protect diplomatic and coalition partner personnel and facilities," an embassy spokesperson said in a statement.

This is the first attack against the US embassy in Iraq since the Israel-Hamas war started on Oct 7. Since mid-October, there have been several rocket or drone strikes by pro-Iran groups against American or coalition forces, mainly&nbsp;in Syria.

Friday's attack came a day after Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani said during a phone call with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken that Baghdad rejected "any attack on Iraqi territory."

According to a statement from Sudani's office, he also said that the government was committed to ensuring the safety of the international coalition advisers present in Iraq.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

At least three rockets targeted the US embassy in Iraq's Baghdad on Friday (Dec 8). According to a report by the news agency AFP, an Iraqi security official said that the three Katyusha rockets landed on the outskirts of the district housing government and diplomatic buildings.

At least three rockets targeted the US embassy in Iraq's Baghdad on Friday (Dec 8). According to a report by the news agency AFP, an Iraqi security official said that the three Katyusha rockets landed on the outskirts of the district housing government and diplomatic buildings. Speaking to AFP, a US military official, who chose to remain anonymous, said that alarms had gone off and that "likely impact sounds" could be heard near the US embassy and Union III base, where troops from the international anti-jihadist coalition are stationed. "We are still awaiting official reports regarding casualties and damage to infrastructure, if any. We are also awaiting official reporting on the type of attack," the official said. The embassy urged the Iraqi government to protect its diplomats. "We again call on the government of Iraq... to protect diplomatic and coalition partner personnel and facilities," an embassy spokesperson said in a statement. This is the first attack against the US embassy in Iraq since the Israel-Hamas war started on Oct 7. Since mid-October, there have been several rocket or drone strikes by pro-Iran groups against American or coalition forces, mainly in Syria. Friday's attack came a day after Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani said during a phone call with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken that Baghdad rejected "any attack on Iraqi territory." According to a statement from Sudani's office, he also said that the government was committed to ensuring the safety of the international coalition advisers present in Iraq. (With inputs from agencies)

Iraq: Three rockets target US embassy in Baghdad's Green Zone

Sixth meeting of the Security Conclave was held in Mauritius' capital Port Louis on Thursday. The meeting was attended by the National Security Advisers of member nation - India, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius along with senior delegates.

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A 5.8-magnitude earthquake shook much of central Mexico on Thursday including the capital, prompting people to run into the streets, the country's seismological institute said.

There were no initial reports of damage in Mexico City, a sprawling metropolis of nine million people, Mayor Marti Batres wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador was briefed by civil protection officials and said afterward in a video posted on X, "apparently the quake was not that strong. In any case we will release more information soon."

The rumbling in the quake-prone country touched off a warning siren system. The institute said the epicenter was in the central state of Puebla.

Puebla officials the quake was felt in several towns but there were no initial reports of damage or injuries.

Mexico lies over five tectonic plates that make it one of the world's most earthquake vulnerable countries, particularly on the Pacific coast.

In 1985 an 8.1 magnitude quake centered on the Pacific coast ravaged much of central and southern Mexico, killing thousands and causing severe damage in Mexico City.

A 7.1-magnitude quake on September 19, 2017 killed 369 people, most of them in the capital.

On that same day in 2022 central Mexico was hit by another quake, just hours after millions of people had taken part in a mock earthquake safety exercise.

A 5.8-magnitude earthquake shook much of central Mexico on Thursday including the capital, prompting people to run into the streets, the country's seismological institute said.

A 5.8-magnitude earthquake shook much of central Mexico on Thursday including the capital, prompting people to run into the streets, the country's seismological institute said. There were no initial reports of damage in Mexico City, a sprawling metropolis of nine million people, Mayor Marti Batres wrote on X, formerly Twitter. President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador was briefed by civil protection officials and said afterward in a video posted on X, "apparently the quake was not that strong. In any case we will release more information soon." The rumbling in the quake-prone country touched off a warning siren system. The institute said the epicenter was in the central state of Puebla. Puebla officials the quake was felt in several towns but there were no initial reports of damage or injuries. Mexico lies over five tectonic plates that make it one of the world's most earthquake vulnerable countries, particularly on the Pacific coast. In 1985 an 8.1 magnitude quake centered on the Pacific coast ravaged much of central and southern Mexico, killing thousands and causing severe damage in Mexico City. A 7.1-magnitude quake on September 19, 2017 killed 369 people, most of them in the capital. On that same day in 2022 central Mexico was hit by another quake, just hours after millions of people had taken part in a mock earthquake safety exercise.

Earthquake in central Mexico shakes capital city

A Christmas tree gifted by Norway has arrived in London's Trafalgar Square - it is a tradition that the city of Oslo honours every year and the tree comes from the snowy forests of Norway.

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Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that suggestions that he wanted to allow the Covid-19 virus to 'rip through population' were completely wrong. He refuted the portrayal of partying in downing street during the second day of public questioning calling it 'absurd'.

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Britain's ruling Conservative Party is in disarray after its Immigration Minister quit over legislation regarding sending migrants to Rwanda. Hardliners are turning the screw on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The UK leader's position looks increasingly vulnerable after Robert Jenrick said he quit due to strong disagreements with direction of the government's policy on Immigration.

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A Canadian news anchor recently gained attention online for her epic response to a body-shamer who asked if she was pregnant and criticised her appearance.&nbsp;

The 59-year-old, Leslie Horton, a traffic reporter with Canadian news outlet Global News was in the midst of giving her usual traffic report in late November when she paused to address an email from a viewer who criticised&nbsp;her appearance on live television.

<h2>Horton slams online troll</h2>

“I’m just going to respond to an email that I just got saying: ‘Congratulations on your pregnancy,’” Horton said on-air. “If you’re gonna wear old bus driver pants then you have to expect emails like this,” the email also said as per the news anchor.&nbsp;

Responding to the email, she said, “So, thanks for that. Um, no, I’m not pregnant. I actually lost my uterus to cancer last year. And um, this is what women of my age look like.”&nbsp;

“So if it is offensive to you, that is unfortunate,” Horton added. “Think about the emails you send,” she concluded.&nbsp;

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Global News Calgary traffic reporter <a href="https://twitter.com/global_leslie?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@global_leslie</a> responds to an email criticising her choice of clothes. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/yyc?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#yyc</a> <a href="https://t.co/r9Od0hKbn0">pic.twitter.com/r9Od0hKbn0</a>
— Global Calgary (@GlobalCalgary) <a href="https://twitter.com/GlobalCalgary/status/1732158760364453906?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The clip of Horton’s response was posted by her network, on X and has since garnered 3.5 million views. The Canadian journalist is also being praised for publicly calling out the body-shaming remarks.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/as-halleys-comet-completes-75-years-of-journey-heres-how-it-can-be-visible-in-your-lifetime-667184">Halley’s Comet is gearing up for a return journey towards us. The wait is quite long though</a>

“This is how you stand up to BS misogynistic comments,” said one user on X. While another user compared the comments to that of a child. “Ah yes. Grade 5. When we made fun of what others wear and lacked the judgement to know better.”&nbsp;

However, some others also the media outlet for calling Horton’s response “emotional”.&nbsp;

“Leslie, I'm glad you called this person out. To be clear, you, a powerful intelligent professional, look amazing. Now to Global, here is my "emotional" response to your assessment of Leslie's reply. If she were a man, would you call him "emotional"? You owe her an apology,” said one user.&nbsp;

<h2>‘I was hurt and angry’</h2>

In an interview with ABC’s Good Morning America, on Wednesday (Dec 6) the Canadian journalist spoke about how she would typically “ignore” or “dismiss” any negative remarks but this particular one hit close to home. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/walk-in-her-shoes-ohio-woman-who-hurled-chipotle-bowl-at-worker-handed-unusual-sentence-667203">‘Walk in her shoes’: Ohio woman who hurled Chipotle bowl at worker handed unusual sentence</a>

She also said “It is a man” who has been sending “nasty emails for about four years now…it’s been a pretty constant stream of emails…And when I got that email during our show, last Wednesday morning, I had a visceral response to it. And I was hurt, angry.”&nbsp;

“The aim of the email was to hurt and humiliate. And shame me,” she told GMA. In 2021, Horton was diagnosed with endometrial cancer and lost her uterus during the journey.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A Canadian news anchor recently gained attention online for her epic response to a body-shamer who asked if she was pregnant and criticised her appearance. The 59-year-old, Leslie Horton, a traffic reporter with Canadian news outlet Global News was in the midst of giving her usual traffic report in late November when she paused to address an email from a viewer who criticised her appearance on live television.

A Canadian news anchor recently gained attention online for her epic response to a body-shamer who asked if she was pregnant and criticised her appearance. The 59-year-old, Leslie Horton, a traffic reporter with Canadian news outlet Global News was in the midst of giving her usual traffic report in late November when she paused to address an email from a viewer who criticised her appearance on live television. Horton slams online troll “I’m just going to respond to an email that I just got saying: ‘Congratulations on your pregnancy,’” Horton said on-air. “If you’re gonna wear old bus driver pants then you have to expect emails like this,” the email also said as per the news anchor. Responding to the email, she said, “So, thanks for that. Um, no, I’m not pregnant. I actually lost my uterus to cancer last year. And um, this is what women of my age look like.” “So if it is offensive to you, that is unfortunate,” Horton added. “Think about the emails you send,” she concluded. Global News Calgary traffic reporter @global_leslie responds to an email criticising her choice of clothes. #yyc pic.twitter.com/r9Od0hKbn0 — Global Calgary (@GlobalCalgary) December 5, 2023 × The clip of Horton’s response was posted by her network, on X and has since garnered 3.5 million views. The Canadian journalist is also being praised for publicly calling out the body-shaming remarks. ALSO READ | Halley’s Comet is gearing up for a return journey towards us. The wait is quite long though “This is how you stand up to BS misogynistic comments,” said one user on X. While another user compared the comments to that of a child. “Ah yes. Grade 5. When we made fun of what others wear and lacked the judgement to know better.” However, some others also the media outlet for calling Horton’s response “emotional”. “Leslie, I'm glad you called this person out. To be clear, you, a powerful intelligent professional, look amazing. Now to Global, here is my "emotional" response to your assessment of Leslie's reply. If she were a man, would you call him "emotional"? You owe her an apology,” said one user. ‘I was hurt and angry’ In an interview with ABC’s Good Morning America, on Wednesday (Dec 6) the Canadian journalist spoke about how she would typically “ignore” or “dismiss” any negative remarks but this particular one hit close to home. ALSO READ | ‘Walk in her shoes’: Ohio woman who hurled Chipotle bowl at worker handed unusual sentence She also said “It is a man” who has been sending “nasty emails for about four years now…it’s been a pretty constant stream of emails…And when I got that email during our show, last Wednesday morning, I had a visceral response to it. And I was hurt, angry.” “The aim of the email was to hurt and humiliate. And shame me,” she told GMA. In 2021, Horton was diagnosed with endometrial cancer and lost her uterus during the journey. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | News anchor on live TV slams body shamer who asked if she’s pregnant, criticised her appearance

Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (December 6) gave his most explicit apology for his government's handling of the coronavirus pandemic. Speaking at the United Kingdom's public COVID-19 inquiry, he said that his government had been too complacent and "vastly underestimated" the risks posed by the deadly virus.&nbsp;

However, his attempts to apologise were met by heckling from demonstrators, who lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.

<h2>Too little too late?</h2>

UK's PA Media news agency&nbsp;reports that as Johnson began to say his apologies, four people holding signs "the dead can't hear your apologies" stood up.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-deeply-sorry-to-families-of-covid-victims-during-inquiry-into-britains-handling-of-pandemic-666817">Boris Johnson says 'deeply sorry' to families of Covid victims at inquiry into Britain's handling of pandemic</a>

One of them, Kathryn Butcher, who lost her sister-in-law Myrna Saunders to Covid, told the UK news agency: "We didn't want his apology. When he tried to apologise, we stood up. We didn't block anybody. We were told to sit down."

Videos of people heckling him as he left the courtroom are circulating on social media, where people can be heard shouting at him.

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Boris Johnson ducks the media and is heckled by protesters as he leaves his first day at the Covid inquiry. Back tomorrow <a href="https://t.co/EanqcM9QuU">pic.twitter.com/EanqcM9QuU</a>
— Hamish Morrison (@HMorrison97) <a href="https://twitter.com/HMorrison97/status/1732451763515494722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Johnson's emotional apology</h2>

Overcome with emotions as he gave evidence, Johnson described 2020 as a "tragic, tragic year".

He said that at first, COVID-19 appeared as a "cloud on the horizon" and not the "typhoon" that killed more than 230,000 people in Britain.

As per the ex-prime minister, initially, he had trouble believing the forecast of fatalities, especially given previous scares like the swine flu pandemic and mad cow disease.

However, he admitted that he had only read minutes of the government's key scientific advisory groups on multiple occasions.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-cyberattacks-explosive-report-now-highlights-radioactive-leak-from-uks-sellafield-nuclear-site-666857">After cyberattacks, explosive report now highlights radioactive leak from UK’s Sellafield nuclear site</a>

Despite that, he denied that he was indecisive, and said there were constant, conflicting arguments between ministers and officials about Covid response. He also said that senior ministers were more reluctant than him to impose restrictions on public movement.

"Can I say that I understand the feelings of the victims and their families, and I am deeply sorry for the pain and the loss and the suffering," he said.

Dismissing the apologies, Aamer Anwar, the solicitor representing some bereaved families, said that Boris Johnson oversaw "a deadly culture of impunity, incompetence". He also alleged that the former PM treated people like "toxic waste".

(With inputs from agencies)

Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (December 6) gave his most explicit apology for his government's handling of the coronavirus pandemic. Speaking at the United Kingdom's public COVID-19 inquiry, he said that his government had been too complacent and "vastly underestimated" the risks posed by the deadly virus.

Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (December 6) gave his most explicit apology for his government's handling of the coronavirus pandemic. Speaking at the United Kingdom's public COVID-19 inquiry, he said that his government had been too complacent and "vastly underestimated" the risks posed by the deadly virus. However, his attempts to apologise were met by heckling from demonstrators, who lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic. Too little too late? UK's PA Media news agency reports that as Johnson began to say his apologies, four people holding signs "the dead can't hear your apologies" stood up. Also read | Boris Johnson says 'deeply sorry' to families of Covid victims at inquiry into Britain's handling of pandemic One of them, Kathryn Butcher, who lost her sister-in-law Myrna Saunders to Covid, told the UK news agency: "We didn't want his apology. When he tried to apologise, we stood up. We didn't block anybody. We were told to sit down." Videos of people heckling him as he left the courtroom are circulating on social media, where people can be heard shouting at him. Boris Johnson ducks the media and is heckled by protesters as he leaves his first day at the Covid inquiry. Back tomorrow pic.twitter.com/EanqcM9QuU — Hamish Morrison (@HMorrison97) December 6, 2023 × Johnson's emotional apology Overcome with emotions as he gave evidence, Johnson described 2020 as a "tragic, tragic year". He said that at first, COVID-19 appeared as a "cloud on the horizon" and not the "typhoon" that killed more than 230,000 people in Britain. As per the ex-prime minister, initially, he had trouble believing the forecast of fatalities, especially given previous scares like the swine flu pandemic and mad cow disease. However, he admitted that he had only read minutes of the government's key scientific advisory groups on multiple occasions. Also read | After cyberattacks, explosive report now highlights radioactive leak from UK’s Sellafield nuclear site Despite that, he denied that he was indecisive, and said there were constant, conflicting arguments between ministers and officials about Covid response. He also said that senior ministers were more reluctant than him to impose restrictions on public movement. "Can I say that I understand the feelings of the victims and their families, and I am deeply sorry for the pain and the loss and the suffering," he said. Dismissing the apologies, Aamer Anwar, the solicitor representing some bereaved families, said that Boris Johnson oversaw "a deadly culture of impunity, incompetence". He also alleged that the former PM treated people like "toxic waste". (With inputs from agencies)

Boris Johnson's apologies over COVID-19 pandemic handling met with signs of 'dead can't hear'. Watch!

Former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori, who was serving a 25-year prison term for the human rights abuses during his decade-long rule in the 1990s, has been released from a prison in capital Lima.

The 85-year-old former president, son of Japanese immigrant parents,&nbsp;was serving a 25-year sentence in connection with the killings of 25 Peruvians by purported death squads in the 1990s.

Peru’s constitutional court ordered his immediate release on Tuesday (Dec 6) but the Inter-American Court of Human Rights had asked for a delay to study the ruling.

<h2>Watch: When Fujimori walked out of jail</h2>

Fujimori was seen wearing a face mask and getting supplemental oxygen. He&nbsp;walked out of the prison door and got in a sport utility vehicle driven by his daughter-in-law.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-change-peru-has-lost-56-of-tropical-glaciers-in-last-six-decades-661847">Climate change: Peru has lost 56% of tropical glaciers in last six decades</a>

He sat in the backseat with son and daughter, the career politician Keiko Fujimori widely deemed Fujimori's political heiress.&nbsp;

His children were seen hugging him before he got into the car.

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Former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori, who was serving a 25-year prison term for human rights abuses during his decade-long rule in the 1990s, was released from jail after about 16 years despite criticism from an international human rights court <a href="https://t.co/iLLnxzAW20">https://t.co/iLLnxzAW20</a> <a href="https://t.co/MKkvr1QpZh">pic.twitter.com/MKkvr1QpZh</a>
— Reuters (@Reuters) <a href="https://twitter.com/Reuters/status/1732661217519440105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>How Fujimori got out of prison?</h2>

Peru's highest court on Tuesday (Dec 6) ruled in favor of an appeal to restore a 2017 pardon for Fujimori, 85, on humanitarian grounds.

The Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR) had earlier requested the move be blocked.

Fujimori served around 16 years after being extradited from Chile in 2007.

<h2>Fujimori's family's reaction</h2>

Fujimori's political heiress Keiko addressed the crowd through a megaphone at the door of her home where her father is now expected to reside.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Peru: Protesters, police clash as thousands march in support of President | Latest News | WION

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"Today we finally have our father home," Keiko said.

"There is no hatred or resentment in my heart, but gratitude."

The details of local TV footage seen by the Reuters showed a crowd of supporters cheering and pushing against Fujimori's car as it tried to leave the prison's premises on the outskirts of Lima.

"It was time for this injustice against Fujimori to end, thanks to him our country is on its feet," Catalina Ponce, a Fujimori supporter waiting outside the prison, said earlier in the day.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori, who was serving a 25-year prison term for the human rights abuses during his decade-long rule in the 1990s, has been released from a prison in capital Lima.

Former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori, who was serving a 25-year prison term for the human rights abuses during his decade-long rule in the 1990s, has been released from a prison in capital Lima. The 85-year-old former president, son of Japanese immigrant parents, was serving a 25-year sentence in connection with the killings of 25 Peruvians by purported death squads in the 1990s. Peru’s constitutional court ordered his immediate release on Tuesday (Dec 6) but the Inter-American Court of Human Rights had asked for a delay to study the ruling. Watch: When Fujimori walked out of jail Fujimori was seen wearing a face mask and getting supplemental oxygen. He walked out of the prison door and got in a sport utility vehicle driven by his daughter-in-law. Also read | Climate change: Peru has lost 56% of tropical glaciers in last six decades He sat in the backseat with son and daughter, the career politician Keiko Fujimori widely deemed Fujimori's political heiress. His children were seen hugging him before he got into the car. Former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori, who was serving a 25-year prison term for human rights abuses during his decade-long rule in the 1990s, was released from jail after about 16 years despite criticism from an international human rights court https://t.co/iLLnxzAW20 pic.twitter.com/MKkvr1QpZh — Reuters (@Reuters) December 7, 2023 × How Fujimori got out of prison? Peru's highest court on Tuesday (Dec 6) ruled in favor of an appeal to restore a 2017 pardon for Fujimori, 85, on humanitarian grounds. The Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR) had earlier requested the move be blocked. Fujimori served around 16 years after being extradited from Chile in 2007. Fujimori's family's reaction Fujimori's political heiress Keiko addressed the crowd through a megaphone at the door of her home where her father is now expected to reside. Also watch | Peru: Protesters, police clash as thousands march in support of President | Latest News | WION × "Today we finally have our father home," Keiko said. "There is no hatred or resentment in my heart, but gratitude." The details of local TV footage seen by the Reuters showed a crowd of supporters cheering and pushing against Fujimori's car as it tried to leave the prison's premises on the outskirts of Lima. "It was time for this injustice against Fujimori to end, thanks to him our country is on its feet," Catalina Ponce, a Fujimori supporter waiting outside the prison, said earlier in the day. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Peru's ex-prez Alberto Fujimori released from jail without completing sentence for 1991 massacre

Christmas supplies in the UK may face significant delays due to a drastic decline in water levels in the Panama Canal. In what could dampen the mood in the festive season, cargo ships carrying Christmas supplies, including popular items like Apple's new iPhones, TVs, exercise bikes, clothes, and tree lights, are experiencing delays of up to four weeks.

Christmas supplies at risk as Panama canal suffers drought

Taiwan on Friday (Dec 8) said that China's suspected weather balloon and 12 fighter jets crossed the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait, escalating tensions one month before the scheduled presidential election to be held on the island. 
 
Taiwan, which is democratically governed and is claimed as its own territory by China, has been complaining about the Chinese military carrying out regular patrols and drills near the island for the last four years. 
 
On January 13, Taiwan will be conducting presidential and parliamentary elections and campaigning has gone into high gear, with how the relations with China will be handled by the next government being a major point of contention.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-chinas-ousted-ex-foreign-minister-qin-gang-die-reports-are-saying-this-667478">Is China's ousted ex-foreign minister Qin Gang dead? Here's what some reports suggest</a>

The defence ministry of Taiwan, while providing details of Chinese missions on Thursday (Dec 7), said that 12 fighter jets of China crossed the median line, which once was seen as an unofficial barrier between the two sides. However, now Chinese planes regularly fly over that zone. 
 
Making an unusual addition to the statement, the ministry added that around midday on Thursday a Chinese balloon was also detected 101 nautical miles (187 km) southwest of the northern Taiwanese city of Keelung, which moved eastward for nearly an hour and crossed the strait before disappearing.

<h2>Weather balloon or spy balloon?</h2>

Speaking to the reporters at the parliament, Taiwan Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said that their "initial understanding" was most likely a weather balloon and the ministry felt that it had an obligation to report this to be public. 
 
"Otherwise, if after other units or other countries have reported it, everyone will wonder why (we) did not report it. The defence ministry requires all our subordinate units to have a grasp of the enemy situation," he said.

Watch:&nbsp;China starts up world's first fourth-generation nuclear reactor which is one-of-its-kind&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-starts-up-worlds-first-fourth-generation-nuclear-reactor-which-is-one-of-its-kind-wion-667168/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

China's use of spy balloons turned into a global issue in February when one of these surveillance balloons was shot down by the United States which China had claimed to be a civilian craft which had drifted astray accidentally. 
 
Ahead of the election, Taiwan has remained on high alert for all kinds of military and political Chinese activities which Taipei sees as efforts by Beijing to interfere in the ballot to get electors to vote for candidates who will be preferred by China. 
 
The elections are being led by Vice President Lai Ching-te and running mate Hsiao Bi-khim from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, who are viewed by China as separatists.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan on Friday (Dec 8) said that China's suspected weather balloon and 12 fighter jets crossed the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait, escalating tensions one month before the scheduled presidential election to be held on the island.

Taiwan on Friday (Dec 8) said that China's suspected weather balloon and 12 fighter jets crossed the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait, escalating tensions one month before the scheduled presidential election to be held on the island. Taiwan, which is democratically governed and is claimed as its own territory by China, has been complaining about the Chinese military carrying out regular patrols and drills near the island for the last four years. On January 13, Taiwan will be conducting presidential and parliamentary elections and campaigning has gone into high gear, with how the relations with China will be handled by the next government being a major point of contention. Also Read: Is China's ousted ex-foreign minister Qin Gang dead? Here's what some reports suggest The defence ministry of Taiwan, while providing details of Chinese missions on Thursday (Dec 7), said that 12 fighter jets of China crossed the median line, which once was seen as an unofficial barrier between the two sides. However, now Chinese planes regularly fly over that zone. Making an unusual addition to the statement, the ministry added that around midday on Thursday a Chinese balloon was also detected 101 nautical miles (187 km) southwest of the northern Taiwanese city of Keelung, which moved eastward for nearly an hour and crossed the strait before disappearing. Weather balloon or spy balloon? Speaking to the reporters at the parliament, Taiwan Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said that their "initial understanding" was most likely a weather balloon and the ministry felt that it had an obligation to report this to be public. "Otherwise, if after other units or other countries have reported it, everyone will wonder why (we) did not report it. The defence ministry requires all our subordinate units to have a grasp of the enemy situation," he said. Watch: China starts up world's first fourth-generation nuclear reactor which is one-of-its-kind China's use of spy balloons turned into a global issue in February when one of these surveillance balloons was shot down by the United States which China had claimed to be a civilian craft which had drifted astray accidentally. Ahead of the election, Taiwan has remained on high alert for all kinds of military and political Chinese activities which Taipei sees as efforts by Beijing to interfere in the ballot to get electors to vote for candidates who will be preferred by China. The elections are being led by Vice President Lai Ching-te and running mate Hsiao Bi-khim from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, who are viewed by China as separatists. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese balloon, fighter jets cross the Taiwan Strait one month before elections

Toxic smog has been choking Pakistan's Lahore, known historically as a city of gardens, for weeks. In the packed paediatric emergency room of a Lahore public hospital, parents holding sick children lined up for treatment this week, part of a surge of young patients caused by the air pollution crisis in Pakistan's second most populous city.

Pakistan: Toxic smog engulfs Lahore, chokes 11 million residents | Pediatric hospitals overwhelmed

A resolution has been introduced in the US House of Representatives - it urges Pakistan to uphold democratic institutions, human rights and the rule of law.

US House resolution on Pakistn democracy, to ensure human rights & rule of law | World News | WION

China's largest Fishery Research vessel is on its first overseas mission to survey fishery resources in the Indian Ocean. According to reports China wants to change its image as a greedy consumer of global fish stock and instead acquire greater say in the Fisheries Industries' governance.

China: Largest fishery research vessel leaves for first overseas mission to Indian Ocean | WION

Juanita Castro Ruz was a Cuban-American activist and writer, and also the younger sister of Fidel and Raúl, both former presidents of Cuba, and Ramón, a prominent figure of the Cuban Revolution.

Juanita Castro Ruz was a Cuban-American activist and writer, and also the younger sister of Fidel and Raúl, both former presidents of Cuba, and Ramón, a prominent figure of the Cuban Revolution. She passed away on 4 December, 2023 in Miami at 90. Here's everything you need to know about Juanita Castro. Juanita Castro's Early Life Born in Birán near Mayarí on 6 May 1933, Juanita Castro was the fourth child of Ángel Castro y Argiz and Lina Ruz González. She had three brothers, Ramón, Fidel, and Raúl, and three sisters, Angelita, Emma, and Agustina. Castro had six other half-siblings. Juanita Castro's Political Life Juanita Castro actively participated in the Cuban revolution. In 1958, she went to the United States to raise funds to support the rebellious movement. However, she felt betrayed by the growing influence of Cuban communists in the government once the revolution was over. Initially, she supported her brothers' efforts to overthrow dictator Fulgencio Batista. However, Fidel and Raúl's government policies clashed with family interests, as after taking power in 1959, Fidel Castro became a hard-line communist and pushed those who disagreed with the government. WATCH | News anchor slams body shamer on live TV who asked if she’s pregnant, criticised her appearance In this climate, Juanita Castro, a staunch anti-communist, became a CIA double agent under the codename Donna to oppose her brothers' policies. In her book, Juanita wrote about how she collaborated with the CIA briefly after the US blew up the Bay of Pigs invasion in 1961. Juanita told the CIA agent that she didn't want the money. She did not support any violence against her brothers or others. However, she smuggled messages and documents back into Cuba inside tinned goods. The CIA communicated with her using shortwave radio. When she fled to the US, she helped find a CIA-backed non-profit organisation that worked against the Castro government. Juanita Castro's Later Life After her mother's death, she fled the island, went to the US and never saw her brothers again. In her later stages, she settled into a quiet life in Little Havana. In 1973, she opened a pharmacy, Mini Price, which she later sold to CVS Pharmacy. She became a US citizen in 1984. In 2009, she co-wrote her autobiography with Mexican journalist Antonieta Collins, The Secret History. She died in Miami, Florida, on 4 December, 2023, at 90. (With inputs from agencies)

Who was Juanita Castro, younger sister of former presidents of Cuba who worked for CIA?

The world's deepest and largest underground laboratory became operational in China, state news agency Xinhua reported on Thursday (Dec 7). The report said that the 2,400-metre-deep physics laboratory in located in southwest China's Sichuan Province.

The state agency's report stated that the Deep Underground and Ultra-low Radiation Background Facility for Frontier Physics Experiments (DURF) is located beneath Jinping Mountain in Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture.&nbsp;

The DURF has a total room capacity of 330,000 cubic metres.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-say-they-can-predict-organs-age-through-a-blood-test-667209">Scientists say they can ‘predict’ age of organs through a blood test</a>&nbsp;

The report mentioned the scientists think that the lab provides a major boost to the global search for dark matter, which is a hypothetical form of matter that appears not to interact with light or the electromagnetic field.&nbsp;

It is expected that the lab will open up new frontiers in deep-earth experiments as the extreme depth will help the scientists by blocking most cosmic rays that mess with the observation.&nbsp;

The underground laboratory has been launched after three years of extensive upgrades and expansion as it is the second phase of China Jinping Underground Laboratory, Xinhua further reported. &nbsp;

The facility started construction in December 2020 and was jointly built by Tsinghua University and Yalong River Hydropower Development Company, Ltd.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/cosmic-burger-nasa-james-webb-telescope-clicks-hamburger-in-space-667301">'Cosmic burger': NASA's James Webb telescope clicks 'hamburger' in space</a>

The facility, which is offering special testing conditions, is not available to scientists elsewhere.&nbsp;

As quoted, Yue Qian, a professor at Tsinghua University, said that the location helps DURF to be exposed to a very small amount of cosmic rays &nbsp;- one hundred-millionth of that on the Earth's surface.&nbsp;

The facility boasts advantages including ultra-low cosmic ray flux, extremely low environmental radiation, extremely low radon concentration, and ultra-clean space.&nbsp;

Notably, the first phase of the China Jinping Underground Laboratory was completed and put into use at the end of 2010, with a room capacity of about 4,000 cubic meters.&nbsp;

Several reports have stated that the facility made several scientific achievements, which have helped China's dark matter direct detection experiments.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The world's deepest and largest underground laboratory became operational in China, state news agency Xinhua reported on Thursday (Dec 7). The report said that the 2,400-metre-deep physics laboratory in located in southwest China's Sichuan Province.

The world's deepest and largest underground laboratory became operational in China, state news agency Xinhua reported on Thursday (Dec 7). The report said that the 2,400-metre-deep physics laboratory in located in southwest China's Sichuan Province. The state agency's report stated that the Deep Underground and Ultra-low Radiation Background Facility for Frontier Physics Experiments (DURF) is located beneath Jinping Mountain in Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture. The DURF has a total room capacity of 330,000 cubic metres. Also read: Scientists say they can ‘predict’ age of organs through a blood test The report mentioned the scientists think that the lab provides a major boost to the global search for dark matter, which is a hypothetical form of matter that appears not to interact with light or the electromagnetic field. It is expected that the lab will open up new frontiers in deep-earth experiments as the extreme depth will help the scientists by blocking most cosmic rays that mess with the observation. The underground laboratory has been launched after three years of extensive upgrades and expansion as it is the second phase of China Jinping Underground Laboratory, Xinhua further reported. The facility started construction in December 2020 and was jointly built by Tsinghua University and Yalong River Hydropower Development Company, Ltd. Also read: 'Cosmic burger': NASA's James Webb telescope clicks 'hamburger' in space The facility, which is offering special testing conditions, is not available to scientists elsewhere. As quoted, Yue Qian, a professor at Tsinghua University, said that the location helps DURF to be exposed to a very small amount of cosmic rays - one hundred-millionth of that on the Earth's surface. The facility boasts advantages including ultra-low cosmic ray flux, extremely low environmental radiation, extremely low radon concentration, and ultra-clean space. Notably, the first phase of the China Jinping Underground Laboratory was completed and put into use at the end of 2010, with a room capacity of about 4,000 cubic meters. Several reports have stated that the facility made several scientific achievements, which have helped China's dark matter direct detection experiments. (With inputs from agencies)

China launches deepest lab on Earth, it is more than 2,000m below ground. What is it looking for?

The White House on Thursday (Dec 7) urged India to hold accountable those behind the alleged plot to kill a Sikh separatist leader, which the US claims to have thwarted, even as it called New Delhi a strategic partner.

“India is a strategic partner. We’re deepening that strategic partnership. They’re a member of the Quad in the Pacific. We participate with them on a range of issues and we want to see that continue unabated. That said, at the same time, we certainly recognise the seriousness of these allegations,” National Security spokesperson John Kirby told reporters at a White House news conference.

Kirby's was asked about the impact that the alleged foiled plot to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun would have on bilateral ties.

“We want it fully investigated and those responsible to be held properly accountable,” he said.

“It’s under active investigation. We’ve said that we’re glad that our Indian counterparts are taking it seriously and doing that. We want those responsible for these attacks to be held fully accountable, but I won’t get ahead of an investigation that isn’t complete,” Kirby added.

Earlier, White House deputy national security adviser Jon Finer led a US delegation to India's capital New Delhi where he discussed forming an investigative panel to probe the murder plot against Pannun, the leader of the banned Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) outfit.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-holds-telephonic-discussion-with-netanyahu-emphasizes-on-critical-need-to-safeguard-civilians-667387">Biden underlines 'critical need to protect civilians' in call with Netanyahu</a>

"Mr Finer acknowledged India's establishment of a Committee of Enquiry to investigate lethal plotting in the United States and the importance of holding accountable anyone found responsible," the White House said in a statement.

This came after New Delhi reiterated that it would be guided by the results of a high-level panel set up to probe the alleged murder plot.

'Matter of concern'

During a press conference, Arindam Bagchi, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), called the situation a "matter of concern". &nbsp;

“The nexus between organised crime, trafficking, gunrunning and extremists at an international level is a serious issue for the law enforcement agencies and organisations to consider and it is for that reason that a high-level inquiry committee has been constituted and we will be guided by its results,” said the MEA spokesperson, in response to the question about the case.&nbsp;

<h2>FBI director to visit India amid probe</h2>

The US Ambassador, Eric Garcetti during a panel discussion at the Carnegie 'Global Technology Summit' held in New Delhi, made a mention of an upcoming visit by the FBI director next week amid a US federal probe into the alleged plot to kill Pannun on American soil.

He said that India was "the number one country she (US Secretary of Treasury Janet Yellen) went to outside the United States. Four times this year. The Secretary of State (Antony Blinken) just came here for the third time. Secretary of Defence (Lloyd Austin) for the second time. The FBI director is here next week."

(With inputs from agencies)

The White House on Thursday (Dec 7) urged India to hold accountable those behind the alleged plot to kill a Sikh separatist leader, which the US claims to have thwarted, even as it called New Delhi a strategic partner.

The White House on Thursday (Dec 7) urged India to hold accountable those behind the alleged plot to kill a Sikh separatist leader, which the US claims to have thwarted, even as it called New Delhi a strategic partner. “India is a strategic partner. We’re deepening that strategic partnership. They’re a member of the Quad in the Pacific. We participate with them on a range of issues and we want to see that continue unabated. That said, at the same time, we certainly recognise the seriousness of these allegations,” National Security spokesperson John Kirby told reporters at a White House news conference. Kirby's was asked about the impact that the alleged foiled plot to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun would have on bilateral ties. “We want it fully investigated and those responsible to be held properly accountable,” he said. “It’s under active investigation. We’ve said that we’re glad that our Indian counterparts are taking it seriously and doing that. We want those responsible for these attacks to be held fully accountable, but I won’t get ahead of an investigation that isn’t complete,” Kirby added. Earlier, White House deputy national security adviser Jon Finer led a US delegation to India's capital New Delhi where he discussed forming an investigative panel to probe the murder plot against Pannun, the leader of the banned Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) outfit. Also read: Biden underlines 'critical need to protect civilians' in call with Netanyahu "Mr Finer acknowledged India's establishment of a Committee of Enquiry to investigate lethal plotting in the United States and the importance of holding accountable anyone found responsible," the White House said in a statement. This came after New Delhi reiterated that it would be guided by the results of a high-level panel set up to probe the alleged murder plot. 'Matter of concern' During a press conference, Arindam Bagchi, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), called the situation a "matter of concern". “The nexus between organised crime, trafficking, gunrunning and extremists at an international level is a serious issue for the law enforcement agencies and organisations to consider and it is for that reason that a high-level inquiry committee has been constituted and we will be guided by its results,” said the MEA spokesperson, in response to the question about the case. FBI director to visit India amid probe The US Ambassador, Eric Garcetti during a panel discussion at the Carnegie 'Global Technology Summit' held in New Delhi, made a mention of an upcoming visit by the FBI director next week amid a US federal probe into the alleged plot to kill Pannun on American soil. He said that India was "the number one country she (US Secretary of Treasury Janet Yellen) went to outside the United States. Four times this year. The Secretary of State (Antony Blinken) just came here for the third time. Secretary of Defence (Lloyd Austin) for the second time. The FBI director is here next week." (With inputs from agencies)

India a strategic partner but those behind Pannun 'murder plot' should be held accountable: White House

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