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Israeli soldiers uncovered a tunnel shaft in a school courtyard in the northern Gaza area of Beit Lahiya, the Israel Defense Forces announced on Saturday.

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A Health Ministry representative tells the Knesset Health Committee that the hostages freed from Hamas captivity were given tranquilizer pills before being handed over to the Red Cross for transfer to Israel. The drugging would have aimed to make the hostages appear calm, happy and upbeat after suffering physical abuse, deprivation and psychological terror for more than 50 days in Gaza.

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas drugged hostages, mistreated them: Israeli official

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The Russia-Ukraine war has crossed into its 651st day, and Kyiv is struggling for funds.&nbsp;As the US Congress continues to ponder over the $60 billion aid proposal by President Joe Biden, on Tuesday, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said that the funding request failure means the country would be "responsible for Ukraine's defeat".&nbsp;

<h2>What Yellen said</h2>

On Tuesday, during a trip to Mexico City, Yellen told reporters that the funding - particularly for Ukraine's general government budget suppor was "utterly essential" and that it was a pre-condition to keep International Monetary Fund (IMF) support flowing to war-torn Ukraine.

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"I've talked to members of Congress, my colleagues have. I think they understand this, that this is a dire situation and we can hold ourselves responsible for Ukraine's defeat if we don't manage to get this funding to Ukraine that's needed, and I'm including direct budget support here because that's utterly essential," said Yellen.

"Ukraine is just running out of money," she said.&nbsp;

"They’re spending more than every penny they're taking in, in tax revenue, on military salaries and defence, and they wouldn’t have any schools or hospital or first responders if not for the money we’re sending to them to support them."

This comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's chief of staff voiced a similar warning.

<h2>A 'big risk'</h2>

Also on Tuesday, Andriy Yermak said that the postponement of US assistance would create a "big risk" of Ukraine losing the war against Russia.

These remarks, as per Reuters, were some of the frankest yet by a senior Kyiv official.

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He said that if the aid is postponed, "it gives the big risk that we can be in the same position to which we're located now."

"And of course, it makes this very high possibility impossible to continually liberate and give the big risk to lose this war," he added.

<h2>Zelensky's upcoming video&nbsp;summit with G7 leaders</h2>

Just hours after he unexpectedly skipped a virtual meeting with US senators, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will join a video summit with the leaders of the G7.

The summit is slated to be held on Wednesday (Dec 6). As per chair Japan's spokesperson Hirokazu Matsuno, the meeting will see Zelensky "join the first part".

Zelensky, during the meeting with US senators, was expected to press them for the $60 billion aid package.&nbsp;

During the video meeting, the talks, as per a Reuters report citing a White House official, are expected to cover Ukraine, the Middle East, support for developing countries, and artificial intelligence.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Russia-Ukraine war has crossed into its 651st day, and Kyiv is struggling for funds. As the US Congress continues to ponder over the $60 billion aid proposal by President Joe Biden, on Tuesday, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said that the funding request failure means the country would be "responsible for Ukraine's defeat".

The Russia-Ukraine war has crossed into its 651st day, and Kyiv is struggling for funds. As the US Congress continues to ponder over the $60 billion aid proposal by President Joe Biden, on Tuesday, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said that the funding request failure means the country would be "responsible for Ukraine's defeat". What Yellen said On Tuesday, during a trip to Mexico City, Yellen told reporters that the funding - particularly for Ukraine's general government budget suppor was "utterly essential" and that it was a pre-condition to keep International Monetary Fund (IMF) support flowing to war-torn Ukraine. Also read | US says Russia rejected 'substantial' proposal to free two Americans "I've talked to members of Congress, my colleagues have. I think they understand this, that this is a dire situation and we can hold ourselves responsible for Ukraine's defeat if we don't manage to get this funding to Ukraine that's needed, and I'm including direct budget support here because that's utterly essential," said Yellen. "Ukraine is just running out of money," she said. "They’re spending more than every penny they're taking in, in tax revenue, on military salaries and defence, and they wouldn’t have any schools or hospital or first responders if not for the money we’re sending to them to support them." This comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's chief of staff voiced a similar warning. A 'big risk' Also on Tuesday, Andriy Yermak said that the postponement of US assistance would create a "big risk" of Ukraine losing the war against Russia. These remarks, as per Reuters, were some of the frankest yet by a senior Kyiv official. Also read | Russian President Vladimir Putin watches 'nuclear button' as he observes re-created explosion He said that if the aid is postponed, "it gives the big risk that we can be in the same position to which we're located now." "And of course, it makes this very high possibility impossible to continually liberate and give the big risk to lose this war," he added. Zelensky's upcoming video summit with G7 leaders Just hours after he unexpectedly skipped a virtual meeting with US senators, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will join a video summit with the leaders of the G7. The summit is slated to be held on Wednesday (Dec 6). As per chair Japan's spokesperson Hirokazu Matsuno, the meeting will see Zelensky "join the first part". Zelensky, during the meeting with US senators, was expected to press them for the $60 billion aid package. During the video meeting, the talks, as per a Reuters report citing a White House official, are expected to cover Ukraine, the Middle East, support for developing countries, and artificial intelligence. (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky to virtually meet G7 leaders as Ukraine faces 'big risk' of losing war due to delayed US aid

Climate change is real this is a statement we have heard over the years but a byproduct stemming from these conversations is of climate anxiety. The climate 'tipping point report' has some major revelations. Tune in to know more.

Climate 'Tipping Point': World is at a pivotal point, govt should act now to save planet

In the quest for cleaner energy solutions Western Tech firms are racing to transform Rare Earth refining, a critical element for billions of electronic devices. The current standard solvent extraction is both expensive and environmentally harmful.

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Unknown gunmen in Pakistan's Karachi have assassinated Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist Hanzla Adnan, who planned the 2015 attack on a BSF (Border Security Force) convoy in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir.

Udhampur attack key conspirator shot dead in Pakistan

Israel-Hamas war: 45 killed in Israeli attacks in gaza

Israel-Hamas war: Intense bombardment across Gaza since truce ended

Israel-Hamas war: 45 killed in Israeli attacks in Central Gaza's Deir Al Balah: Hamas

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden on Tuesday castigated human rights groups, women’s organizations, and the United Nations for failing to speak out about the rapes and other atrocities committed by Hamas against Israeli women.

Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu slams global silence on Hamas sexual violence against Israeli women

World leaders are discussing the future role of fossil fuels at COP28, the UN climate conference in Dubai. The world hopes to see a consensus to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-net-zero-targets-in-jeopardy-as-fossil-fuel-phase-out-plans-lag-behind-666773">formally phase out fossil fuels</a> to tackle the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-on-verge-of-crossing-major-tipping-points-might-trigger-climate-catastrophe-in-10-years-report-666744">climate crisis</a>. The global carbon dioxide emissions from burning fossil fuels are set to hit a record high this year, according to a report published on Tuesday (Dec 5).&nbsp;Where are we lacking, and what should be the world's immediate focus in addressing this issue? 
 
"Climate change is no longer a possibility; it is unfolding in front of us at this very moment," Per Heggenes, the CEO of IKEA Foundation, the philanthropic wing of the Swedish home furnishings company, told WION.&nbsp;

"Therefore, fossil fuels must be phased out; countries must stop relying on fossil fuels for their energy needs."

"Building on the lessons learned from past agreements, the international community can work collaboratively to strengthen commitments, enhance transparency, and ensure that climate goals are not only set but diligently met," Saurabh Kumar, Vice President- India of Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP)&nbsp;told WION.

"The climate crisis is not a national problem but a global challenge, and to combat climate change, we need to work together as partners," Kumar added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-as-debate-over-fossil-fuels-rages-on-at-cop28-climate-summit-global-co2-emissions-hit-new-record-666515">Explained | Global CO2 emissions due to fossil fuels hit new record. Will world leaders at COP28 act now?</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Phasing out fossil fuels: A massive challenge&nbsp;</h2>

Scientists are concerned over rising levels of carbon dioxide emissions. The UN released a draft on Tuesday (Dec 5) pertaining to the fossil fuels phase-out.&nbsp;

The draft, which could be the final agreement from COP28, proposed "an orderly and just phase-out of fossil fuels".

It would mark the first global deal 'to end the oil age' if it gets adopted at the summit.&nbsp;

But it's not that simple.&nbsp;

The proposal is expected to stir fierce debate among the nearly 200 countries attending the two-week conference as some of the nations are pressing for it, but many oil and gas producers are keen to avoid it.

Heggenes said that phasing out of fossil fuels "won't happen overnight" and we "will continue to witness energy generation from fossil fuels in the near future".&nbsp;

The IKEA Foundation CEO added: "With differentiated responsibilities, developing and under-developed countries are bound to utilise fossil fuels to meet their energy needs on the road to development."&nbsp;

However, he believes that with advances in technology and sufficient funding, it would be possible to phase out fossil fuels entirely in the coming decades.&nbsp;

He noted that according to the International Energy Agency, global renewable power capacity additions are expected to jump by a third this year.&nbsp;

"However, the pace of growth has to increase substantially if we are to meet the growing energy demands while simultaneously addressing climate change," he said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-witnessed-a-climate-disaster-almost-everyday-this-year-cyclone-michaung-is-one-more-to-that-tally-666523">Data lab |&nbsp;India saw at least one major weather event each day in 2023. Cyclone Michaung adds to the tally</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Climate 'tipping point report': 'World is at a pivotal point, govt should act now to save planet'&nbsp;

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<h2>What's the process to phase out&nbsp;fossil fuels?</h2>

With their economies partially or fully dependent on energy export revenues, bigwigs of the oil and gas industry don't want a complete shutdown on the usage of fossil fuels.

They are, in fact, talking about progress made to tackle the emissions issue as they highlighted the cutting of the greenhouse gas methane.&nbsp;

It won't be an easy task for some Western and climate-vulnerable nations to fight against fossil fuels lobbyists.&nbsp;

The registered fossil fuel lobbyists attending COP28 outnumbered the delegates from the 10 most climate-vulnerable countries combined, as per a data analyisis done by the NGO Kick Big Polluters Out, based on UN registration data.&nbsp;

Weighing in on the phasing-out process, Heggenes said it would take time and involve different actors from multiple sectors working in tandem.&nbsp;

"We would need government regulations and investment, research and development, inflow of private capital, development of infrastructure and finally, participation of the general public."

"Apart from the obvious need to scale up renewable energy production, which would require considerable investment and research, there needs to be a sense of urgency and collective responsibility across sectors," he said.&nbsp;

World leaders are discussing the future role of fossil fuels at COP28, the UN climate conference in Dubai. The world hopes to see a consensus to formally phase out fossil fuels to tackle the climate crisis.

World leaders are discussing the future role of fossil fuels at COP28, the UN climate conference in Dubai. The world hopes to see a consensus to formally phase out fossil fuels to tackle the climate crisis. The global carbon dioxide emissions from burning fossil fuels are set to hit a record high this year, according to a report published on Tuesday (Dec 5). Where are we lacking, and what should be the world's immediate focus in addressing this issue? "Climate change is no longer a possibility; it is unfolding in front of us at this very moment," Per Heggenes, the CEO of IKEA Foundation, the philanthropic wing of the Swedish home furnishings company, told WION. "Therefore, fossil fuels must be phased out; countries must stop relying on fossil fuels for their energy needs." "Building on the lessons learned from past agreements, the international community can work collaboratively to strengthen commitments, enhance transparency, and ensure that climate goals are not only set but diligently met," Saurabh Kumar, Vice President- India of Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) told WION. "The climate crisis is not a national problem but a global challenge, and to combat climate change, we need to work together as partners," Kumar added. Also read: Explained | Global CO2 emissions due to fossil fuels hit new record. Will world leaders at COP28 act now? Phasing out fossil fuels: A massive challenge Scientists are concerned over rising levels of carbon dioxide emissions. The UN released a draft on Tuesday (Dec 5) pertaining to the fossil fuels phase-out. The draft, which could be the final agreement from COP28, proposed "an orderly and just phase-out of fossil fuels". It would mark the first global deal 'to end the oil age' if it gets adopted at the summit. But it's not that simple. The proposal is expected to stir fierce debate among the nearly 200 countries attending the two-week conference as some of the nations are pressing for it, but many oil and gas producers are keen to avoid it. Heggenes said that phasing out of fossil fuels "won't happen overnight" and we "will continue to witness energy generation from fossil fuels in the near future". The IKEA Foundation CEO added: "With differentiated responsibilities, developing and under-developed countries are bound to utilise fossil fuels to meet their energy needs on the road to development." However, he believes that with advances in technology and sufficient funding, it would be possible to phase out fossil fuels entirely in the coming decades. He noted that according to the International Energy Agency, global renewable power capacity additions are expected to jump by a third this year. "However, the pace of growth has to increase substantially if we are to meet the growing energy demands while simultaneously addressing climate change," he said. Also read: Data lab | India saw at least one major weather event each day in 2023. Cyclone Michaung adds to the tally Watch: Climate 'tipping point report': 'World is at a pivotal point, govt should act now to save planet' × What's the process to phase out fossil fuels? With their economies partially or fully dependent on energy export revenues, bigwigs of the oil and gas industry don't want a complete shutdown on the usage of fossil fuels. They are, in fact, talking about progress made to tackle the emissions issue as they highlighted the cutting of the greenhouse gas methane. It won't be an easy task for some Western and climate-vulnerable nations to fight against fossil fuels lobbyists. The registered fossil fuel lobbyists attending COP28 outnumbered the delegates from the 10 most climate-vulnerable countries combined, as per a data analyisis done by the NGO Kick Big Polluters Out, based on UN registration data. Weighing in on the phasing-out process, Heggenes said it would take time and involve different actors from multiple sectors working in tandem. "We would need government regulations and investment, research and development, inflow of private capital, development of infrastructure and finally, participation of the general public." "Apart from the obvious need to scale up renewable energy production, which would require considerable investment and research, there needs to be a sense of urgency and collective responsibility across sectors," he said.

Calls rise to phase out fossil fuels, but it remains a challenge to devise a formal plan at COP28

The United Nations on Monday heard accounts of brutal sexual violence committed during the Oct 7 attack by Hamas. The meeting was organised by former Meta executive Sheryl Sandberg and was attended by several women’s rights activists, UN officials, Israeli officials and frontline workers.&nbsp;

Hamas has denied all sexual violence allegations, but many Israeli first responders and women's rights activists have shared gruesome accounts of rape and mutilation. Sandberg told the UN gathering that “silence is complicity.”

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The crowd of 800 people, including diplomats from dozens of countries, watched videos from police interviews with first responders, describing what they saw on Oct 7 and after that.&nbsp;

Speakers present at the gathering also attacked UN Women and the wider women’s rights section to investigate or condemn these crimes.

WARNING: Readers may find some of the details in this story distressing.&nbsp;

<h2>Horrifying accounts of sexual violence from Oct 7</h2>

Two first responders from Israel addressed the UN in person. Simcha Grienman, who collected victims’ remains from the sites of attacks, described a woman’s body that he found naked from the waist down, leaning over a bed.

The corpse had been booby-trapped with a live grenade, hidden in the woman’s hand, he added. Among the bodies he recovered were two people who had suffered genital mutilation, one a woman who had “nails and different objects” in her genitals, the other so badly damaged “we couldn’t even identify if it’s a man or a woman”.

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Another first responder, Shari Mendes, who prepares bodies for burial, said her team leader “saw several female soldiers who were shot in the crotch, intimate parts, vagina, or shot in the breast.”

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand described a video of a fresh bloodstain on the crotch of a teenage hostage, visible when she was dragged out of a Jeep in Gaza soon after her abduction, as evidence of sexual assault. She reiterated other speakers calling for activists to condemn Hamas.

Several videos of sexual violence have been made public by Israeli authorities from Oct 7 as captured by Hamas body camera footage, CCTV and material uploaded to social media by civilians and first responders. Testimonies of the Supernova rave attack survivors describe similar stories of women being raped before they were shot.&nbsp;

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A UN commission of inquiry investigating war crimes on both sides of the Israel-Hamas conflict has said it would focus on sexual violence by Hamas in the October 7 attacks on Israel and was about to launch an appeal for evidence, Reuters reported last week.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

The United Nations on Monday heard accounts of brutal sexual violence committed during the Oct 7 attack by Hamas. The meeting was organised by former Meta executive Sheryl Sandberg and was attended by several women’s rights activists, UN officials, Israeli officials and frontline workers.

The United Nations on Monday heard accounts of brutal sexual violence committed during the Oct 7 attack by Hamas. The meeting was organised by former Meta executive Sheryl Sandberg and was attended by several women’s rights activists, UN officials, Israeli officials and frontline workers. Hamas has denied all sexual violence allegations, but many Israeli first responders and women's rights activists have shared gruesome accounts of rape and mutilation. Sandberg told the UN gathering that “silence is complicity.” Also Read | Musk, who warned about 'threats' of AI, seeks to raise $1 billion for his chatbot The crowd of 800 people, including diplomats from dozens of countries, watched videos from police interviews with first responders, describing what they saw on Oct 7 and after that. Speakers present at the gathering also attacked UN Women and the wider women’s rights section to investigate or condemn these crimes. WARNING: Readers may find some of the details in this story distressing. Horrifying accounts of sexual violence from Oct 7 Two first responders from Israel addressed the UN in person. Simcha Grienman, who collected victims’ remains from the sites of attacks, described a woman’s body that he found naked from the waist down, leaning over a bed. The corpse had been booby-trapped with a live grenade, hidden in the woman’s hand, he added. Among the bodies he recovered were two people who had suffered genital mutilation, one a woman who had “nails and different objects” in her genitals, the other so badly damaged “we couldn’t even identify if it’s a man or a woman”. Also Read | UK: Woman killed, two injured after shooting in east London Another first responder, Shari Mendes, who prepares bodies for burial, said her team leader “saw several female soldiers who were shot in the crotch, intimate parts, vagina, or shot in the breast.” Senator Kirsten Gillibrand described a video of a fresh bloodstain on the crotch of a teenage hostage, visible when she was dragged out of a Jeep in Gaza soon after her abduction, as evidence of sexual assault. She reiterated other speakers calling for activists to condemn Hamas. Several videos of sexual violence have been made public by Israeli authorities from Oct 7 as captured by Hamas body camera footage, CCTV and material uploaded to social media by civilians and first responders. Testimonies of the Supernova rave attack survivors describe similar stories of women being raped before they were shot. Also Read | US says taking matter 'seriously' as India probes 'murder plot' against Khalistani terrorist Pannun A UN commission of inquiry investigating war crimes on both sides of the Israel-Hamas conflict has said it would focus on sexual violence by Hamas in the October 7 attacks on Israel and was about to launch an appeal for evidence, Reuters reported last week. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

UN hears shocking accounts of sexual violence by Hamas during Oct 7 attacks

The World Health Organization (WHO) called on countries to raise taxes on alcohol and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), on Tuesday (Dec 5) while noting that a majority of the countries do not incentivise healthier behaviours.&nbsp;

The recommendations were based on the United Nations health agency's study of the taxation rates which found that the average global tax rate on such “unhealthy products” was low, and hiking taxes could result in healthier populations and reduce the deaths&nbsp;they cause.&nbsp; 
 
“WHO recommends that excise tax should apply to all sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and alcoholic beverages,” said the UN agency&nbsp;in a statement. Excise taxes target specific consumer products.&nbsp;

<h2>Millions of deaths due to alcohol and SSBs</h2>

Around 2.6 million people across the world die from drinking alcohol, while more than eight million die from having an unhealthy diet, according to WHO, adding that implementing a tax on them “will reduce these deaths.”

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The UN agency also said that raising the tax will not only help reduce the consumption of these beverages but also incentivise companies to make healthier products.&nbsp;

“Taxing unhealthy products creates healthier populations. It has a positive ripple effect across society, less disease and debilitation and revenue for governments to provide public services,” said Rüdiger Krech, the UN agency’s health promotion director, in the statement.&nbsp;

“In the case of alcohol, taxes also help prevent violence and road traffic injuries,” he added.

The tax on these products would also help prevent non-communicable diseases such as cancers, diabetes and heart diseases, said the UN health agency.&nbsp;

<h2>What else did WHO find?</h2>

The report also noted that half of all countries taxing SSBs are also taxing water – not something that the WHO recommends. Around 108 countries of its 194 members impose some taxation on SSBs. Globally, excise taxes on average represent just 6.6 per cent of the price of a soda.

Additionally, at least 148 countries have applied excise taxes to alcohol at the national level. However, wine is exempted from excise taxes in at least 22 countries, most of which are in Europe, said WHO.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suspect-who-fired-flare-gun-at-officers-in-virginia-neighbourhood-presumed-dead-us-police-666747">Suspect who fired flare gun at officers in Virginia neighbourhood presumed dead: US police</a>

The tax, according to the UN agency, on the price of the most sold brand of beer is 17.2 per cent. Meanwhile, the tax on "the most sold brand of the most sold&nbsp;type of spirit" is 26 per cent.

“A significant body of research has demonstrated that people who engage in heavy episodic drinking tend to drink the cheapest available alcoholic beverages,” said the WHO.&nbsp;

The report citing a 2017 study said taxes that increase alcohol prices by 50 per cent would help avert over 21 million deaths over half a decade and generate nearly $17 trillion in additional revenues.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The World Health Organization (WHO) called on countries to raise taxes on alcohol and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), on Tuesday (Dec 5) while noting that a majority of the countries do not incentivise healthier behaviours.

The World Health Organization (WHO) called on countries to raise taxes on alcohol and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), on Tuesday (Dec 5) while noting that a majority of the countries do not incentivise healthier behaviours. The recommendations were based on the United Nations health agency's study of the taxation rates which found that the average global tax rate on such “unhealthy products” was low, and hiking taxes could result in healthier populations and reduce the deaths they cause. “WHO recommends that excise tax should apply to all sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and alcoholic beverages,” said the UN agency in a statement. Excise taxes target specific consumer products. Millions of deaths due to alcohol and SSBs Around 2.6 million people across the world die from drinking alcohol, while more than eight million die from having an unhealthy diet, according to WHO, adding that implementing a tax on them “will reduce these deaths.” ALSO READ | 69 million children in 'rich' countries living in poverty: UNICEF The UN agency also said that raising the tax will not only help reduce the consumption of these beverages but also incentivise companies to make healthier products. “Taxing unhealthy products creates healthier populations. It has a positive ripple effect across society, less disease and debilitation and revenue for governments to provide public services,” said Rüdiger Krech, the UN agency’s health promotion director, in the statement. “In the case of alcohol, taxes also help prevent violence and road traffic injuries,” he added. The tax on these products would also help prevent non-communicable diseases such as cancers, diabetes and heart diseases, said the UN health agency. What else did WHO find? The report also noted that half of all countries taxing SSBs are also taxing water – not something that the WHO recommends. Around 108 countries of its 194 members impose some taxation on SSBs. Globally, excise taxes on average represent just 6.6 per cent of the price of a soda. Additionally, at least 148 countries have applied excise taxes to alcohol at the national level. However, wine is exempted from excise taxes in at least 22 countries, most of which are in Europe, said WHO. ALSO READ | Suspect who fired flare gun at officers in Virginia neighbourhood presumed dead: US police The tax, according to the UN agency, on the price of the most sold brand of beer is 17.2 per cent. Meanwhile, the tax on "the most sold brand of the most sold type of spirit" is 26 per cent. “A significant body of research has demonstrated that people who engage in heavy episodic drinking tend to drink the cheapest available alcoholic beverages,” said the WHO. The report citing a 2017 study said taxes that increase alcohol prices by 50 per cent would help avert over 21 million deaths over half a decade and generate nearly $17 trillion in additional revenues. (With inputs from agencies)

WHO calls for higher taxes on alcohol and sugary drinks. Here's why

Climate 'tipping point report': 'World is at a pivotal point, govt should act now to save planet'

Russian President Vladimir Putin toured an exhibition of Russian achievements reportedly on Monday (Dec 4). He was shown a simulation of the "nuclear button", but&nbsp;declined to press it.&nbsp;

Putin also watched a recreated nuclear explosion at a Cold War bunker as nuclear war threat continues to loom amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Russia has already approved a bill revoking the ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT).&nbsp;

Russia has threatened the world by resuming atomic bomb testing after its upper house Federation Council unanimously approved the bill to abandon the landmark agreement outlawing nuclear weapons tests.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ending-us-aid-for-ukraine-would-allow-putin-to-prevail-warns-white-house-666210">Ending US aid for Ukraine would allow Putin to prevail, warns White House</a>&nbsp;

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Image: Vladimir Putin, accompanied by Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev, Director of the exhibition Natalya Virtuozova and other officials, listens to explanations at the "Russia" forum and exhibition celebrating the country's major achievements in Moscow, Russia, December 4, 2023. Credit: Reuters.&nbsp;

During the exhibition, Putin was given an explanation of a Soviet nuclear bomb design. As mentioned, he observed a mock control panel for launching a nuclear test. He also saw images of a blast and mushroom cloud. &nbsp;

Editor of "Strana Rosatom" (Rosatom country) TV show Mikhail Polunin guiding Putin along the exhibition about the Soviet nuclear programme, saying (in Russian): "Here we have something like (Soviet leader Joseph) Stalin's office. And that's where we start telling the story about the summer after WWII. It's 1945, and the parade on Red Square in Moscow takes place on June 24."&nbsp;

As translated by the news agency Reuters, Polunin showing an exhibition to Putin further said: "When he (US&nbsp;President Harry Truman) met (nuclear physicist and inventor of American atomic bomb Robert) Oppenheimer, he asked him, when the Russians will have a bomb. Oppenheimer said he didn't know."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-calls-for-north-korean-women-to-have-more-children-to-halt-fall-in-birthrate-666244">Kim Jong Un calls for North Korean women to have more children to halt fall in birthrate</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;White House raises alarm on Ukraine funding&nbsp;

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<h2>Nuke fears loom&nbsp;</h2>

During the course of Ukraine's war, which started last year on February 24, Putin has often warned the West by saying that Russia would retaliate if anyone tried to launch a nuclear attack against it.&nbsp;

The tensions escalated after Putin deployed tactical nuclear missiles in Belarus and shifted Russia's stance on two major arms treaties. Moscow has insisted that it is not recklessly "brandishing" atomic weapons or changing its doctrine on their use.&nbsp;

This tour also came ahead of a re-election campaign as Putin is expected this month to confirm that he will run for another six-year term in March.&nbsp;

As seen in the videos released by local outlets, Putin was with a group of schoolchildren writing a message on a giant whiteboard about his hopes for their future.&nbsp;

He was also seen selecting from among wishes that children had pinned to a Christmas tree in the hope he could make them come true.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin toured an exhibition of Russian achievements reportedly on Monday (Dec 4). He was shown a simulation of the "nuclear button", but declined to press it.

Russian President Vladimir Putin toured an exhibition of Russian achievements reportedly on Monday (Dec 4). He was shown a simulation of the "nuclear button", but declined to press it. Putin also watched a recreated nuclear explosion at a Cold War bunker as nuclear war threat continues to loom amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Russia has already approved a bill revoking the ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT). Russia has threatened the world by resuming atomic bomb testing after its upper house Federation Council unanimously approved the bill to abandon the landmark agreement outlawing nuclear weapons tests. Also read: Ending US aid for Ukraine would allow Putin to prevail, warns White House Image: Vladimir Putin, accompanied by Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev, Director of the exhibition Natalya Virtuozova and other officials, listens to explanations at the "Russia" forum and exhibition celebrating the country's major achievements in Moscow, Russia, December 4, 2023. Credit: Reuters. During the exhibition, Putin was given an explanation of a Soviet nuclear bomb design. As mentioned, he observed a mock control panel for launching a nuclear test. He also saw images of a blast and mushroom cloud. Editor of "Strana Rosatom" (Rosatom country) TV show Mikhail Polunin guiding Putin along the exhibition about the Soviet nuclear programme, saying (in Russian): "Here we have something like (Soviet leader Joseph) Stalin's office. And that's where we start telling the story about the summer after WWII. It's 1945, and the parade on Red Square in Moscow takes place on June 24." As translated by the news agency Reuters, Polunin showing an exhibition to Putin further said: "When he (US President Harry Truman) met (nuclear physicist and inventor of American atomic bomb Robert) Oppenheimer, he asked him, when the Russians will have a bomb. Oppenheimer said he didn't know." Also read: Kim Jong Un calls for North Korean women to have more children to halt fall in birthrate Watch: White House raises alarm on Ukraine funding × Nuke fears loom During the course of Ukraine's war, which started last year on February 24, Putin has often warned the West by saying that Russia would retaliate if anyone tried to launch a nuclear attack against it. The tensions escalated after Putin deployed tactical nuclear missiles in Belarus and shifted Russia's stance on two major arms treaties. Moscow has insisted that it is not recklessly "brandishing" atomic weapons or changing its doctrine on their use. This tour also came ahead of a re-election campaign as Putin is expected this month to confirm that he will run for another six-year term in March. As seen in the videos released by local outlets, Putin was with a group of schoolchildren writing a message on a giant whiteboard about his hopes for their future. He was also seen selecting from among wishes that children had pinned to a Christmas tree in the hope he could make them come true. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin watches 'nuclear button' as he observes re-created explosion

A warning has come from a top US law enforcement official FBI Director Christopher Wray has urged the United States Congress to renew the country's spy program to ensure Public Safety.

FBI Chief Christopher Wray warns of terror threats to America, calls for renewal of spy program

The United States said Tuesday that Russia rejected a new proposal to free two detained Americans, Wall Street Journal correspondent Evan Gershkovich and former Marine Paul Whelan.

"We have made a number of proposals, including a substantial one in recent weeks," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters.&nbsp;

"That proposal was rejected by Russia," he said.

Miller said that Secretary of State Antony Blinken and President Joe Biden would keep trying to find a way to free the pair, considered "wrongfully detained" by the State Department.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-court-extends-detention-of-us-reporter-evan-gershkovich-until-end-of-january-663801">Russian court extends detention of US reporter Evan Gershkovich until end of January</a>

"They never should have been arrested in the first place. They should vote be released immediately," Miller said.

"There is no prior higher priority for the secretary of state. There is no higher priority for the president."

He declined to give further details on the proposal, including whether Russians could be released.

The United States, despite a sharp deterioration of ties since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, has arranged two prisoner swaps -- including one that freed basketball star Brittney Griner, who was detained over traces of cannabis.

Gershkovich, 32, was arrested during a reporting trip at the end of March in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg, becoming the first Western reporter to be jailed on spying charges in Russia since the Soviet era.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-us-marine-paul-whelan-imprisoned-in-russia-assaulted-by-fellow-inmate-664136">Ex-US Marine Paul Whelan, imprisoned in Russia, assaulted by fellow inmate</a>

The reporter, his newspaper and the US government all strongly deny he was involved in espionage.

A Moscow court last week extended his detention until January.

Whelan worked in security for a US vehicle parts company when he was arrested in Moscow in 2018 and has always asserted that the evidence against him was falsified.

His family said last week that Whelan was assaulted in prison by a fellow inmate, potentially because of his nationality.

The United States said Tuesday that Russia rejected a new proposal to free two detained Americans, Wall Street Journal correspondent Evan Gershkovich and former Marine Paul Whelan.

The United States said Tuesday that Russia rejected a new proposal to free two detained Americans, Wall Street Journal correspondent Evan Gershkovich and former Marine Paul Whelan. "We have made a number of proposals, including a substantial one in recent weeks," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters. "That proposal was rejected by Russia," he said. Miller said that Secretary of State Antony Blinken and President Joe Biden would keep trying to find a way to free the pair, considered "wrongfully detained" by the State Department. ALSO READ | Russian court extends detention of US reporter Evan Gershkovich until end of January "They never should have been arrested in the first place. They should vote be released immediately," Miller said. "There is no prior higher priority for the secretary of state. There is no higher priority for the president." He declined to give further details on the proposal, including whether Russians could be released. The United States, despite a sharp deterioration of ties since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, has arranged two prisoner swaps -- including one that freed basketball star Brittney Griner, who was detained over traces of cannabis. Gershkovich, 32, was arrested during a reporting trip at the end of March in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg, becoming the first Western reporter to be jailed on spying charges in Russia since the Soviet era. ALSO READ | Ex-US Marine Paul Whelan, imprisoned in Russia, assaulted by fellow inmate The reporter, his newspaper and the US government all strongly deny he was involved in espionage. A Moscow court last week extended his detention until January. Whelan worked in security for a US vehicle parts company when he was arrested in Moscow in 2018 and has always asserted that the evidence against him was falsified. His family said last week that Whelan was assaulted in prison by a fellow inmate, potentially because of his nationality.

US says Russia rejected 'substantial' proposal to free two Americans

Brenda Lee's "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" has topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the first time since it was released in 1958. The holiday classic outperformed familiar chart-topper Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You," which came in at No. 2.

Brenda Lee's "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree' tops Billboard Hot 100 chart

Washington's biggest Hanukkah shindig is known to be the biggest and the booziest celebration ever. Bringing together Jewish people over hot potato latkes, a vodka bar and Israeli-style sufganyot, or jelly-filled doughnuts for the past 28 years, the massive party is hosted by DC publicist Steve Rabinowitz.

However, this year the coveted invite-only&nbsp;celebration of the eight-day festival of lights has been cancelled, and it's not the only one. The reason? Israel-Hamas war.

<h2>Toned down, cancelled Hanukkah celebrations&nbsp;</h2>

In Virginia, as per ABC News, a menorah lighting at a Virginian art and music festival was reportedly cancelled over apparent concerns related to the ongoing war in the Middle East. Talking to the Gazette, Shirley Vermillion, the festival's founder, said the menorah lighting "seemed very inappropriate" given the conflict.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-officials-believe-israel-to-end-ground-operation-in-gaza-by-january-report-666718">US officials believe Israel will end ground operations in southern Gaza by January: Report</a>

The event was scheduled for a monthly art and musical festival happening on December 10.

At the same time, the White House is yet to announce if and how it will celebrate the eight-day festival.

Across the US, there is an uptick in the number of Hanukkah events getting cancelled. Some escaped cancellation, but have been toned down.

<h2>White House reacts</h2>

Speaking during a news briefing, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that "every action" had been taken in an apparent attempt to help make the Jewish community feel safe.

"We have seen an uptick in hate, just more broadly, in different communities—obviously, also in the Muslim community. And so, we will do everything that we can to make sure that these communities feel safe," she added.

"Obviously, over the past couple of weeks since this—certainly since this war started, we have seen the increase of antisemitism. You know, we understand the fear that people in the Jewish community must be feeling right now, which is why we have taken action to do everything that we can to make sure that people in that community feel protected. And so, that's what we're going to continue to do."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/69-million-children-in-rich-countries-living-in-poverty-unicef-666670">69 million children in 'rich' countries living in poverty: UNICEF</a>

<h2>Backlash</h2>

The cancellations have triggered a backlash.

Reacting to the news of cancellation at the music festival, Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin said: "Singling out the Jewish community by cancelling this Hanukkah celebration is absurd and antisemitic. The event organisers should immediately reconsider their actions and move forward with the menorah lighting."

In a post on X, former Virginia House Speaker Eileen Filler-Corn, a Democrat, also echoed similar sentiments. She said: "Cancelling the menorah lighting ceremony and holding Jewish people responsible for the ongoing conflict in the Middle East is shocking and outrageous. This type of hate has no place in Virginia."

Washington's biggest Hanukkah shindig is known to be the biggest and the booziest celebration ever. Bringing together Jewish people over hot potato latkes, a vodka bar and Israeli-style sufganyot, or jelly-filled doughnuts for the past 28 years, the massive party is hosted by DC publicist Steve Rabinowitz.

Washington's biggest Hanukkah shindig is known to be the biggest and the booziest celebration ever. Bringing together Jewish people over hot potato latkes, a vodka bar and Israeli-style sufganyot, or jelly-filled doughnuts for the past 28 years, the massive party is hosted by DC publicist Steve Rabinowitz. However, this year the coveted invite-only celebration of the eight-day festival of lights has been cancelled, and it's not the only one. The reason? Israel-Hamas war. Toned down, cancelled Hanukkah celebrations In Virginia, as per ABC News, a menorah lighting at a Virginian art and music festival was reportedly cancelled over apparent concerns related to the ongoing war in the Middle East. Talking to the Gazette, Shirley Vermillion, the festival's founder, said the menorah lighting "seemed very inappropriate" given the conflict. Also read | US officials believe Israel will end ground operations in southern Gaza by January: Report The event was scheduled for a monthly art and musical festival happening on December 10. At the same time, the White House is yet to announce if and how it will celebrate the eight-day festival. Across the US, there is an uptick in the number of Hanukkah events getting cancelled. Some escaped cancellation, but have been toned down. White House reacts Speaking during a news briefing, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that "every action" had been taken in an apparent attempt to help make the Jewish community feel safe. "We have seen an uptick in hate, just more broadly, in different communities—obviously, also in the Muslim community. And so, we will do everything that we can to make sure that these communities feel safe," she added. "Obviously, over the past couple of weeks since this—certainly since this war started, we have seen the increase of antisemitism. You know, we understand the fear that people in the Jewish community must be feeling right now, which is why we have taken action to do everything that we can to make sure that people in that community feel protected. And so, that's what we're going to continue to do." Also read | 69 million children in 'rich' countries living in poverty: UNICEF Backlash The cancellations have triggered a backlash. Reacting to the news of cancellation at the music festival, Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin said: "Singling out the Jewish community by cancelling this Hanukkah celebration is absurd and antisemitic. The event organisers should immediately reconsider their actions and move forward with the menorah lighting." In a post on X, former Virginia House Speaker Eileen Filler-Corn, a Democrat, also echoed similar sentiments. She said: "Cancelling the menorah lighting ceremony and holding Jewish people responsible for the ongoing conflict in the Middle East is shocking and outrageous. This type of hate has no place in Virginia."

Hanukkah events toned down or scrapped across US in wake of Israel-Hamas war

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (Dec 5) said that in his meeting with hostages that were released by Hamas during a week-long truce between the warring sides, he had heard stories of sexual abuse. He also called out the women's and human rights organisations to take stern action against the Palestinian militant group.

He further expressed his disappointment over the absence of outrage from human rights organisations on the matter.

"Today, along with the cabinet members, I met with the families of the hostages. Those who we have returned home and those who we are trying to bring back home. I heard stories that broke my heart, I heard about the thirst and hunger, about physical and mental abuse, about the little witnesses that are still whispering from fear, about the darkness the loved ones still live under. I heard and you also heard, about sexual assault and cases of brutal rape, unlike anything. But I must say that just until a few days I didn't hear human rights organizations and women's rights organizations I didn't hear women's organisations in the UN&nbsp;I didn't hear their outrage," Netanyahu said.

"I say to the women's rights organisations, to the human rights organisations, you've heard of the rape of Israeli women, horrible atrocities, sexual mutilation, where the hell are you, I expect all civilized leaders, governments, nations, to speak up against these atrocities," he added.

He then mentioned that the ground offensive in Gaza had expanded to the south of the Gaza Strip and that "there is no place beyond our reach."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-not-sure-if-hed-be-seeking-reelection-next-year-if-not-for-rival-trump-666650">Biden says 'not sure' if he'd be seeking reelection next year if not for Trump</a>

"Our fighters are expanding the ground operation against Hamas in every place in the strip, including the south of the strip, tonight we operated there with massive force, the earth shook in Khan Younis, the earth shook in Jabalia, we besieged both of them," he said.

<h2>Biden urges global condemnation of sexual violence committed by Hamas</h2>

United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday called for global condemnation of "horrific" sexual violence committed by the Palestinian militant group.

"The world can't just look away at what’s going on," Biden said at a campaign event in Boston.

"It’s on all of us -- government, international organisations, civil society and businesses -- to forcefully condemn the sexual violence of Hamas terrorists without equivocation."

He then mentioned the reports of Hamas using "rape to terrorise women and girls" during the attacks it launched against Israel last month.

"Over the past few weeks, survivors and witnesses of the attacks have shared the horrific accounts of unimaginable cruelty," including rape, mutilation and the desecration of bodies, he said.

"Hamas terrorists inflicting as much pain and suffering on women and girls as possible and then murdering them -- It is appalling."

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (Dec 5) said that in his meeting with hostages that were released by Hamas during a week-long truce between the warring sides, he had heard stories of sexual abuse.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (Dec 5) said that in his meeting with hostages that were released by Hamas during a week-long truce between the warring sides, he had heard stories of sexual abuse. He also called out the women's and human rights organisations to take stern action against the Palestinian militant group. He further expressed his disappointment over the absence of outrage from human rights organisations on the matter. "Today, along with the cabinet members, I met with the families of the hostages. Those who we have returned home and those who we are trying to bring back home. I heard stories that broke my heart, I heard about the thirst and hunger, about physical and mental abuse, about the little witnesses that are still whispering from fear, about the darkness the loved ones still live under. I heard and you also heard, about sexual assault and cases of brutal rape, unlike anything. But I must say that just until a few days I didn't hear human rights organizations and women's rights organizations I didn't hear women's organisations in the UN I didn't hear their outrage," Netanyahu said. "I say to the women's rights organisations, to the human rights organisations, you've heard of the rape of Israeli women, horrible atrocities, sexual mutilation, where the hell are you, I expect all civilized leaders, governments, nations, to speak up against these atrocities," he added. He then mentioned that the ground offensive in Gaza had expanded to the south of the Gaza Strip and that "there is no place beyond our reach." Also read: Biden says 'not sure' if he'd be seeking reelection next year if not for Trump "Our fighters are expanding the ground operation against Hamas in every place in the strip, including the south of the strip, tonight we operated there with massive force, the earth shook in Khan Younis, the earth shook in Jabalia, we besieged both of them," he said. Biden urges global condemnation of sexual violence committed by Hamas United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday called for global condemnation of "horrific" sexual violence committed by the Palestinian militant group. "The world can't just look away at what’s going on," Biden said at a campaign event in Boston. "It’s on all of us -- government, international organisations, civil society and businesses -- to forcefully condemn the sexual violence of Hamas terrorists without equivocation." He then mentioned the reports of Hamas using "rape to terrorise women and girls" during the attacks it launched against Israel last month. "Over the past few weeks, survivors and witnesses of the attacks have shared the horrific accounts of unimaginable cruelty," including rape, mutilation and the desecration of bodies, he said. "Hamas terrorists inflicting as much pain and suffering on women and girls as possible and then murdering them -- It is appalling." (With inputs from agencies)

Where the hell are you? Netanyahu fumes over women's rights groups' silence on sexual violence by Hamas

US Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday (Dec 5) created history by casting the most tiebreaking votes in the Senate, a first in nearly&nbsp;200 years.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, called Harris’ 32nd tiebreaking vote a “great milestone.”

“Today is historic. Vice President Harris has just cast her 32nd tie-breaking vote, the most tie-breakers ever. I join all of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle thanking the Vice President for her leadership, and for making the work of the Senate possible,” Schumer said, according to CNN reports.

“Without her tie-breaking votes, there would be no American Rescue Plan, no Inflation Reduction Act, and we would not have confirmed many of the excellent judges now presiding on the bench. Every time duty is called, Vice President Harris has answered, more than any other Vice President in our nation’s long history,” he further added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-signs-new-treaty-with-rwanda-to-send-illegal-migrants-to-african-country-666573">UK signs new treaty with Rwanda to send illegal migrants to the African nation</a>

Schumer presented Harris with a golden gavel after which the vice president said that she was “truly honoured.”&nbsp;

With the 32nd voting, that was done to break the tie on judicial nomination, Harris broke John Calhoun's record which was set at 31 tie-breakers.&nbsp;

The voting came on the nomination of Loren Alikhan to be a US District Judge for the District of Columbia.

Among the main constitutional duties of vice presidents in the United States is casting tiebreaker votes and Harris has been frequently called on to break the gridlocks as the Senate is closely split between Democrats and Republicans.

The pace at which Harris cast the votes plunged in 2023 when Democrats extended their narrow majority by a single seat. However, she still managed to beat John Calhoun’s record in less than half the time that he took to set it.

As per Senate records, her vote on Tuesday&nbsp;put the United States at 300 tie breaks since 1789.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday (Dec 5) created history by casting the most tiebreaking votes in the Senate, a first in nearly 200 years. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, called Harris’ 32nd tiebreaking vote a “great milestone.

US Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday (Dec 5) created history by casting the most tiebreaking votes in the Senate, a first in nearly 200 years. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, called Harris’ 32nd tiebreaking vote a “great milestone.” “Today is historic. Vice President Harris has just cast her 32nd tie-breaking vote, the most tie-breakers ever. I join all of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle thanking the Vice President for her leadership, and for making the work of the Senate possible,” Schumer said, according to CNN reports. “Without her tie-breaking votes, there would be no American Rescue Plan, no Inflation Reduction Act, and we would not have confirmed many of the excellent judges now presiding on the bench. Every time duty is called, Vice President Harris has answered, more than any other Vice President in our nation’s long history,” he further added. Also read: UK signs new treaty with Rwanda to send illegal migrants to the African nation Schumer presented Harris with a golden gavel after which the vice president said that she was “truly honoured.” With the 32nd voting, that was done to break the tie on judicial nomination, Harris broke John Calhoun's record which was set at 31 tie-breakers. The voting came on the nomination of Loren Alikhan to be a US District Judge for the District of Columbia. Among the main constitutional duties of vice presidents in the United States is casting tiebreaker votes and Harris has been frequently called on to break the gridlocks as the Senate is closely split between Democrats and Republicans. The pace at which Harris cast the votes plunged in 2023 when Democrats extended their narrow majority by a single seat. However, she still managed to beat John Calhoun’s record in less than half the time that he took to set it. As per Senate records, her vote on Tuesday put the United States at 300 tie breaks since 1789. (With inputs from agencies)

US Vice President Kamala Harris breaks 200-year-old record for most tie-breaking Senate votes

United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday (Dec 5) said he may have skipped next year's re-election bid had it not been for facing his rival Donald Trump, stating that the Republican posed a rare threat to the country.&nbsp;

"If Trump wasn't running, I'm not sure I'd be running. But we cannot let him win," the 81-year-old Democrat told a 2024 election campaign fundraiser in Weston, Massachusetts.

He then appreciated former Republican lawmaker Liz Cheney for standing up against Trump, who on Sunday (Dec 3) had warned that the United States would be "sleepwalking into dictatorship" if the twice-impeached former president resumes power.

During the event, he also highlighted Atlantic magazine recapitulating what it stated were the dangers posed by Trump's second term, one of three major US media outlets to issue similar warnings in recent days along with the Washington Post and New York Times.&nbsp;

Earlier, during a fundraiser in Boston, Biden had mentioned Trump's usage of harsh words during his campaign trail, which also included an instance where he called his opponents "vermin".&nbsp;

Biden said that his extreme language demonstrated the intense vocabulary used in Germany during the 1930s when Adolf Hitler's Nazis were on the rise.

"Trump's not even hiding the ball anymore. He's telling us what he's going to do," Biden said. "He's making no bones about it."

Biden's comments came after Democratic supporters repeatedly expressed concerns over his age after he turned 81 years old last month.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-kamala-harris-breaks-record-for-most-tie-breaking-senate-votes-666636">US Vice President Kamala Harris breaks record for most tie-breaking Senate votes</a>

The Democrat, who beat Trump in the 2020 presidential elections, the results of which Trump refuses to accept to date, has repeatedly portrayed himself as defending American democracy in next year's vote.

"I don’t think anyone doubts our democracy is at risk again," Biden said earlier on Tuesday.

However, despite facing several criminal trials, including that of election subversion, Trump is slightly ahead in the opinion polls.

"Joe Biden is the real dictator," Trump responded in a post on his conservative Truth Social network on Tuesday.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday (Dec 5) said he may have skipped next year's re-election bid had it not been for facing his rival Donald Trump, stating that the Republican posed a rare threat to the country.

United States President Joe Biden on Tuesday (Dec 5) said he may have skipped next year's re-election bid had it not been for facing his rival Donald Trump, stating that the Republican posed a rare threat to the country. "If Trump wasn't running, I'm not sure I'd be running. But we cannot let him win," the 81-year-old Democrat told a 2024 election campaign fundraiser in Weston, Massachusetts. He then appreciated former Republican lawmaker Liz Cheney for standing up against Trump, who on Sunday (Dec 3) had warned that the United States would be "sleepwalking into dictatorship" if the twice-impeached former president resumes power. During the event, he also highlighted Atlantic magazine recapitulating what it stated were the dangers posed by Trump's second term, one of three major US media outlets to issue similar warnings in recent days along with the Washington Post and New York Times. Earlier, during a fundraiser in Boston, Biden had mentioned Trump's usage of harsh words during his campaign trail, which also included an instance where he called his opponents "vermin". Biden said that his extreme language demonstrated the intense vocabulary used in Germany during the 1930s when Adolf Hitler's Nazis were on the rise. "Trump's not even hiding the ball anymore. He's telling us what he's going to do," Biden said. "He's making no bones about it." Biden's comments came after Democratic supporters repeatedly expressed concerns over his age after he turned 81 years old last month. Also read: US Vice President Kamala Harris breaks record for most tie-breaking Senate votes The Democrat, who beat Trump in the 2020 presidential elections, the results of which Trump refuses to accept to date, has repeatedly portrayed himself as defending American democracy in next year's vote. "I don’t think anyone doubts our democracy is at risk again," Biden said earlier on Tuesday. However, despite facing several criminal trials, including that of election subversion, Trump is slightly ahead in the opinion polls. "Joe Biden is the real dictator," Trump responded in a post on his conservative Truth Social network on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden says 'not sure' if he'd be seeking re-election next year if Trump wasn't his rival

US State Department spokesperson Mathew Miller, while speaking about an Indian citizen's indictment in an alleged foiled assassination plot, on Tuesday (Dec 5) said that the country takes the matter 'very seriously', adding that an investigation has been launched by India into the matter and they are waiting for the findings from the probe. 
 
"I said I wouldn't comment on the underlying substance because it is an ongoing law enforcement matter and it would be inappropriate for me to do so when DOJ (US Department of Justice) is presenting a case in court. I also made clear that we have noted at the most senior levels of this government, the Secretary of State has raised this directly with his foreign counterpart that we take this issue very seriously," said Miller, while speaking at a media briefing in Washington DC on Tuesday. 
 
"They told us they would conduct an investigation. They have publicly announced an investigation and now we'll wait to see the results of the investigation. It's something we take very seriously," he said. 
 
The statement by Miller comes at a time when an indictment has been unsealed by the US Justice Department against an Indian national who has been accused of allegedly being involved in a foiled plan to assassinate a leader of the Sikh Separatist Movement, who is based in the US and is a citizen in New York. It is believed that the target of the foiled assassination plot was&nbsp;Khalistani terrorist and leader of the banned Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) outfit Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-charges-indian-national-with-conspiracy-to-assassinate-sikh-separatist-664387">US charges Indian national with conspiracy to assassinate Khalistani separatist Pannun</a>

The Justice Department said that an Indian national named Nikhil Gupta was working for an Indian government employee (whose identification has not been revealed in the indictment filed in a federal court in Manhattan) and was given the task of hiring a hitman for carrying out the assassination which was foiled by the authorities in the US authorities. 
 
While wrapping up his high-profile visit to India, the White House stated that Finer "acknowledged" the establishment of a committee of enquiry by India for investigating the "lethal plotting" and emphasised the need for holding the people responsible accountable. 
 
"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," said the White House&nbsp;in a readout while speaking about his meetings in the national capital.

<h2>India calls indictment a “matter of concern”</h2>

India's Ministry of External Affairs, reacting to the indictment filed by the Justice Department, called it a "matter of concern" and said that it is contrary to government policy.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: 'Go home Indian': Sikh man faces racism in Australia

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-go-home-indian-sikh-man-faces-racism-in-australia-659855/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We cannot share any further information on such security matters. As regards the case against an individual that has been filed in a US court allegedly linking him to an Indian official, this is a matter of concern. We have said and let me reiterate that this is contrary to government policy,” said Arindam Bagchi, MEA spokesperson. 
 
"The nexus between organised crime, trafficking and gun running and extremists at an international level is a serious issue for law enforcement agencies and organisations to consider and it is precisely for that reason that a high-level committee has been constituted and we will, obviously, be guided by its results," the spokesperson said.

(With inputs from agencies)

US State Department spokesperson Mathew Miller, while speaking about an Indian citizen's indictment in an alleged foiled assassination plot, on Tuesday (Dec 5) said that the country takes the matter 'very seriously', adding that an investigation has been launched by India into the matter and they are waiting for the findings from the probe.

US State Department spokesperson Mathew Miller, while speaking about an Indian citizen's indictment in an alleged foiled assassination plot, on Tuesday (Dec 5) said that the country takes the matter 'very seriously', adding that an investigation has been launched by India into the matter and they are waiting for the findings from the probe. "I said I wouldn't comment on the underlying substance because it is an ongoing law enforcement matter and it would be inappropriate for me to do so when DOJ (US Department of Justice) is presenting a case in court. I also made clear that we have noted at the most senior levels of this government, the Secretary of State has raised this directly with his foreign counterpart that we take this issue very seriously," said Miller, while speaking at a media briefing in Washington DC on Tuesday. "They told us they would conduct an investigation. They have publicly announced an investigation and now we'll wait to see the results of the investigation. It's something we take very seriously," he said. The statement by Miller comes at a time when an indictment has been unsealed by the US Justice Department against an Indian national who has been accused of allegedly being involved in a foiled plan to assassinate a leader of the Sikh Separatist Movement, who is based in the US and is a citizen in New York. It is believed that the target of the foiled assassination plot was Khalistani terrorist and leader of the banned Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) outfit Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Also read: US charges Indian national with conspiracy to assassinate Khalistani separatist Pannun The Justice Department said that an Indian national named Nikhil Gupta was working for an Indian government employee (whose identification has not been revealed in the indictment filed in a federal court in Manhattan) and was given the task of hiring a hitman for carrying out the assassination which was foiled by the authorities in the US authorities. While wrapping up his high-profile visit to India, the White House stated that Finer "acknowledged" the establishment of a committee of enquiry by India for investigating the "lethal plotting" and emphasised the need for holding the people responsible accountable. "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," said the White House in a readout while speaking about his meetings in the national capital. India calls indictment a “matter of concern” India's Ministry of External Affairs, reacting to the indictment filed by the Justice Department, called it a "matter of concern" and said that it is contrary to government policy. Watch: Gravitas: 'Go home Indian': Sikh man faces racism in Australia "We cannot share any further information on such security matters. As regards the case against an individual that has been filed in a US court allegedly linking him to an Indian official, this is a matter of concern. We have said and let me reiterate that this is contrary to government policy,” said Arindam Bagchi, MEA spokesperson. "The nexus between organised crime, trafficking and gun running and extremists at an international level is a serious issue for law enforcement agencies and organisations to consider and it is precisely for that reason that a high-level committee has been constituted and we will, obviously, be guided by its results," the spokesperson said. (With inputs from agencies)

US says taking matter 'seriously' as India probes 'murder plot' against Khalistani terrorist Pannun

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US says taking matter 'seriously' as India probes 'murder plot' against Khalistani terrorist Pannun