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Tatiana Schlossberg, an American environmental journalist and granddaughter of the late US President John F Kennedy, has died after battling a rare and aggressive form of leukemia, at age 35. Her family announced her death in a statement posted on the John F Kennedy Library Foundation’s Instagram account on Tuesday (Dec 30). Doctors detected the condition after finding an unusually high white blood cell count following the birth of her second child in May 2024. The illness is mostly seen in older patients and among first responders to the 9/11 attacks in New York. Schlossberg wrote about her diagnosis with acute myeloid leukemia in a November essay for The New Yorker. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump attacked Kennedy family, hours after Schlossberg's death.&nbsp;Notably, in her essay about her diagnosis, Schlossberg was deeply critical of her relative Robert F. Kennedy Jr, now the US health secretary. She noted he has curtailed access to vaccines and slashed government medical research spending. “I watched from my hospital bed as Bobby, in the face of logic and common sense, was confirmed for the position, despite never having worked in medicine, public health, or the government,” she wrote.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-not-possibly-be-my-life-jfk-s-granddaughter-tatiana-schlossberg-announces-terminal-cancer-diagnosis-1763901536160">'Not possibly be my life...': JFK's granddaughter Tatiana Schlossberg announces terminal cancer diagnosis</a><h2>Trump attacks Kennedy family</h2>US President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to share posts mocking the Kennedy&nbsp;family hours after Tatiana Schlossberg's death. Trump did not directly mention Tatiana's death but shared screenshots of MAGA supporters mocking the famous political family. His comments came days after White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt&nbsp;<a href="https://people.com/kennedy-center-renamed-after-donald-trump-11872359">announced on </a>Dec 18, that the board of the historic venue had "voted unanimously" to rename the building to the "Trump-Kennedy Center." The crews were seen adding "The Donald Trump" above the previously-existing lettering, which read, "The John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts." The Kennedys have yet not responded to Trump's latest attacks. &nbsp;Though Trump did not make any statement himself, he shared screenshots of all the criticism The Kennedys received after the change of the name.&nbsp;"The Kennedy Family have LONG neglected the Kennedy Center, btw," claimed one post. “They don’t raise money for it. They never show up. And the only Kennedy who has been there recently is a member of Trump’s cabinet.” "The Trumps have always been supporters of the arts. The Kennedys are supporters of the Kennedys," read another post.

Tatiana Schlossberg, JFK’s granddaughter and a New York Times climate reporter, has died at 35 after battling leukemia. Diagnosed after childbirth, she chronicled her illness in The New Yorker and criticised RFK Jr. She is survived by her husband and two children.

Tatiana Schlossberg, an American environmental journalist and granddaughter of the late US President John F Kennedy, has died after battling a rare and aggressive form of leukemia, at age 35. Her family announced her death in a statement posted on the John F Kennedy Library Foundation’s Instagram account on Tuesday (Dec 30). Doctors detected the condition after finding an unusually high white blood cell count following the birth of her second child in May 2024. The illness is mostly seen in older patients and among first responders to the 9/11 attacks in New York. Schlossberg wrote about her diagnosis with acute myeloid leukemia in a November essay for The New Yorker. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump attacked Kennedy family, hours after Schlossberg's death. Notably, in her essay about her diagnosis, Schlossberg was deeply critical of her relative Robert F. Kennedy Jr, now the US health secretary. She noted he has curtailed access to vaccines and slashed government medical research spending. “I watched from my hospital bed as Bobby, in the face of logic and common sense, was confirmed for the position, despite never having worked in medicine, public health, or the government,” she wrote. Also Read: 'Not possibly be my life...': JFK's granddaughter Tatiana Schlossberg announces terminal cancer diagnosis Trump attacks Kennedy family US President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to share posts mocking the Kennedy family hours after Tatiana Schlossberg's death. Trump did not directly mention Tatiana's death but shared screenshots of MAGA supporters mocking the famous political family. His comments came days after White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt announced on Dec 18, that the board of the historic venue had "voted unanimously" to rename the building to the "Trump-Kennedy Center." The crews were seen adding "The Donald Trump" above the previously-existing lettering, which read, "The John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts." The Kennedys have yet not responded to Trump's latest attacks. Though Trump did not make any statement himself, he shared screenshots of all the criticism The Kennedys received after the change of the name. "The Kennedy Family have LONG neglected the Kennedy Center, btw," claimed one post. “They don’t raise money for it. They never show up. And the only Kennedy who has been there recently is a member of Trump’s cabinet.” "The Trumps have always been supporters of the arts. The Kennedys are supporters of the Kennedys," read another post.

Tatiana Schlossberg, JFK’s granddaughter and a New York Times climate reporter, has died at 35 after battling leukemia. Diagnosed after childbirth, she chronicled her illness in The New Yorker and criticised RFK Jr. She is survived by her husband and two children.

JFK’s granddaughter Tatiana Schlossberg dies of cancer but Trump can't stop criticising Kennedy family

Despite several statements by Government of India, US President Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed that he settled the India-Pakistan conflict that took place in May this year. Now, following his pattern, China has claimed credit for mediating peace between India and Pakistan. This comes despite India categorically rejecting any third-party mediation. Speaking at the Symposium on the International Situation and China's Foreign Relations in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that China “mediated” to ease the tensions India and Pakistan, alongside also settling issues in northern Myanmar, the Iranian nuclear issue, Palestine and Israel and Thailand and Cambodia. Though, Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MEA) is yet to respond on the matter, a report quoted official familiar to the matter saying that the claims by Beijing are “bizarre.”&nbsp;"This year, local wars and cross-border conflicts flared up more often than at any time since the end of WWII. Geopolitical turbulence continued to spread... To build peace that lasts, we have taken an objective and just stance and focused on addressing both symptoms and root causes," Foreign Minister Wang Yi said. "Following this Chinese approach to settling hotspot issues, we mediated in northern Myanmar, the Iranian nuclear issue, the tensions between Pakistan and India, the issues between Palestine and Israel, and the recent conflict between Cambodia and Thailand," he claimed.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/40-times-and-counting-donald-trump-mentions-he-stopped-india-pakistan-war-yet-again-1756193935347">40 times and counting: Donald Trump mentions 'he stopped India-Pakistan war' yet again</a>&nbsp;India has maintained that hostilities between India and Pakistan stopped after talks between senior military officials of both the countries and no mediation by any third party was involved. The Indian DGMO spoke to the Pakistani counterpart on the insistence of Pakistan and arrived at an understanding to stop the conflict.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-thailand-cambodia-in-pretty-good-shape-despite-clashes-repeats-claim-of-averting-india-pakistan-nuclear-war-1766454822249">Trump says Thailand, Cambodia 'in pretty good shape' despite clashes, repeats claim of averting India–Pakistan 'nuclear war'</a>&nbsp;Wang Yi's remark came days after China also claimed credit for the ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand. In that case too, Beijing jumped in to openly claim credit after US President Trump said he negotiated peace. Beijing even took a swipe at the US saying that it does not impose decisions on warring sides. Hindustan Times quoted Indian government official familiar to the matter saying, “Perhaps the Chinese side is following in the footsteps of the US.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Just a day ago, while meeting Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu, US President Trump lamented that he is not given credit for settling so many wars including that between India and Pakistan. Trump has, in the past, claimed that as many as eight fighter jets were shot down during the military conflict between India and Pakistan in May 2025, adding that the two neighbours were at the verge of going “nuclear.” He has pressed that his team used trade as a tactics to end the conflict.&nbsp;

China has claimed it helped ease India-Pakistan tensions in May, a move India has long rejected. Beijing’s remarks echo similar claims by US President Donald Trump. New Delhi maintains the standoff ended after direct military talks, calling such third-party credit claims “bizarre.”

Despite several statements by Government of India, US President Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed that he settled the India-Pakistan conflict that took place in May this year. Now, following his pattern, China has claimed credit for mediating peace between India and Pakistan. This comes despite India categorically rejecting any third-party mediation. Speaking at the Symposium on the International Situation and China's Foreign Relations in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that China “mediated” to ease the tensions India and Pakistan, alongside also settling issues in northern Myanmar, the Iranian nuclear issue, Palestine and Israel and Thailand and Cambodia. Though, Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MEA) is yet to respond on the matter, a report quoted official familiar to the matter saying that the claims by Beijing are “bizarre.” "This year, local wars and cross-border conflicts flared up more often than at any time since the end of WWII. Geopolitical turbulence continued to spread... To build peace that lasts, we have taken an objective and just stance and focused on addressing both symptoms and root causes," Foreign Minister Wang Yi said. "Following this Chinese approach to settling hotspot issues, we mediated in northern Myanmar, the Iranian nuclear issue, the tensions between Pakistan and India, the issues between Palestine and Israel, and the recent conflict between Cambodia and Thailand," he claimed. Also Read: 40 times and counting: Donald Trump mentions 'he stopped India-Pakistan war' yet again India has maintained that hostilities between India and Pakistan stopped after talks between senior military officials of both the countries and no mediation by any third party was involved. The Indian DGMO spoke to the Pakistani counterpart on the insistence of Pakistan and arrived at an understanding to stop the conflict. Also Read: Trump says Thailand, Cambodia 'in pretty good shape' despite clashes, repeats claim of averting India–Pakistan 'nuclear war' Wang Yi's remark came days after China also claimed credit for the ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand. In that case too, Beijing jumped in to openly claim credit after US President Trump said he negotiated peace. Beijing even took a swipe at the US saying that it does not impose decisions on warring sides. Hindustan Times quoted Indian government official familiar to the matter saying, “Perhaps the Chinese side is following in the footsteps of the US.” Just a day ago, while meeting Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu, US President Trump lamented that he is not given credit for settling so many wars including that between India and Pakistan. Trump has, in the past, claimed that as many as eight fighter jets were shot down during the military conflict between India and Pakistan in May 2025, adding that the two neighbours were at the verge of going “nuclear.” He has pressed that his team used trade as a tactics to end the conflict.

China has claimed it helped ease India-Pakistan tensions in May, a move India has long rejected. Beijing’s remarks echo similar claims by US President Donald Trump. New Delhi maintains the standoff ended after direct military talks, calling such third-party credit claims “bizarre.”

After Trump, China makes ‘bizarre’ mediation claims between India and Pakistan: ‘Settling hotspot issues…’

In western Germany, thieves took advantage of the Christmas lull to pull off a major heist at a retail bank. They drilled into a vault and emptied thousands of safe deposit boxes. Police say the haul is worth around 30 million euros (about $35 million) and includes valuables from customer deposit boxes. Here's what happened.<h2>How did thieves carry out the heist?</h2>The break-in happened at a branch of Sparkasse in the city of Gelsenkirchen. According to investigators, the suspects drilled through a thick concrete wall before gaining access to the vault. Once inside, they forced open several thousand customer deposit boxes, making off with cash, jewellery and other valuables. The total loss, police said, runs into the double-digit millions; estimates suggest loot was around 30 million euros (about $35 million).Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-mamdani-epstein-hasina-pope-leo-xiv-elon-musk-luigi-mangione-shubhanshu-shukla-global-headlines-2025-most-talked-about-people-1766740930763">Trump, Epstein, Mamdani and more: 2025’s most talked-about people</a>The timing appears deliberate. In Germany, most banks and shops shut down over the Christmas period, starting on the evening of December 24. Due to this, the damage went unnoticed for days. Police were only alerted in the early hours of Monday, December 29, after a fire alarm went off inside the building.<h2>"Let us in"</h2>By Tuesday morning, anger and frustration had spilt onto the street, reports CNN. Dozens of angry customers gathered outside the now-closed branch, chanting "Let us in!" and demanding answers. "I couldn't sleep last night. We're getting no information," one customer told broadcaster Welt. Another said that he stored cash and jewellery accumulated over decades in his looted deposit box.Many said they had received little or no information about what had been taken or when they might be allowed access. The bank is yet to issue a statement.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-catastrophic-conditions-israel-to-suspend-dozens-of-aid-groups-in-gaza-within-36-hours-1767143221513">Israel to suspend dozens of aid groups in Gaza within 36 hours. Here's why</a><h2>What's happening now?</h2>Police said witnesses reported seeing several men carrying large bags through the stairwell of a nearby parking garage late on Saturday night. There were also sightings of a black Audi RS6 leaving the garage early on Monday morning, with masked men inside. Investigators later confirmed the licence plate belonged to a car stolen in Hanover, more than 200 kilometres northeast of Gelsenkirchen.Officers are now reviewing CCTV footage and appealing for further witnesses.&nbsp;

Thieves exploited the Christmas shutdown to pull off a massive bank heist in western Germany, drilling into a vault and emptying thousands of deposit boxes. Losses have been pegged at nearly €30 million (about $35 million).

In western Germany, thieves took advantage of the Christmas lull to pull off a major heist at a retail bank. They drilled into a vault and emptied thousands of safe deposit boxes. Police say the haul is worth around 30 million euros (about $35 million) and includes valuables from customer deposit boxes. Here's what happened. How did thieves carry out the heist? The break-in happened at a branch of Sparkasse in the city of Gelsenkirchen. According to investigators, the suspects drilled through a thick concrete wall before gaining access to the vault. Once inside, they forced open several thousand customer deposit boxes, making off with cash, jewellery and other valuables. The total loss, police said, runs into the double-digit millions; estimates suggest loot was around 30 million euros (about $35 million). Also read | Trump, Epstein, Mamdani and more: 2025’s most talked-about people The timing appears deliberate. In Germany, most banks and shops shut down over the Christmas period, starting on the evening of December 24. Due to this, the damage went unnoticed for days. Police were only alerted in the early hours of Monday, December 29, after a fire alarm went off inside the building. "Let us in" By Tuesday morning, anger and frustration had spilt onto the street, reports CNN. Dozens of angry customers gathered outside the now-closed branch, chanting "Let us in!" and demanding answers. "I couldn't sleep last night. We're getting no information," one customer told broadcaster Welt. Another said that he stored cash and jewellery accumulated over decades in his looted deposit box. Many said they had received little or no information about what had been taken or when they might be allowed access. The bank is yet to issue a statement. Also read | Israel to suspend dozens of aid groups in Gaza within 36 hours. Here's why What's happening now? Police said witnesses reported seeing several men carrying large bags through the stairwell of a nearby parking garage late on Saturday night. There were also sightings of a black Audi RS6 leaving the garage early on Monday morning, with masked men inside. Investigators later confirmed the licence plate belonged to a car stolen in Hanover, more than 200 kilometres northeast of Gelsenkirchen. Officers are now reviewing CCTV footage and appealing for further witnesses.

Thieves exploited the Christmas shutdown to pull off a massive bank heist in western Germany, drilling into a vault and emptying thousands of deposit boxes. Losses have been pegged at nearly €30 million (about $35 million).

Massive Christmas bank heist in Germany: Thieves drill into vault, loot $35 million

Two trains have collided on the line that services Peru’s Machu Picchu, killing one person and injuring at least 40 others. The deceased was the conductor of one of the two trains, according to the prosecutor’s office in Cusco, the city closest to the famous Inca citadel. The head-on collision between two trains happened on the single track that links the town of Ollantaytambo with Machu Picchu. Rail agency Ferrocarril Transandino said a train operated by PeruRail collided with another belonging to Inca Rail around lunchtime. The cause of the accident was not yet known.&nbsp;AFP reported that videos sent by passengers to the RPP television channel showed injured victims lying next to the tracks with two damaged locomotives standing idle nearby. A dozen ambulances and medical personnel were rushed to the site in a remote Andean area without direct road access.&nbsp;A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983, the ancient fortified complex receives some 4,500 visitors on average each day, many of them foreigners, according to the tourism ministry.Most tourists take a train and a bus to reach the historic site high in the Andes mountains. &nbsp;Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century at an altitude of 2,500 meters (about 8,200 feet) on orders from the Inca ruler Pachacutec. It is considered a marvel of architecture and engineering.&nbsp;(This is a developing story)&nbsp;

Two trains collided head-on on the single-track line to Peru’s Machu Picchu, killing one conductor and injuring at least 40 people. The crash occurred between Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu. Rescue teams rushed to the remote Andean site as the cause remains unknown.

Two trains have collided on the line that services Peru’s Machu Picchu, killing one person and injuring at least 40 others. The deceased was the conductor of one of the two trains, according to the prosecutor’s office in Cusco, the city closest to the famous Inca citadel. The head-on collision between two trains happened on the single track that links the town of Ollantaytambo with Machu Picchu. Rail agency Ferrocarril Transandino said a train operated by PeruRail collided with another belonging to Inca Rail around lunchtime. The cause of the accident was not yet known. AFP reported that videos sent by passengers to the RPP television channel showed injured victims lying next to the tracks with two damaged locomotives standing idle nearby. A dozen ambulances and medical personnel were rushed to the site in a remote Andean area without direct road access. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983, the ancient fortified complex receives some 4,500 visitors on average each day, many of them foreigners, according to the tourism ministry.Most tourists take a train and a bus to reach the historic site high in the Andes mountains. Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century at an altitude of 2,500 meters (about 8,200 feet) on orders from the Inca ruler Pachacutec. It is considered a marvel of architecture and engineering. (This is a developing story)

Two trains collided head-on on the single-track line to Peru’s Machu Picchu, killing one conductor and injuring at least 40 people. The crash occurred between Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu. Rescue teams rushed to the remote Andean site as the cause remains unknown.

Two tourist trains collide in Peru's Machu Picchu, at least one dead, 40 injured

Despite a flurry of diplomatic efforts and an unusually optimistic statement from US President Donald Trump, military experts see scant chance of an early end to the war of aggression Russia began almost four years ago.&nbsp;&nbsp;The losses in the biggest conflict in Europe since World War 2 have been staggering. Precise, verified numbers on either side are secret, but estimates suggest well over a million Russian casualties killed or wounded, with Ukraine suffering at least 400,000. &nbsp;&nbsp;The war is being waged on two distinct fronts: on the battlefield and what the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War calls “cognitive warfare.” That is a battle for how key leaders, above all, Trump, assess the strengths of the warring parties. &nbsp;&nbsp;The Kremlin has gone all out in a campaign to convince the world that a Russian victory is inevitable. That has had some success. In a December interview with the news site Politico, Trump repeated a Kremlin talking point: “Russia has the upper hand, and they always had. They are much bigger. They are much stronger. You know, at some point, they will win.” &nbsp;&nbsp;Facts on the ground do not support this assessment. During this year’s summer offensive, Russia seized just under one per cent of Ukrainian territory at the cost of more than 200,000 dead or wounded.&nbsp;The “Russian victory is inevitable” message is designed to pressure the United States and Ukraine’s European allies into reducing their support and pushing Kyiv towards concessions.&nbsp;In late November, the Trump administration came up with a 28-point peace proposal, which prompted immediate criticism both from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraine’s European allies and several US lawmakers for being favourable to Russia. It included territorial concessions and a cap on the size of the Ukrainian army.&nbsp;The hostile reaction prompted more rounds of diplomatic talks and resulted in a 20-point plan leaning less towards the Kremlin’s demands. &nbsp;&nbsp;That plan was discussed by Trump and Zelensky at Trump’s winter home in Florida on December 28. Both leaders expressed optimism after the talks, and Trump said that Russia and Ukraine were “getting a lot closer, maybe very close” to a peace deal.&nbsp;A day later, the Kremlin accused Ukraine of having launched a massive drone strike on one of Putin’s official residences, in the Novgorod region north of Moscow. The Russian Defence Ministry asserted the attack had involved 91 long-range drones – all of which were shot down.&nbsp;According to the Russians, there was no damage in what they termed “an act of state terrorism” which would be answered with toughened negotiating positions in forthcoming Trump-mediated talks. In other words, the Americans’ “maybe very close” might not be as close as he thought.&nbsp;There is no physical evidence of the alleged attack on a Putin residence, unusual in a world where almost nothing ever happens without video images.&nbsp;No senior official or analyst has made predictions on how long the conflict will last, perhaps keeping in mind the mockery generated by Trump’s assertion during the campaign for the 2024 elections he won that he would solve the war in a day.&nbsp;The first time he made that claim was on January 26, 2023 on his social network, Truth Social. “If I were president,” he said, “the Russia/Ukraine war would never have happened, but even now, if president, I would be able to negotiate an end to this horrible and rapidly escalating war within 24 hours.”&nbsp;That was 1,074 days ago, and the “solution in one day” assertion became a standard phrase in his campaign speeches. &nbsp;&nbsp;While Putin has made clear that he thinks time is on Russia’s side because of its greater size and larger numbers, some US analysts think he is making a strategic mistake in drawing out the conflict.&nbsp;In a thoughtful analysis in Foreign Affairs, the must-read publication of the American foreign policy establishment, Sergey Radchenko, a professor at the &nbsp;John Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, &nbsp;headlined his analysis America’s Magical Thinking about Ukraine. &nbsp;&nbsp;He said that “it should be evident to anyone who has closely followed this conflict that, nearly four years on, Russia is much worse off than it was in February 2022. . Its economy… is now in dire straits. With runaway inflation and an interest rate of 16.5 per cent, Russia is on a steady track to recession. It has a shortage of labour, especially highly qualified labour.&nbsp;“Russia finds itself increasingly dependent on China as a source of key technologies and as a market for Russian hydrocarbons; such dependence makes Russia deeply vulnerable to the whims of Beijing.”Radchenko summed up with a sobering assessment of the conflict: “In reality, both countries are losing the war. The question is which one will lose first.”

No senior official or analyst has made predictions on how long the conflict will last, perhaps keeping in mind the mockery generated by Trump’s assertion during the campaign for the 2024 elections he won that he would solve the war in a day.



Despite a flurry of diplomatic efforts and an unusually optimistic statement from US President Donald Trump, military experts see scant chance of an early end to the war of aggression Russia began almost four years ago. The losses in the biggest conflict in Europe since World War 2 have been staggering. Precise, verified numbers on either side are secret, but estimates suggest well over a million Russian casualties killed or wounded, with Ukraine suffering at least 400,000. The war is being waged on two distinct fronts: on the battlefield and what the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War calls “cognitive warfare.” That is a battle for how key leaders, above all, Trump, assess the strengths of the warring parties. The Kremlin has gone all out in a campaign to convince the world that a Russian victory is inevitable. That has had some success. In a December interview with the news site Politico, Trump repeated a Kremlin talking point: “Russia has the upper hand, and they always had. They are much bigger. They are much stronger. You know, at some point, they will win.” Facts on the ground do not support this assessment. During this year’s summer offensive, Russia seized just under one per cent of Ukrainian territory at the cost of more than 200,000 dead or wounded. The “Russian victory is inevitable” message is designed to pressure the United States and Ukraine’s European allies into reducing their support and pushing Kyiv towards concessions. In late November, the Trump administration came up with a 28-point peace proposal, which prompted immediate criticism both from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraine’s European allies and several US lawmakers for being favourable to Russia. It included territorial concessions and a cap on the size of the Ukrainian army. The hostile reaction prompted more rounds of diplomatic talks and resulted in a 20-point plan leaning less towards the Kremlin’s demands. That plan was discussed by Trump and Zelensky at Trump’s winter home in Florida on December 28. Both leaders expressed optimism after the talks, and Trump said that Russia and Ukraine were “getting a lot closer, maybe very close” to a peace deal. A day later, the Kremlin accused Ukraine of having launched a massive drone strike on one of Putin’s official residences, in the Novgorod region north of Moscow. The Russian Defence Ministry asserted the attack had involved 91 long-range drones – all of which were shot down. According to the Russians, there was no damage in what they termed “an act of state terrorism” which would be answered with toughened negotiating positions in forthcoming Trump-mediated talks. In other words, the Americans’ “maybe very close” might not be as close as he thought. There is no physical evidence of the alleged attack on a Putin residence, unusual in a world where almost nothing ever happens without video images. No senior official or analyst has made predictions on how long the conflict will last, perhaps keeping in mind the mockery generated by Trump’s assertion during the campaign for the 2024 elections he won that he would solve the war in a day. The first time he made that claim was on January 26, 2023 on his social network, Truth Social. “If I were president,” he said, “the Russia/Ukraine war would never have happened, but even now, if president, I would be able to negotiate an end to this horrible and rapidly escalating war within 24 hours.” That was 1,074 days ago, and the “solution in one day” assertion became a standard phrase in his campaign speeches. While Putin has made clear that he thinks time is on Russia’s side because of its greater size and larger numbers, some US analysts think he is making a strategic mistake in drawing out the conflict. In a thoughtful analysis in Foreign Affairs, the must-read publication of the American foreign policy establishment, Sergey Radchenko, a professor at the John Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, headlined his analysis America’s Magical Thinking about Ukraine. He said that “it should be evident to anyone who has closely followed this conflict that, nearly four years on, Russia is much worse off than it was in February 2022. . Its economy… is now in dire straits. With runaway inflation and an interest rate of 16.5 per cent, Russia is on a steady track to recession. It has a shortage of labour, especially highly qualified labour. “Russia finds itself increasingly dependent on China as a source of key technologies and as a market for Russian hydrocarbons; such dependence makes Russia deeply vulnerable to the whims of Beijing.” Radchenko summed up with a sobering assessment of the conflict: “In reality, both countries are losing the war. The question is which one will lose first.”

No senior official or analyst has made predictions on how long the conflict will last, perhaps keeping in mind the mockery generated by Trump’s assertion during the campaign for the 2024 elections he won that he would solve the war in a day.

Forget Ukraine progress reports. There’s no end in sight for the war

Israel on Tuesday (Dec 30) announced that it will suspend the operations of dozens of aid organisations in Gaza within the next 36 hours, over their failure to comply with new registration rules that require the submission of personal details of Palestinian and international staff. Among those affected are some of the world’s best-known humanitarian groups, including Oxfam, ActionAid, the International Rescue Committee and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). The decision announced by Israel's Ministry of Diaspora Affairs comes as conditions in Gaza worsen due to powerful winter storms. In recent days, these storms have torn through thousands of makeshift tents, deepening what aid agencies describe as an already severe humanitarian crisis.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-mamdani-epstein-hasina-pope-leo-xiv-elon-musk-luigi-mangione-shubhanshu-shukla-global-headlines-2025-most-talked-about-people-1766740930763">Trump, Epstein, Mamdani and more: 2025’s most talked-about people</a><h2>Situation in Gaza 'catastrophic'</h2>Foreign ministers from 10 countries have issued a joint statement expressing "serious concerns" about what they called a renewed deterioration of conditions on the ground. The ministers, from Britain, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Iceland, Japan, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland, warned that the situation in Gaza was now "catastrophic"."As winter draws in, civilians in Gaza are facing appalling conditions with heavy rainfall and temperatures dropping," said the statement, pointing to heavy rain, falling temperatures and a lack of shelter. It noted that "1.3 million people still require urgent shelter support. More than half of health facilities are only partially functional and face shortages of essential medical equipment and supplies. The total collapse of sanitation infrastructure has left 740,000 people vulnerable to toxic flooding".The ministers urged Israel to lift what they described as "unreasonable restrictions on imports considered to have a dual use" and to allow the UN and its partners to continue operating. Hundreds of items remain blocked from entering Gaza on the grounds of possible dual use, including medical and shelter supplies that aid groups say are essential.The nations also called for border crossings to be opened to increase the flow of aid, highlighting continued restrictions at Rafah, the main gateway to Egypt.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-say-he-s-glad-us-didn-t-give-ukraine-tomahawks-after-putin-alleges-drone-attack-on-residence-1767063879561">Did Trump say he’s ‘glad’ US didn’t give Ukraine Tomahawks after Putin alleges drone attack on residence?</a><h2>What did Israel say?</h2>Israeli officials said aid groups had been given ample warning about the new rules and that 15 per cent had not had their permits renewed. Organisations that failed to submit staff lists, the ministry said, would have their licences revoked from 1 January. The ones that "refused to submit a list of their Palestinian employees in order to rule out any links to terrorism," it added.Aid agencies have previously argued the requirements clash with European data protection laws and could put staff at risk.

Israel says it will suspend dozens of aid groups in Gaza within 36 hours over new staff disclosure rules, hitting major charities as winter storms worsen conditions. Ten countries warn Gaza is now “catastrophic,” accusing Israel of choking lifesaving aid when it is needed most.

Israel on Tuesday (Dec 30) announced that it will suspend the operations of dozens of aid organisations in Gaza within the next 36 hours, over their failure to comply with new registration rules that require the submission of personal details of Palestinian and international staff. Among those affected are some of the world’s best-known humanitarian groups, including Oxfam, ActionAid, the International Rescue Committee and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). The decision announced by Israel's Ministry of Diaspora Affairs comes as conditions in Gaza worsen due to powerful winter storms. In recent days, these storms have torn through thousands of makeshift tents, deepening what aid agencies describe as an already severe humanitarian crisis. Also read | Trump, Epstein, Mamdani and more: 2025’s most talked-about people Situation in Gaza 'catastrophic' Foreign ministers from 10 countries have issued a joint statement expressing "serious concerns" about what they called a renewed deterioration of conditions on the ground. The ministers, from Britain, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Iceland, Japan, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland, warned that the situation in Gaza was now "catastrophic". "As winter draws in, civilians in Gaza are facing appalling conditions with heavy rainfall and temperatures dropping," said the statement, pointing to heavy rain, falling temperatures and a lack of shelter. It noted that "1.3 million people still require urgent shelter support. More than half of health facilities are only partially functional and face shortages of essential medical equipment and supplies. The total collapse of sanitation infrastructure has left 740,000 people vulnerable to toxic flooding". The ministers urged Israel to lift what they described as "unreasonable restrictions on imports considered to have a dual use" and to allow the UN and its partners to continue operating. Hundreds of items remain blocked from entering Gaza on the grounds of possible dual use, including medical and shelter supplies that aid groups say are essential. The nations also called for border crossings to be opened to increase the flow of aid, highlighting continued restrictions at Rafah, the main gateway to Egypt. Also read | Did Trump say he’s ‘glad’ US didn’t give Ukraine Tomahawks after Putin alleges drone attack on residence? What did Israel say? Israeli officials said aid groups had been given ample warning about the new rules and that 15 per cent had not had their permits renewed. Organisations that failed to submit staff lists, the ministry said, would have their licences revoked from 1 January. The ones that "refused to submit a list of their Palestinian employees in order to rule out any links to terrorism," it added. Aid agencies have previously argued the requirements clash with European data protection laws and could put staff at risk.

Israel says it will suspend dozens of aid groups in Gaza within 36 hours over new staff disclosure rules, hitting major charities as winter storms worsen conditions. Ten countries warn Gaza is now “catastrophic,” accusing Israel of choking lifesaving aid when it is needed most.

Amid 'catastrophic' conditions Israel to suspend dozens of aid groups in Gaza within 36 hours

Eurostar (the high-speed rail service in Europe) has suspended all its services amid peak travel season between Christmas and New Year, with the London-Paris route among those hit. The suspension took effect on Tuesday (Dec 30) after a power supply issue in the Channel Tunnel, sparking chaos, AFP reported. “There was a power supply problem in the Channel tunnel, followed by a shuttle train coming to a halt inside,” a spokesperson for Eurostar said. “All journeys to and from London are suspended until further notice,” AFP quoted the spokesperson as saying.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kimmel-vs-trump-late-night-host-claims-tyranny-is-booming-in-us-says-my-country-s-president-would-like-to-shut-me-up-because-1766763187731">Kimmel vs Trump: Late-night host claims ‘tyranny is booming’ in US, says ‘my country’s president would like to shut me up because...’</a>&nbsp;The Channel Tunnel's operator, Getlink, told the agency that the train traffic would likely resume on Tuesday afternoon. Earlier, the Eurostar had issued an advisory urging passengers to postpone their journeys, citing “major disruption”. Eurostar said the suspension was caused by a power problem in the tunnel and a “subsequent failed Le Shuttle train.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-russia-has-a-long-record-of-false-claims-ukraine-fm-rejects-drone-attack-on-putin-s-house-claim-says-there-s-no-plausible-evidence-1767104656376">‘Russia has a long record of false claims’: Ukraine FM rejects ‘drone attack on Putin’s house’ claim, says there’s ‘no plausible evidence’</a>&nbsp;Currently, only one of the two main tunnels in the Channel Tunnel is available for trains to run on, Eurostar said in a statement to the BBC. Eurostar's services resumed with the 15:04 train from London to Brussels departing after 16:00. The LeShuttle service "resumed very gradually on one track" shortly before 15:00 local time (14:00 GMT), the EuroTunnel Press Office said. "Service is operating alternately in both directions with significant delays," it said, adding that "additional shuttles will be added in the evening and until tomorrow morning".&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-thwarts-planned-attacks-on-christmas-arrests-over-100-islamic-state-group-suspects-details-inside-1766670065971">Turkey thwarts planned attacks on Christmas, arrests over 100 Islamic State group suspects. Details inside</a>

The suspension took effect on Tuesday (Dec 30) after a power supply issue in the Channel Tunnel, sparking chaos, AFP reported.

Eurostar (the high-speed rail service in Europe) has suspended all its services amid peak travel season between Christmas and New Year, with the London-Paris route among those hit. The suspension took effect on Tuesday (Dec 30) after a power supply issue in the Channel Tunnel, sparking chaos, AFP reported. “There was a power supply problem in the Channel tunnel, followed by a shuttle train coming to a halt inside,” a spokesperson for Eurostar said. “All journeys to and from London are suspended until further notice,” AFP quoted the spokesperson as saying. Also read: Kimmel vs Trump: Late-night host claims ‘tyranny is booming’ in US, says ‘my country’s president would like to shut me up because...’ The Channel Tunnel's operator, Getlink, told the agency that the train traffic would likely resume on Tuesday afternoon. Earlier, the Eurostar had issued an advisory urging passengers to postpone their journeys, citing “major disruption”. Eurostar said the suspension was caused by a power problem in the tunnel and a “subsequent failed Le Shuttle train.” Also read: ‘Russia has a long record of false claims’: Ukraine FM rejects ‘drone attack on Putin’s house’ claim, says there’s ‘no plausible evidence’ Currently, only one of the two main tunnels in the Channel Tunnel is available for trains to run on, Eurostar said in a statement to the BBC. Eurostar's services resumed with the 15:04 train from London to Brussels departing after 16:00. The LeShuttle service "resumed very gradually on one track" shortly before 15:00 local time (14:00 GMT), the EuroTunnel Press Office said. "Service is operating alternately in both directions with significant delays," it said, adding that "additional shuttles will be added in the evening and until tomorrow morning". Also read: Turkey thwarts planned attacks on Christmas, arrests over 100 Islamic State group suspects. Details inside

The suspension took effect on Tuesday (Dec 30) after a power supply issue in the Channel Tunnel, sparking chaos, AFP reported.

Eurostar suspends services in Europe, leaving London-Paris route disrupted. Details inside

The demolition of the Chinese monument at the Mirador del Puente de Las Américas, a scenic overlook near Panama’s iconic Bridge of the Americas, has ignited a diplomatic firestorm. The monument, an Eastern-style arch and obelisk, stood as a tribute to the significant contributions of Chinese immigrants to Panama’s history, particularly their labour in building the Panama Canal and the Twin Ocean Railway in the 19th century. Offering stunning views of the canal and bridge, the site held cultural resonance for Panama’s Chinese community, established for generations. Arraiján Mayor Stefany Peñalba justified the demolition, announced on December 28, 2025, via a social media post, as a “preventive and technical” decision to enhance the site for tourism. “We assume responsibility for the actions taken at the Mirador del Puente de Las Américas… This was an autonomous decision that does not intend to offend or negate the cultural legacy of the Chinese community in Panama,” she stated, promising a renovated park. However, the nighttime demolition has been widely criticised, with the Chinese community alleging they were denied a chance to repair or relocate it. The decision has drawn sharp rebukes from Beijing. China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian condemned the act, stating, “China deplores the forced demolition by relevant local authorities in Panama, and has protested… The monument stood as a witness and memorial to the time-honoured friendship between China and Panama, and to the tremendous contribution of Chinese workers who travelled across the oceans… some even paying the ultimate price during the construction.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-khaleda-zia-s-death-taslima-nasreen-asks-will-my-exile-end-seikh-hasina-freedom-of-expression-in-bangladesh-lajja-khaleda-zia-1767112351500">After Khaleda Zia’s death, Taslima Nasreen asks: ‘Will my exile end?’</a>&nbsp;The move impacts the Panama-China relations, with political undertones as US President Trump tries to stake a claim to the Panama Canal. Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has reacted to the development in a strong way. In a Facebook post, he said, "There is no justification whatsoever for the barbarity committed by the mayor of Arraiján in demolishing the monument to the Chinese Community built on the Bridge of the Americas". He pointed out that the Chinese community is "traditional in our country, with generations established here, and deserves all our respect. An investigation should be launched immediately. Such an irrational act is unforgivable." The controversy coincides with former US President Donald Trump’s recent claims that the canal treaties are a “bad part” of the Carter legacy, reflecting US anxieties about Chinese influence.

Arraiján Mayor Stefany Peñalba justified the demolition, announced on December 28, 2025, via a social media post, as a “preventive and technical” decision to enhance the site for tourism. 

The demolition of the Chinese monument at the Mirador del Puente de Las Américas, a scenic overlook near Panama’s iconic Bridge of the Americas, has ignited a diplomatic firestorm. The monument, an Eastern-style arch and obelisk, stood as a tribute to the significant contributions of Chinese immigrants to Panama’s history, particularly their labour in building the Panama Canal and the Twin Ocean Railway in the 19th century. Offering stunning views of the canal and bridge, the site held cultural resonance for Panama’s Chinese community, established for generations. Arraiján Mayor Stefany Peñalba justified the demolition, announced on December 28, 2025, via a social media post, as a “preventive and technical” decision to enhance the site for tourism. “We assume responsibility for the actions taken at the Mirador del Puente de Las Américas… This was an autonomous decision that does not intend to offend or negate the cultural legacy of the Chinese community in Panama,” she stated, promising a renovated park. However, the nighttime demolition has been widely criticised, with the Chinese community alleging they were denied a chance to repair or relocate it. The decision has drawn sharp rebukes from Beijing. China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian condemned the act, stating, “China deplores the forced demolition by relevant local authorities in Panama, and has protested… The monument stood as a witness and memorial to the time-honoured friendship between China and Panama, and to the tremendous contribution of Chinese workers who travelled across the oceans… some even paying the ultimate price during the construction.” Also Read: After Khaleda Zia’s death, Taslima Nasreen asks: ‘Will my exile end?’ The move impacts the Panama-China relations, with political undertones as US President Trump tries to stake a claim to the Panama Canal. Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has reacted to the development in a strong way. In a Facebook post, he said, "There is no justification whatsoever for the barbarity committed by the mayor of Arraiján in demolishing the monument to the Chinese Community built on the Bridge of the Americas". He pointed out that the Chinese community is "traditional in our country, with generations established here, and deserves all our respect. An investigation should be launched immediately. Such an irrational act is unforgivable." The controversy coincides with former US President Donald Trump’s recent claims that the canal treaties are a “bad part” of the Carter legacy, reflecting US anxieties about Chinese influence.

Arraiján Mayor Stefany Peñalba justified the demolition, announced on December 28, 2025, via a social media post, as a “preventive and technical” decision to enhance the site for tourism.&nbsp;

Demolition of Chinese monument in Panama sparks Beijing anger

The year 2025 saw several summits and meetings between world leaders, and certain moments from some of them went viral on the internet. These short instances caught on camera proved that diplomacy no longer lives only in communiqués and closed rooms but rather unfolded in glances, jokes, awkward pauses and unscripted remarks.From summit stages to airport tarmacs, these were the world-leader moments that escaped protocol and took over the internet.<h2>Elon Musk</h2>Elon Musk set the tone early in the year. When the tech billionaire arrived at a political gathering on April 30, 2025, wearing not one but two hats during the first cabinet meeting of the Trump administration. The images spread rapidly, with users joking about divided loyalties, mixed messages and Musk’s now-familiar taste for spectacle.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Elon Musk wearing two hats on top of each other in the Cabinet meeting with Donald Trump: &quot;They say I wear a lot of hats, and as you can see, it&#39;s true. Even my hat has a hat.&quot; Is he on something? <a href="https://t.co/f7FiOhDCII">pic.twitter.com/f7FiOhDCII</a>&mdash; Art Candee 🍿🥤 (@ArtCandee) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArtCandee/status/1917621932666610113?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Trump-Zelensky-Putin</h2>By late February, the focus had shifted to geopolitics. On February 28, 2025, a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky produced one of the most replayed diplomatic clips of the year. Long silences, tight expressions and a visible lack of warmth turned the encounter into a viral case study of tension — and a magnet for memes.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Vance: Have you said thank you once? Zelenskyy: You think if you speak very loudly— Trump: He’s not speaking loudly. You’ve done a lot of talking. You’re not winning this <a href="https://t.co/32wEHc4Pk6">pic.twitter.com/32wEHc4Pk6</a>&mdash; Acyn (@Acyn) <a href="https://twitter.com/Acyn/status/1895531921456972130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Zelensky later went viral for an entirely different reason. In another meeting with Trump on August 18, 2025, where he wore a suit, a reporter questioned his attire. Zelensky’s quick response drew laughter in the room and admiration online. “I changed, you did not,” he said, reinforcing his reputation for mixing gravity with wit even amid war.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Reporter tells Zelensky he “looks fabulous in that suit.” Trump: “That’s the reporter who attacked you last time.” Zelensky: “I remember… You’re in the same suit. I changed. You did not.” <a href="https://t.co/00jS02f7W6">pic.twitter.com/00jS02f7W6</a>&mdash; Truth Seeker (@mib_63) <a href="https://twitter.com/mib_63/status/1957850469973344361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

On August 15, Trump’s show of force went viral on social media when a US B-2 bomber was flown overhead by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who came to Alaska for a summit with him. The same B-2 bombers were used in US strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear sites earlier in June amid tensions over its nuclear program. In another clip, Putin was also making animated expressions as US reporters screamed questions at him.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Trump just flew a B-2 stealth bomber over Putin’s head… Absolutely incredible. <a href="https://t.co/2bsnssRv9f">pic.twitter.com/2bsnssRv9f</a>&mdash; Geiger Capital (@Geiger_Capital) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geiger_Capital/status/1956435809189478527?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Look at Putin&#39;s face when American reporters start screaming questions at him. <a href="https://t.co/omvH1gP0sM">pic.twitter.com/omvH1gP0sM</a>&mdash; Brian McDonald (@27khv) <a href="https://twitter.com/27khv/status/1956453750597386258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>G7 Summit</h2>The G7 summit in mid-June provided its own share of viral content. Trump clumsily announced a trade deal with the ‘European Union’, when he meant to say the UK. He also dropped the documents while speaking to reporters at the G7 summit alongside UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Trump is totally losing it. Confusing the UK with the EU, saying: “We have a trade agreement with the European Union.” 🤡 Bro, Brexit happened a long time ago. <a href="https://t.co/1cdmw9R7be">pic.twitter.com/1cdmw9R7be</a>&mdash; Mario (@PawlowskiMario) <a href="https://twitter.com/PawlowskiMario/status/1934757654364143703?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Cameras caught Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni rolling her eyes when French President Emmanuel Macron spoke to her during a group interaction. The subtle moment became instant meme material, proving that even the smallest gestures can overshadow policy.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BREAKING from G-7: This is the moment when Macron tells Meloni that the local 🤡 entered the global room. The face of the Italian Prime Minister says it all. <a href="https://t.co/jNSznP4GJQ">pic.twitter.com/jNSznP4GJQ</a>&mdash; Mario (@PawlowskiMario) <a href="https://twitter.com/PawlowskiMario/status/1934691113253888215?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

At a Middle East Summit in Egypt aimed at a Gaza ceasefire, Trump referred to Meloni as “beautiful” during his address – a comment that drew praise from some, criticism from others, and guaranteed widespread circulation.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Trump calls Italian Prime Minister Meloni &quot;beautiful&quot; and says calling a woman beautiful in the U.S. is the &quot;end of your political career.&quot; &quot;I&#39;ll take my chances.&quot;😂 <a href="https://t.co/nNdpaIhfd9">pic.twitter.com/nNdpaIhfd9</a>&mdash; Daily Wire (@realDailyWire) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDailyWire/status/1977787015740658082?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In another clip, Trump mentioned Starmer, who came forward only to be ignored by the US President. The UK PM was seen awkwardly going back to his previous position, with the clip going viral.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Awkward‼️Keir Starmer thinks Trump is inviting him to speak at Gaza peace summit - but is SNUBBED and sent packing 🤣🤣🤣 <a href="https://t.co/AmXSh2YH2s">pic.twitter.com/AmXSh2YH2s</a>&mdash; Peter Lloyd (@Suffragent_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Suffragent_/status/1977854726818676857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

During the summit, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that he nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, drawing a reaction from Meloni, who was standing right behind them. The clip went viral as social media users caught her expressions.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">watch Meloni as Pakistan&#39;s Sharif fluffs Trump for next year&#39;s Nobel <a href="https://t.co/yZxQt4o2IZ">pic.twitter.com/yZxQt4o2IZ</a>&mdash; Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) <a href="https://twitter.com/atrupar/status/1977788284664185022?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>NATO chief calls Trump ‘daddy’</h2>One of the year’s most unexpected viral moments came in June, when NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte referred to Trump as “Daddy” during public remarks. The comment stunned viewers and instantly became a global meme, eclipsing the serious context of the meeting.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 LMAO! The NATO Chief just called President Trump “Daddy” following his f-bomb drop 47 runs this show 🤣 <a href="https://t.co/WRv2HYBOh9">pic.twitter.com/WRv2HYBOh9</a>&mdash; Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) <a href="https://twitter.com/nicksortor/status/1937864614995238957?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Macron slapped by wife</h2>In May, France found itself at the centre of a very different kind of viral storm. In a viral clip, French President Emmanuel Macron’s wife Brigitte is seen pushing his face away when they arrived in Vietnam’s capital Hanoi. Macron denied any claims of “domestic dispute”, saying that they were “joking as we often do” and noting that other videos had been misinterpreted.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">JUST IN: 🇫🇷 French President Macron&#39;s wife slaps him in face. <a href="https://t.co/Cl9idDeWz0">pic.twitter.com/Cl9idDeWz0</a>&mdash; BRICS News (@BRICSinfo) <a href="https://twitter.com/BRICSinfo/status/1926922871932137780?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Trump faces malfunctions at UN</h2>During the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Trump faced two malfunctions – his teleprompter glitched, and the escalator stopped when he and his wife, Melania, stepped on it. The US president complained about both during his speech at the New York headquarters of the UN. Trump joked that whoever was in charge of operating the equipment was “in big trouble.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 Are the United Nations Trolling Trump? Watch as moments ago President Trump &amp; Melania step on to this escalator only for it to immediately stop working. After this Trumps Teleprompter failed straight away as he began to make his speech ‼️ <a href="https://t.co/Y0zhHXcDfP">pic.twitter.com/Y0zhHXcDfP</a>&mdash; Concerned Citizen (@BGatesIsaPyscho) <a href="https://twitter.com/BGatesIsaPyscho/status/1970496315537670604?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&#39;Whoever&#39;s operating this teleprompter is in big trouble,&#39; says US President <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DonaldTrump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DonaldTrump</a> after the tele-prompter fails to work at the beginning of his address the UNGA.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNGA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA</a> <a href="https://t.co/kam139VTxp">pic.twitter.com/kam139VTxp</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1970505715400769984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Modi-Putin-Xi at SCO Summit</h2>Clips from the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in September also went viral, showing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping laughing together. In a second clip, Modi and Putin were seen walking past Pakistan’s Shehbaz Sharif, completely ignoring him, sparking memes.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Watch: Pakistan PM Shahbaz Sharif looks on as PM Modi, Russian President Putin walks past him at the SCO summit <a href="https://t.co/aqIMQBuI6v">pic.twitter.com/aqIMQBuI6v</a>&mdash; Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1962345522066321526?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">More visuals from SCO summit: Modi, Putin camaraderie as both later meet Chinese President Xi Jinping <a href="https://t.co/DAd3DQIaAs">pic.twitter.com/DAd3DQIaAs</a>&mdash; Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1962358462752387229?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

From summit stages to airport tarmacs, these were the world-leader moments that escaped protocol and took over the internet.

The year 2025 saw several summits and meetings between world leaders, and certain moments from some of them went viral on the internet. These short instances caught on camera proved that diplomacy no longer lives only in communiqués and closed rooms but rather unfolded in glances, jokes, awkward pauses and unscripted remarks. From summit stages to airport tarmacs, these were the world-leader moments that escaped protocol and took over the internet. Elon Musk Elon Musk set the tone early in the year. When the tech billionaire arrived at a political gathering on April 30, 2025, wearing not one but two hats during the first cabinet meeting of the Trump administration. The images spread rapidly, with users joking about divided loyalties, mixed messages and Musk’s now-familiar taste for spectacle.

From summit stages to airport tarmacs, these were the world-leader moments that escaped protocol and took over the internet.

WATCH | Viral moments from 2025 world diplomacy that took over internet

Belarus released a video on Tuesday (Dec 30) that showed the deployment of the Russian nuclear-capable hypersonic Oreshnik missile system on its territory. The information about the deployment of the intermediate-range ballistic missile was first made earlier this month by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. The released video by the Belarusian Defence Ministry did not disclose the location of the missile systems. But it showed the mobile launchers and their crews driving along forest roads and specialist troops camouflaging the systems with netting.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Russia’s Defense Ministry claims that the “Oreshnik” missile system has already entered combat duty in Belarus. “Oreshnik” is an experimental Russian missile complex using ballistic missiles. It was first used in November 2024 during a strike on the city of Dnipro. Its reported… <a href="https://t.co/DKsjbLP8gS">pic.twitter.com/DKsjbLP8gS</a>&mdash; KyivPost (@KyivPost) <a href="https://twitter.com/KyivPost/status/2005914322187198819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This came after the alleged Ukrainian drone attack on the residence of the Russian President Vladimir Putin amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. On Monday (Dec 29), the US President Donald Trump said that his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, told him that he had been attacked. “I don’t like it. It’s not good,” Trump said. The American president conceded it was “possible” the allegation was false, and such an attack had not occurred. He added, “But President Putin told me this morning it did.”&nbsp;“I just heard about it, actually, but I don’t know about it. That would be too bad. That would not be good,” he told reporters. Describing his call with the Russian president, Trump said, “It was a very productive talk. I mean, we have a few very thorny issues, as you can imagine.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Ukraine's foreign ministry said that there was no “plausible evidence" of such an incident. “Almost a day passed and Russia still hasn’t provided any plausible evidence to its accusations of Ukraine’s alleged ‘attack on Putin’s residence.’ And they won’t. Because there’s none. No such attack happened," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga wrote in a post on X.&nbsp;“We were disappointed and concerned to see the statements by the Emirati, Indian, and Pakistani sides expressing their concerns regarding the attack that never happened. It is even more surprising given that all three states failed to issue any official statements when a real Russian missile struck the real Ukrainian government building on September 7, 2025,” Sybiga said.&nbsp;“Russia has a long record of false claims — it’s their signature tactic. For instance, Russia claimed it wouldn’t attack Ukraine in the beginning of 2022. They also often accuse others of what they themselves plan to do. Their words should never be taken at face value. Such reactions to Russia’s baseless, manipulative claims only play into Russian propaganda and encourage Moscow for more atrocities and lies,” the Ukrainian FM added.

The released video by the Belarusian Defence Ministry did not disclose the location of the missile systems. But it showed the mobile launchers and their crews driving along forest roads and specialist troops camouflaging the systems with netting.

Belarus released a video on Tuesday (Dec 30) that showed the deployment of the Russian nuclear-capable hypersonic Oreshnik missile system on its territory. The information about the deployment of the intermediate-range ballistic missile was first made earlier this month by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. The released video by the Belarusian Defence Ministry did not disclose the location of the missile systems. But it showed the mobile launchers and their crews driving along forest roads and specialist troops camouflaging the systems with netting.

The released video by the Belarusian Defence Ministry did not disclose the location of the missile systems. But it showed the mobile launchers and their crews driving along forest roads and specialist troops camouflaging the systems with netting.

WATCH: Belarus releases video of deployment of Russian Oreshnik missile system. Details here

YEARENDER 2025: Here are the most Instagrammable international destinations Indians travelled to this year

Renowned Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen, who has been living in self-imposed exile in India, reacted sharply to the death of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, saying the latter curtailed "freedom of expression" by banning her books and never allowing her to return home while in power.&nbsp;In a social media post, Nasreen pondered whether her 31-year exile would end with Khaleda Zia’s death, called for the ban on her books to be lifted, and said Bangladesh should move towards protecting freedom of expression.&nbsp;“In 1994, she sided with jihadists by filing a case for “hurting religious sentiments” against a secular, humanist, feminist, free-thinking writer. She issued an arrest warrant against the writer. And then she unjustly expelled that writer—me—from my own country. During her rule, she did not allow me to return home. Will her death bring an end to my 31-year sentence of exile? Or will unjust rulers continue to carry injustice, ruler after ruler, generation after generation?” she posted on X.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/amid-reports-of-massive-data-breach-european-space-agency-says-impact-limited-to-servers-with-unclassified-documents-1767108956986">Amid reports of massive data breach, European Space Agency says impact limited to servers with unclassified documents</a>&nbsp;Nasreen, who authored several books including ‘Lajja’ (1993), ‘Utal Hawa’ (2002), ‘Ka’ (2003) and ‘Those Dark Days’ (2004), which were prohibited during Zia's tenure and the author was subjected to pressure from fundamentalist groups and repeated death threats, leading to her fleeing the country in 1994. &nbsp;She accused the late BNP leader of supporting these radical elements to curb free expression.&nbsp;“I am thinking: with her death, will the bans on the books she had banned not be lifted? They should be lifted. She banned my Lajja in 1993. She banned Utal Hawa in 2002. She banned Ka in 2003. She banned Those Dark Days in 2004,” she wrote on X.&nbsp;Nasreen underlined Zia's rise from a housewife to prime minister, saying she led a "successful life" and did not suffer much apart from two years when Sheikh Hasina put her in jail.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Khaleda Zia has passed away. She was 80 years old. From a housewife, she became a party chief and served as the country’s prime minister for ten years. She lived a successful life—a long life. Sheikh Hasina kept her in jail for two years; apart from that period, I don’t think she suffered much after 1981. Everyone suffers from illnesses; she did too,” Nasreen said.&nbsp;Khaleda Zia, who became Bangladesh’s first female prime minister in 1991 and was one of its most dominant political figures, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness.&nbsp;

Taslima Nasreen accused the former BNP leader of siding with fundamentalists by filing a case against her and banning several of her books, actions that eventually forced her to flee the country.

Renowned Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen, who has been living in self-imposed exile in India, reacted sharply to the death of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, saying the latter curtailed "freedom of expression" by banning her books and never allowing her to return home while in power. In a social media post, Nasreen pondered whether her 31-year exile would end with Khaleda Zia’s death, called for the ban on her books to be lifted, and said Bangladesh should move towards protecting freedom of expression. “In 1994, she sided with jihadists by filing a case for “hurting religious sentiments” against a secular, humanist, feminist, free-thinking writer. She issued an arrest warrant against the writer. And then she unjustly expelled that writer—me—from my own country. During her rule, she did not allow me to return home. Will her death bring an end to my 31-year sentence of exile? Or will unjust rulers continue to carry injustice, ruler after ruler, generation after generation?” she posted on X. Also Read: Amid reports of massive data breach, European Space Agency says impact limited to servers with unclassified documents Nasreen, who authored several books including ‘Lajja’ (1993), ‘Utal Hawa’ (2002), ‘Ka’ (2003) and ‘Those Dark Days’ (2004), which were prohibited during Zia's tenure and the author was subjected to pressure from fundamentalist groups and repeated death threats, leading to her fleeing the country in 1994. She accused the late BNP leader of supporting these radical elements to curb free expression. “I am thinking: with her death, will the bans on the books she had banned not be lifted? They should be lifted. She banned my Lajja in 1993. She banned Utal Hawa in 2002. She banned Ka in 2003. She banned Those Dark Days in 2004,” she wrote on X. Nasreen underlined Zia's rise from a housewife to prime minister, saying she led a "successful life" and did not suffer much apart from two years when Sheikh Hasina put her in jail. "Khaleda Zia has passed away. She was 80 years old. From a housewife, she became a party chief and served as the country’s prime minister for ten years. She lived a successful life—a long life. Sheikh Hasina kept her in jail for two years; apart from that period, I don’t think she suffered much after 1981. Everyone suffers from illnesses; she did too,” Nasreen said. Khaleda Zia, who became Bangladesh’s first female prime minister in 1991 and was one of its most dominant political figures, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness.

Taslima Nasreen accused the former BNP leader of siding with fundamentalists by filing a case against her and banning several of her books, actions that eventually forced her to flee the country.

After Khaleda Zia’s death, Taslima Nasreen asks: ‘Will my exile end?’

Multiple major cities of the Islamic Republic of Iran, including the capital city of Tehran, erupted into massive protests on Monday (Dec 29). On Tuesday (Dec 30), students also joined the protests, initiated by shopkeepers, over the bad economic condition of the country. The protests erupted after the Iranian currency plunged to an all-time low against the US dollar. Amid this, the head of the country's central bank, Mohammad Reza Farzin, reportedly resigned.&nbsp;Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian, in his quest to appease the protestors, said on December 30 that people's livelihood is his “daily concern” and called the protestors' demands “legitimate”. The Iranian president said he has tasked Iran's interior minister “to hear the legitimate demands of the protesters through dialogue with their representatives, so that the government can act with all its might to resolve problems and respond responsibly.”&nbsp;“The livelihood of the people is my daily concern. We have fundamental actions on the agenda to reform the monetary and banking system and preserve the purchasing power of the people. I have tasked the Minister of the Interior to hear the legitimate demands of the protesters through dialogue with their representatives, so that the government can act with all its might to resolve problems and respond responsibly,” Pezeshkian wrote in a post on X.&nbsp;It all began with several traders shutting their shops down on Monday (Dec 29). They &nbsp;urged their fellow traders to do the same. According to an Associated Press report added that on Sunday, the scale of the protests was much smaller as it was limited to only two major mobile markets in Tehran.&nbsp;Moreover, Bloomberg quoted Fatemeh Mohajerani, an Iranian government spokesperson, as saying, “We see, hear, and acknowledge the protests, pressures, and crises…When people raise their voices, it means significant pressure is being put on them. We’re aware of the current situation and do not defend it," &nbsp;

The protests erupted after the Iranian currency plunged to an all-time low against the US dollar. Amid this, the head of the country's central bank, Mohammad Reza Farzin, reportedly resigned.

Multiple major cities of the Islamic Republic of Iran, including the capital city of Tehran, erupted into massive protests on Monday (Dec 29). On Tuesday (Dec 30), students also joined the protests, initiated by shopkeepers, over the bad economic condition of the country. The protests erupted after the Iranian currency plunged to an all-time low against the US dollar. Amid this, the head of the country's central bank, Mohammad Reza Farzin, reportedly resigned. Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian, in his quest to appease the protestors, said on December 30 that people's livelihood is his “daily concern” and called the protestors' demands “legitimate”. The Iranian president said he has tasked Iran's interior minister “to hear the legitimate demands of the protesters through dialogue with their representatives, so that the government can act with all its might to resolve problems and respond responsibly.” “The livelihood of the people is my daily concern. We have fundamental actions on the agenda to reform the monetary and banking system and preserve the purchasing power of the people. I have tasked the Minister of the Interior to hear the legitimate demands of the protesters through dialogue with their representatives, so that the government can act with all its might to resolve problems and respond responsibly,” Pezeshkian wrote in a post on X. It all began with several traders shutting their shops down on Monday (Dec 29). They urged their fellow traders to do the same. According to an Associated Press report added that on Sunday, the scale of the protests was much smaller as it was limited to only two major mobile markets in Tehran. Moreover, Bloomberg quoted Fatemeh Mohajerani, an Iranian government spokesperson, as saying, “We see, hear, and acknowledge the protests, pressures, and crises…When people raise their voices, it means significant pressure is being put on them. We’re aware of the current situation and do not defend it,"

The protests erupted after the Iranian currency plunged to an all-time low against the US dollar. Amid this, the head of the country's central bank, Mohammad Reza Farzin, reportedly resigned.

Shops closed, plunged currency: Here’s why Tehran is under protest | WION Explains

Following the reports of a massive data breach, the European Space Agency (ESA), in its initial statements, said that the alleged data breach impacted a very limited number of science servers, which are located outside of ESA's corporate network. The agency on Monday (Dec 30) stated that the data breach only impacted unclassified collaborative engineering activities. "ESA is aware of a recent cybersecurity issue involving servers located outside the ESA corporate network. We have initiated a forensic security analysis—currently in progress—and implemented measures to secure any potentially affected devices," the statement said.&nbsp;"Our analysis so far indicates that only a very small number of external servers may have been impacted. These servers support unclassified collaborative engineering activities within the scientific community," it added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">ESA is aware of a recent cybersecurity issue involving servers located outside the ESA corporate network. We have initiated a forensic security analysis—currently in progress—and implemented measures to secure any potentially affected devices. Our analysis so far indicates that…&mdash; European Space Agency (@esa) <a href="https://twitter.com/esa/status/2005938460448715055?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-arrests-357-is-suspects-in-nationwide-operations-amid-new-year-security-fears-1767101663138">Turkey arrests 357 IS suspects in nationwide operations amid New Year security fears</a>&nbsp;These statements follow December 26 reports that emerged on X claiming that the ESA had suffered a massive data breach, when a hacker put more than 200 gigabytes of data for sale, he used the alias "888" for the offering. &nbsp;The hacker in his sales pitch claimed that the leaked information includes source code for proprietary software, sensitive project documentation, API tokens, and hardcoded credentials.&nbsp;On December 29, the European agency confirmed the claim of a data breach and said that a forensic investigation into the matter is underway. Later, on December 30, the ESA tried to characterise the incident as a minor data breach with a limited impact.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/robots-are-dumb-humanoid-kicks-its-operator-in-the-groin-then-acts-out-his-pain-viral-video-1767074114259">Robots are dumb: Humanoid kicks its operator in the groin, then acts out his pain | Viral video</a>&nbsp;The agency underscored that all the stakeholders have been informed and vowed to provide additional information in the future. "All relevant stakeholders have been informed, and we will provide further updates as soon as additional information becomes available".&nbsp;

The ESA downplayed the impact of the data breach on December 26, when a hacker claimed to possess sensitive information and put 200 gigabytes of data up for sale.

Following the reports of a massive data breach, the European Space Agency (ESA), in its initial statements, said that the alleged data breach impacted a very limited number of science servers, which are located outside of ESA's corporate network. The agency on Monday (Dec 30) stated that the data breach only impacted unclassified collaborative engineering activities. "ESA is aware of a recent cybersecurity issue involving servers located outside the ESA corporate network. We have initiated a forensic security analysis—currently in progress—and implemented measures to secure any potentially affected devices," the statement said. "Our analysis so far indicates that only a very small number of external servers may have been impacted. These servers support unclassified collaborative engineering activities within the scientific community," it added.

The ESA downplayed the impact of the data breach on December 26, when a hacker claimed to possess sensitive information and put 200 gigabytes of data up for sale.

Amid reports of massive data breach, European Space Agency says impact limited to servers with unclassified documents

Saudi Arabia has openly criticised the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over its military actions in Yemen, calling them a serious threat to its national security. This accusation follows a series of limited airstrikes conducted by the UAE on Yemen’s Mukalla port, a move the UAE says was a misinterpretation of its intentions. The UAE explained that the strikes targeted supplies meant for Emirati forces, not separatists, as some reports suggested.&nbsp;The Saudi Foreign Ministry labeled the UAE's actions as a "dangerous escalation" and stressed that any threat to Saudi security would be met with swift retaliation. The statement followed remarks from Rashad Al Olimi, head of Yemen's Presidential Council, which is supported by Saudi Arabia. Al Olimi accused the UAE of orchestrating military operations that challenge Yemen's central government and exacerbate existing tensions in the region.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-births-fell-lowest-on-record-in-2025-won-t-it-have-enough-people-to-run-its-future-economy-1767093532021">Japan births fell lowest on record in 2025: Won't it have enough people to run its future economy?</a>&nbsp;The Saudi government specifically condemned the UAE's alleged influence over the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a separatist military group backed by the UAE. Saudi officials claim that the UAE is pushing the STC to carry out military operations near the Saudi border, a notion the UAE categorically denied, calling it an "unfounded" accusation.Tensions between the UAE and Saudi Arabia have been escalating in Yemen for months. Recently, the UAE-backed STC captured several key regions, including the oil-rich Hadramout province, prompting concerns from Saudi-backed factions about the destabilising effects on their shared fight against Houthi rebels. This has led to calls for the UAE’s withdrawal from Yemen and a formal termination of defense pacts between the two Gulf countries.<h2>US expresses concern over escalating violence</h2>The rift between the two Gulf powers is further complicated by their differing approaches to Yemen’s future. While Saudi Arabia continues to back Yemen's internationally recognised government, the UAE’s support for the STC raises doubts about its long-term intentions, especially as the STC pushes for the secession of southern Yemen. The United States has expressed concern over the escalating violence and urged both sides to engage in dialogue. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the need for diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis and avoid further destabilisation in the region.&nbsp;Saudi Arabia and the UAE, once close partners in the Yemen conflict, are now facing one of the most significant challenges to their alliance in recent years. Their shared history of military cooperation, including the 2017 blockade of Qatar, now appears strained as they navigate conflicting interests in Yemen. The ongoing conflict in Yemen has led to one of the world’s most devastating humanitarian crises, with millions suffering from the effects of prolonged warfare. As the tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE intensify, the future of Yemen remains uncertain, and the risk of further conflict looms large.

Saudi Arabia has accused the UAE of escalating tensions in Yemen by supporting separatists and carrying out ‘dangerous’ airstrikes, deepening a rift between allies

Saudi Arabia has openly criticised the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over its military actions in Yemen, calling them a serious threat to its national security. This accusation follows a series of limited airstrikes conducted by the UAE on Yemen’s Mukalla port, a move the UAE says was a misinterpretation of its intentions. The UAE explained that the strikes targeted supplies meant for Emirati forces, not separatists, as some reports suggested. The Saudi Foreign Ministry labeled the UAE's actions as a "dangerous escalation" and stressed that any threat to Saudi security would be met with swift retaliation. The statement followed remarks from Rashad Al Olimi, head of Yemen's Presidential Council, which is supported by Saudi Arabia. Al Olimi accused the UAE of orchestrating military operations that challenge Yemen's central government and exacerbate existing tensions in the region. Also Read: Japan births fell lowest on record in 2025: Won't it have enough people to run its future economy? The Saudi government specifically condemned the UAE's alleged influence over the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a separatist military group backed by the UAE. Saudi officials claim that the UAE is pushing the STC to carry out military operations near the Saudi border, a notion the UAE categorically denied, calling it an "unfounded" accusation. Tensions between the UAE and Saudi Arabia have been escalating in Yemen for months. Recently, the UAE-backed STC captured several key regions, including the oil-rich Hadramout province, prompting concerns from Saudi-backed factions about the destabilising effects on their shared fight against Houthi rebels. This has led to calls for the UAE’s withdrawal from Yemen and a formal termination of defense pacts between the two Gulf countries. US expresses concern over escalating violence The rift between the two Gulf powers is further complicated by their differing approaches to Yemen’s future. While Saudi Arabia continues to back Yemen's internationally recognised government, the UAE’s support for the STC raises doubts about its long-term intentions, especially as the STC pushes for the secession of southern Yemen. The United States has expressed concern over the escalating violence and urged both sides to engage in dialogue. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the need for diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis and avoid further destabilisation in the region. Saudi Arabia and the UAE, once close partners in the Yemen conflict, are now facing one of the most significant challenges to their alliance in recent years. Their shared history of military cooperation, including the 2017 blockade of Qatar, now appears strained as they navigate conflicting interests in Yemen. The ongoing conflict in Yemen has led to one of the world’s most devastating humanitarian crises, with millions suffering from the effects of prolonged warfare. As the tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE intensify, the future of Yemen remains uncertain, and the risk of further conflict looms large.

Saudi Arabia has accused the UAE of escalating tensions in Yemen by supporting separatists and carrying out ‘dangerous’ airstrikes, deepening a rift between allies

Saudi Arabia accuses UAE of escalating tensions in Yemen with 'highly dangerous' military actions

Ukraine on Tuesday (Dec 30) rejected the claim that the Ukrainian forces attacked the residence of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. The country's foreign ministry said that there was no “plausible evidence" of such an incident. “Almost a day passed and Russia still hasn’t provided any plausible evidence to its accusations of Ukraine’s alleged ‘attack on Putin’s residence.’ And they won’t. Because there’s none. No such attack happened," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga wrote in a post on X.&nbsp;“We were disappointed and concerned to see the statements by the Emirati, Indian, and Pakistani sides expressing their concerns regarding the attack that never happened. It is even more surprising given that all three states failed to issue any official statements when a real Russian missile struck the real Ukrainian government building on September 7, 2025,” Sybiga said. &nbsp;&nbsp;“Russia has a long record of false claims — it’s their signature tactic. For instance, Russia claimed it wouldn’t attack Ukraine in the beginning of 2022. They also often accuse others of what they themselves plan to do. Their words should never be taken at face value. Such reactions to Russia’s baseless, manipulative claims only play into Russian propaganda and encourage Moscow for more atrocities and lies,” the Ukrainian FM added.&nbsp;This came after the Kremlin on Tuesday (Dec 30) said that the alleged Ukrainian drone attack on the Russian President's residence would not change the country's stance on peace negotiations amid the over three years of war. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia would not withdraw from the negotiation process despite the attack. He said, “Russia is not withdrawing from the negotiation process. We will continue negotiations, primarily with the Americans.&nbsp;Peskov said that the alleged drone attack was not only against the Russian President Vladimir Putin's house, but also against the efforts of the US President Donald Trump to end the war. “This terrorist action is aimed at collapsing the negotiation process," Peskov told reporters. &nbsp;

Ukraine on Tuesday (Dec 30) rejected the claim that the Ukrainian forces attacked the residence of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. 

Ukraine on Tuesday (Dec 30) rejected the claim that the Ukrainian forces attacked the residence of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. The country's foreign ministry said that there was no “plausible evidence" of such an incident. “Almost a day passed and Russia still hasn’t provided any plausible evidence to its accusations of Ukraine’s alleged ‘attack on Putin’s residence.’ And they won’t. Because there’s none. No such attack happened," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga wrote in a post on X. “We were disappointed and concerned to see the statements by the Emirati, Indian, and Pakistani sides expressing their concerns regarding the attack that never happened. It is even more surprising given that all three states failed to issue any official statements when a real Russian missile struck the real Ukrainian government building on September 7, 2025,” Sybiga said. “Russia has a long record of false claims — it’s their signature tactic. For instance, Russia claimed it wouldn’t attack Ukraine in the beginning of 2022. They also often accuse others of what they themselves plan to do. Their words should never be taken at face value. Such reactions to Russia’s baseless, manipulative claims only play into Russian propaganda and encourage Moscow for more atrocities and lies,” the Ukrainian FM added. This came after the Kremlin on Tuesday (Dec 30) said that the alleged Ukrainian drone attack on the Russian President's residence would not change the country's stance on peace negotiations amid the over three years of war. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia would not withdraw from the negotiation process despite the attack. He said, “Russia is not withdrawing from the negotiation process. We will continue negotiations, primarily with the Americans. Peskov said that the alleged drone attack was not only against the Russian President Vladimir Putin's house, but also against the efforts of the US President Donald Trump to end the war. “This terrorist action is aimed at collapsing the negotiation process," Peskov told reporters.

Ukraine on Tuesday (Dec 30) rejected the claim that the Ukrainian forces attacked the residence of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. The country's foreign ministry said that there was no “plausible evidence" of such an incident.&nbsp;

‘Russia has a long record of false claims’: Ukraine FM rejects ‘drone attack on Putin’s house’ claim, says there’s ‘no plausible evidence’

A 19-year-old girl who was facing deportation from her adopted home in Denmark due to her visa-related issue had attracted the attention of the middle-aged billionaire owner of Tesla, Elon Musk, as he was publicly lusting over her. The girl, identified as Audrey Morris, is originally from Los Angeles, California. 54-year-old Musk, father of at least 14 children, made a sleazy comment on her now-deleted post, “8 or above level hotness should get an exemption.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">8 or above level hotness should get an exemption 😂&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/2005367631914860723?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“I wasn’t surprised [by Musk’s input], I guess you could say, because from the beginning, the second that my case was kind of made public, it has been about appearances and because, ‘oh, she’s blonde and she’s white!’ And so the thing he said in of itself wasn’t shocking to me, but coming from him, yes, it was definitely...I was floored.” said Morris to Daily Beast.The remark drew significant flak from the social media users, with many branding him “creepy”.&nbsp;She lamented that she hoped it would have drawn attention to the legal aspect of her case instead of her physical appearance. “It would’ve been really cool if he commented something like, ‘Oh wow, look how many academic things she’s reached,’ or whatever. That would’ve been great. It could have been so helpful,” she said. Morris, however, was granted a residency permit for 10 years; her brother and mother had citizenship.&nbsp;Being a teenager, she could not help but notice the bright side, she added, no matter what the embarrassment, if this brings attention to people who care, then it was a win for her. Morris had been living a major part of his life in Aarhus, Denmark’s second-biggest city. The prospect of her deportation was so dire that she was preparing for contingency plan to live in the US.&nbsp;“I have my grandparents and some friends in the USA. But Denmark is my home. One hundred per cent. I am as Danish as a foreigner can possibly be," she told Stifstidende in January.

A 19-year-old woman who faced deportation from Denmark has responded after Elon Musk’s now-deleted comment sparked backlash, saying the focus shifted from her legal case to her appearance.

A 19-year-old girl who was facing deportation from her adopted home in Denmark due to her visa-related issue had attracted the attention of the middle-aged billionaire owner of Tesla, Elon Musk, as he was publicly lusting over her. The girl, identified as Audrey Morris, is originally from Los Angeles, California. 54-year-old Musk, father of at least 14 children, made a sleazy comment on her now-deleted post, “8 or above level hotness should get an exemption.”

A 19-year-old woman who faced deportation from Denmark has responded after Elon Musk’s now-deleted comment sparked backlash, saying the focus shifted from her legal case to her appearance.

Teen facing deportation breaks silence after Elon Musk’s controversial comment

Turkish authorities detained 357 individuals suspected of links to the Islamic State in a nationwide operation on Tuesday (Dec 30), a day after three police officers and six militants were killed in a gunfight in northwest Turkey. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said 357 suspects were apprehended across 21 provinces in coordinated raids on Tuesday morning.&nbsp;"Just as we have never given an opportunity to those who try to bring this country to its knees with terrorism, we will never give them an opportunity in the future either," he wrote on X.&nbsp;The minister also shared footage of the operations, which shows dozens of counter terrorism officers conducting raids and detaining several people.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/medvedev-zelenskyy-year-end-attack-telegram-drone-claims-1767097825904">Russia’s Medvedev delivers scathing year-end message to Zelenskyy: 'Happy last year'</a>&nbsp;On Monday, a violent clash between police and militants led to an eight-hour siege at a house in Yalova town, south of the capital Istanbul, just a week after more than 100 suspects belonging to the Islamic State were detained with alleged plots to carry out attacks on Christmas and New Year.&nbsp;Turkey has stepped up operations against suspected IS militants this year, as the group returns to prominence globally.&nbsp;The United States launched a military strike targeting militants in northwestern Nigeria last week, while the Australian police said the two gunmen who carried out the shooting at Bondi Beach, attacking a Hanukkah event, appeared to be inspired by the Islamic State.<h2>Major cities scale back New Year celebration</h2>Several major cities have cancelled or scaled back New Year’s Eve celebrations amid heightened terror fears. Paris scrapped its Champs Élysées concert over crowd safety risks, though fireworks will continue.&nbsp;Sydney cancelled Bondi Beach events after a recent deadly terror attack. In the US, the FBI detained suspects in Lucerne Valley, California, and New Orleans, foiling alleged New Year’s Eve bombing plots targeting public places in Los Angeles and Orange counties.

Several major cities across the world, including Paris and Sydney, have cancelled or scaled back New Year celebrations amid security concerns following recent terror incidents.

Turkish authorities detained 357 individuals suspected of links to the Islamic State in a nationwide operation on Tuesday (Dec 30), a day after three police officers and six militants were killed in a gunfight in northwest Turkey. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said 357 suspects were apprehended across 21 provinces in coordinated raids on Tuesday morning. "Just as we have never given an opportunity to those who try to bring this country to its knees with terrorism, we will never give them an opportunity in the future either," he wrote on X. The minister also shared footage of the operations, which shows dozens of counter terrorism officers conducting raids and detaining several people. Also Read: Russia’s Medvedev delivers scathing year-end message to Zelenskyy: 'Happy last year' On Monday, a violent clash between police and militants led to an eight-hour siege at a house in Yalova town, south of the capital Istanbul, just a week after more than 100 suspects belonging to the Islamic State were detained with alleged plots to carry out attacks on Christmas and New Year. Turkey has stepped up operations against suspected IS militants this year, as the group returns to prominence globally. The United States launched a military strike targeting militants in northwestern Nigeria last week, while the Australian police said the two gunmen who carried out the shooting at Bondi Beach, attacking a Hanukkah event, appeared to be inspired by the Islamic State. Major cities scale back New Year celebration Several major cities have cancelled or scaled back New Year’s Eve celebrations amid heightened terror fears. Paris scrapped its Champs Élysées concert over crowd safety risks, though fireworks will continue. Sydney cancelled Bondi Beach events after a recent deadly terror attack. In the US, the FBI detained suspects in Lucerne Valley, California, and New Orleans, foiling alleged New Year’s Eve bombing plots targeting public places in Los Angeles and Orange counties.

Several major cities across the world, including Paris and Sydney, have cancelled or scaled back New Year celebrations amid security concerns following recent terror incidents.

Turkey arrests 357 IS suspects in nationwide operations amid New Year security fears

Former Russian President and Deputy Chairman of the Security Council Dmitry Medvedev posted a series of insults against Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a Telegram message as part of the year-end message. Medvedev hurled a barrage of grotesque and offensive messages, calling him a “ragamuffin monster”, expressing his desire to display his “pickled body” in Russia’s Kunstkamera museum, where Russian Tsars supposedly collected freaks for the amusement of their descendants. He called Ukrainian envoys descendants of deep space, an alien race of “dwarfs”."The kind words are still to come, when the clocks strike midnight. But I will make one wish right now, and it is not a pleasant one. Recently, some ragamuffin monster wished death on ‘one person’. It is obvious to everyone that he wants the death not just of 'one person', but of all of us and our country," said Medvedev.&nbsp;Medvedev accused Zelenskyy not only of wishing Putin “dead” but also of giving instructions for “large-scale attacks”.&nbsp;Medved ended his remark saying, "Happy last year, f**king puppet!”Russia has alleged that Ukraine launched a large-scale drone attack on President Vladimir Putin’s residence in Lake Valdai in the Novgorod region of northwestern Russia on Monday. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Lavrov claimed that Ukraine used 91 long-range drones. He claimed that Russian air defence destroyed all the drones. He also threatened in a voice message on Telegram, “such reckless actions will not go unanswered.” This attack comes just after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met US President Donald Trump in Florida as part of the preparation of a peace deal.&nbsp;

Dmitry Medvedev, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Russia-Ukraine war, Medvedev Telegram message, Russian Security Council, Putin residence drone attack, Lake Valdai, Russian air defence

Former Russian President and Deputy Chairman of the Security Council Dmitry Medvedev posted a series of insults against Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a Telegram message as part of the year-end message. Medvedev hurled a barrage of grotesque and offensive messages, calling him a “ragamuffin monster”, expressing his desire to display his “pickled body” in Russia’s Kunstkamera museum, where Russian Tsars supposedly collected freaks for the amusement of their descendants. He called Ukrainian envoys descendants of deep space, an alien race of “dwarfs”. "The kind words are still to come, when the clocks strike midnight. But I will make one wish right now, and it is not a pleasant one. Recently, some ragamuffin monster wished death on ‘one person’. It is obvious to everyone that he wants the death not just of 'one person', but of all of us and our country," said Medvedev. Medvedev accused Zelenskyy not only of wishing Putin “dead” but also of giving instructions for “large-scale attacks”. Medved ended his remark saying, "Happy last year, f**king puppet!” Russia has alleged that Ukraine launched a large-scale drone attack on President Vladimir Putin’s residence in Lake Valdai in the Novgorod region of northwestern Russia on Monday. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Lavrov claimed that Ukraine used 91 long-range drones. He claimed that Russian air defence destroyed all the drones. He also threatened in a voice message on Telegram, “such reckless actions will not go unanswered.” This attack comes just after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met US President Donald Trump in Florida as part of the preparation of a peace deal.

Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev launched a scathing year-end attack on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, accusing him of plotting large-scale strikes as Russia alleges a drone attack near President Vladimir Putin’s residence.

Russia’s Medvedev delivers scathing year-end message to Zelenskyy: 'Happy last year'

A surprising case came in the Netherlands when a teenage boy woke up from a routine knee surgery and was found speaking a foreign language instead of his native language. The 17-year-old boy has Dutch as his native language. He woke up and was found speaking only English, a language he primarily used in school. Initially, the staff at the hospital where he was admitted assumed it was a behaviour that would pass in a while, but it did not. Later on, the case was documented by doctors and was identified as an instance of foreign language syndrome, an exceptionally rare condition that remains poorly understood.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-this-terrorist-action-is-kremlin-says-russia-s-stance-on-peace-negotiation-remains-unchanged-despite-ukrainian-drone-attack-on-putin-s-house-1767096434947">Kremlin says Russia’s stance on peace negotiation remains unchanged despite ‘Ukrainian drone attack’</a>&nbsp;The boy was in a hospital for a knee surgery after he was injured playing football. The surgery was successful and safe, and there was no immediate complication. But later on, when the boy woke from general anaesthesia, he spoke exclusively in English and repeatedly insisted that he was in the United States.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-russia-has-a-long-record-of-false-claims-ukraine-fm-rejects-drone-attack-on-putin-s-house-claim-says-there-s-no-plausible-evidence-1767104656376">‘Russia has a long record of false claims’: Ukraine FM rejects ‘drone attack on Putin’s house’ claim, says there’s ‘no plausible evidence’</a>&nbsp;The boy did not even recognise his parents, and neither was able to speak or understand Dutch, his native language. According to the medical report, he had no prior psychiatric history and no relevant family medical history, apart from instances of depression on his mother’s side. Doctors diagnosed the teenager with foreign language syndrome (FLS), a condition in which patients suddenly and involuntarily switch to speaking a second language instead of their native one.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kimmel-vs-trump-late-night-host-claims-tyranny-is-booming-in-us-says-my-country-s-president-would-like-to-shut-me-up-because-1766763187731">Kimmel vs Trump: Late-night host claims ‘tyranny is booming’ in US, says ‘my country’s president would like to shut me up because...’</a>

The case was documented by doctors and was identified as an instance of foreign language syndrome, an exceptionally rare condition that remains poorly understood.

A surprising case came in the Netherlands when a teenage boy woke up from a routine knee surgery and was found speaking a foreign language instead of his native language. The 17-year-old boy has Dutch as his native language. He woke up and was found speaking only English, a language he primarily used in school. Initially, the staff at the hospital where he was admitted assumed it was a behaviour that would pass in a while, but it did not. Later on, the case was documented by doctors and was identified as an instance of foreign language syndrome, an exceptionally rare condition that remains poorly understood. Also read: Kremlin says Russia’s stance on peace negotiation remains unchanged despite ‘Ukrainian drone attack’ The boy was in a hospital for a knee surgery after he was injured playing football. The surgery was successful and safe, and there was no immediate complication. But later on, when the boy woke from general anaesthesia, he spoke exclusively in English and repeatedly insisted that he was in the United States. Also read: ‘Russia has a long record of false claims’: Ukraine FM rejects ‘drone attack on Putin’s house’ claim, says there’s ‘no plausible evidence’ The boy did not even recognise his parents, and neither was able to speak or understand Dutch, his native language. According to the medical report, he had no prior psychiatric history and no relevant family medical history, apart from instances of depression on his mother’s side. Doctors diagnosed the teenager with foreign language syndrome (FLS), a condition in which patients suddenly and involuntarily switch to speaking a second language instead of their native one. Also read: Kimmel vs Trump: Late-night host claims ‘tyranny is booming’ in US, says ‘my country’s president would like to shut me up because...’

The case was documented by doctors and was identified as an instance of foreign language syndrome, an exceptionally rare condition that remains poorly understood.

Teen boy wakes up from knee surgery speaking only foreign language, refuses to recognise parents. Here’s what doctors found

Artists are cancelling their bookings with the John F Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts ever since Donald Trump put his name in the institution on December 18. The Cookers, a Jazz ensemble scheduled to perform on New Year's Eve, cancelled their show; the group has not presented any specific reason, but has left a cryptic message on its website. However, the drummer of the band told The New York Times that the President getting involved in the renaming of the historic centre was “evidently” a factor.“Jazz was born from struggle and from a relentless insistence on freedom: freedom of thought, of expression, and of the full human voice,” read the message. "Some of us have been making this music for many decades, and that history still shapes us. We are not turning away from our audience, and do want to make sure that when we do return to the bandstand, the room is able to celebrate the full presence of the music and everyone in it."Richard Grenell, the President of the John F Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts, targeted the left in a social media post, saying that the artists were booked by the left and they preferred political activism more than the art. “Boycotting the Arts to show you support the Arts is a form of derangement syndrome,” wrote Grenell.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The artists who are now canceling shows were booked by the previous far left leadership. Their actions prove that the previous team was more concerned about booking far left political activists rather than artists willing to perform for everyone regardless of their political…&mdash; Richard Grenell (@RichardGrenell) <a href="https://twitter.com/RichardGrenell/status/2005844962769064196?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Another Jazz musician, Chuck Reed, cancelled a Christmas Eve performance after Trump's name was added to the building's signage. Grenell had threatened $1 million lawsuit for the cancellation of the event. “Your dismal ticket sales and lack of donor support, combined with your last-minute cancellation has cost us considerably. This is your official notice that we will seek $1 million in damages from you for this political stunt,” said Richard Grenell.US President Donald Trump, since his election into office, has dismissed all the board members within a couple of weeks. By February, the new board members elected Trump as the President. White House said that the board voted to rename the centre “because of the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building.”

Artists, including jazz ensemble The Cookers, are cancelling shows at the Kennedy Centre following Donald Trump’s controversial renaming of the institution.

Artists are cancelling their bookings with the John F Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts ever since Donald Trump put his name in the institution on December 18. The Cookers, a Jazz ensemble scheduled to perform on New Year's Eve, cancelled their show; the group has not presented any specific reason, but has left a cryptic message on its website. However, the drummer of the band told The New York Times that the President getting involved in the renaming of the historic centre was “evidently” a factor. “Jazz was born from struggle and from a relentless insistence on freedom: freedom of thought, of expression, and of the full human voice,” read the message. "Some of us have been making this music for many decades, and that history still shapes us. We are not turning away from our audience, and do want to make sure that when we do return to the bandstand, the room is able to celebrate the full presence of the music and everyone in it." Richard Grenell, the President of the John F Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts, targeted the left in a social media post, saying that the artists were booked by the left and they preferred political activism more than the art. “Boycotting the Arts to show you support the Arts is a form of derangement syndrome,” wrote Grenell.

Artists, including jazz ensemble The Cookers, are cancelling shows at the Kennedy Centre following Donald Trump’s controversial renaming of the institution.

Artists pull out of Kennedy Centre New Year’s eve show following Trump's renaming

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Dec 30) said that the alleged Ukrainian drone attack on the Russian President's residence would not change the country's stance on peace negotiations amid the over three years of war. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia would not withdraw from the negotiation process despite the attack. He said, “Russia is not withdrawing from the negotiation process. We will continue negotiations, primarily with the Americans.&nbsp;Peskov said that the alleged drone attack was not only against the Russian President Vladimir Putin's house, but also against the efforts of the US President Donald Trump to end the war. “This terrorist action is aimed at collapsing the negotiation process," Peskov told reporters.&nbsp;This came hours after the American President said on Monday (Dec 29) in Florida that his Russian counterpart told him that he had been attacked. “I don’t like it. It’s not good,” Trump said. The American president conceded it was “possible” the allegation was false, and such an attack had not occurred. He added, “But President Putin told me this morning it did.”&nbsp;“I just heard about it, actually, but I don’t know about it. That would be too bad. That would not be good,” he told reporters. Describing his call with the Russian president, Trump said, “It was a very productive talk. I mean, we have a few very thorny issues, as you can imagine. “We have a couple of issues that we’re going to get resolved, hopefully, and if we get them resolved, you can have peace," he added.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Ukraine on Tuesday (Dec 30) rejected the claim that the Ukrainian forces attacked the residence of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. The country's foreign ministry said that there was no “plausible evidence" of such an incident. “Almost a day passed and Russia still hasn’t provided any plausible evidence to its accusations of Ukraine’s alleged ‘attack on Putin’s residence.’ And they won’t. Because there’s none. No such attack happened," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga wrote in a post on X.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Peskov said that the alleged drone attack was not only against the Russian President Vladimir Putin house, but also against the efforts of the US President Donald Trump to end the war.

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Dec 30) said that the alleged Ukrainian drone attack on the Russian President's residence would not change the country's stance on peace negotiations amid the over three years of war. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia would not withdraw from the negotiation process despite the attack. He said, “Russia is not withdrawing from the negotiation process. We will continue negotiations, primarily with the Americans. Peskov said that the alleged drone attack was not only against the Russian President Vladimir Putin's house, but also against the efforts of the US President Donald Trump to end the war. “This terrorist action is aimed at collapsing the negotiation process," Peskov told reporters. This came hours after the American President said on Monday (Dec 29) in Florida that his Russian counterpart told him that he had been attacked. “I don’t like it. It’s not good,” Trump said. The American president conceded it was “possible” the allegation was false, and such an attack had not occurred. He added, “But President Putin told me this morning it did.” “I just heard about it, actually, but I don’t know about it. That would be too bad. That would not be good,” he told reporters. Describing his call with the Russian president, Trump said, “It was a very productive talk. I mean, we have a few very thorny issues, as you can imagine. “We have a couple of issues that we’re going to get resolved, hopefully, and if we get them resolved, you can have peace," he added. Meanwhile, Ukraine on Tuesday (Dec 30) rejected the claim that the Ukrainian forces attacked the residence of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. The country's foreign ministry said that there was no “plausible evidence" of such an incident. “Almost a day passed and Russia still hasn’t provided any plausible evidence to its accusations of Ukraine’s alleged ‘attack on Putin’s residence.’ And they won’t. Because there’s none. No such attack happened," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga wrote in a post on X.

Peskov said that the alleged drone attack was not only against the Russian President Vladimir Putin's house, but also against the efforts of the US President Donald Trump to end the war.

Kremlin says Russia’s stance on peace negotiation remains unchanged despite ‘Ukrainian drone attack’

Births in Japan for 2025 are set to fall below 670,000, the lowest number since national records began in 1899, and worse than the most pessimistic government projections. This fast population decline is raising a troubling question: Can Japan sustain its economy and society with so few young people? Here is an analysis of the symptoms and prognosis of this demographic time bomb.<h2>Japan’s population has been shrinking steadily since 2011</h2>In 2024 alone, deaths in Japan exceeded births by close to one million people. That was the first time that births fell below 700,000 for the first time since records began. Down 5.7 per cent from the previous year, this was the sharpest annual natural population decline for the Asian economic giant. The population, once 128 million, is now around 123 million and falling further.<h2>Core of the crisis: Extremely low fertility rate</h2>The Japanese fertility rate is around 1.14 children per woman, far below the replacement level of about 2.1, which is needed to maintain population stability.Economic insecurity is the main reason for women having fewer children. Stagnant wages, rising living costs, and expensive childcare are discouraging young adults from marrying or starting families. Marriage rates have fallen sharply in recent decades. Childbirth outside marriage remains socially uncommon, meaning lesser marriages directly lead to fewer births.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-pm-takaichi-sees-budget-surplus-despite-record-budget-1766814534095/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-pm-takaichi-sees-budget-surplus-despite-record-budget-1766814534095/embed</a><h2>Stressful life in Japan adding to low birth numbers</h2>Japan’s gruelling work culture of long hours and limited work-life balance are making parenting difficult. Gender inequality puts the childcare burden almost entirely on women. But more women are opting for education, careers, and independence. This leads to delays or rejections of traditional family models.<h2>Labour shortages hit Japan economy</h2>With lesser young people adding to the workforce every year, sectors such as manufacturing, construction, agriculture, caregiving, and services are seeing labour shortages. Production capacity is going down. Supply chains are strained. Costs for businesses are increasing.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/faced-with-an-ageing-population-japan-to-open-doors-to-1-2m-foreign-workers-1766477397006">Faced with an ageing population, Japan to open doors to 1.2M+ foreign workers</a><h2>A rapidly ageing population puts pressure on public finances</h2>As of 2025, Japanese aged above 65 accounted for nearly 29 per cent of the total population. The fewer people in the workforce are support rising pension, healthcare, and eldercare expenses of the government. &nbsp;Domestic consumption is weak,as &nbsp;there are fewer young families. Long-term economic growth and innovation could be dampened by these factors.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/elon-musk-predicts-this-country-will-lose-1-million-people-in-2025-claims-ai-is-the-only-hope-netizens-slam-his-ad-1754898547397">Elon Musk predicts THIS country will lose 1 million people in 2025, claims 'AI is the only hope,' netizens slam his 'ad'</a><h2>Immigration: A cautious approach for replacement population</h2>Japan is making cautious steps towards immigration as a possible population replacement mechanism.Foreign workers are at a record high in Japan. Visa programmes for skilled and semi-skilled workers have been expanded, in industries with acute labour shortages. For instance, the government recently proposed accepting up to 1.23 million foreign workers by fiscal 2028 under a new Employment for Skill Development system and other programmes.Immigration is framed as a labour solution rather than a path to large-scale permanent settlement, meaning, foreigners can work but not necessarily start families.&nbsp; This is due to cultural concerns, language barriers, and political sensitivities. There are fears that the gradual replacement migration could alter the cultural fabric of a society long defined by homogeneity.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/japan-confronts-labor-shortages-as-elderly-population-reaches-record-high-760057">Japan confronts labor shortages as elderly population reaches record high</a><h2>Will Japan economy fail without enough people to run its future economy?</h2>A total economic collapse is unlikely, but Japan faces the real risk of stagnation. The country is a technological powerhouse, leading in automation and robotics.&nbsp;This can partially compensate for labour shortages. &nbsp;But machines cannot fully replace human workers, especially in sectors like healthcare, education, and service industries that rely on human interaction and connection.Japan’s population crisis is no longer a distant problem but clear and present danger. How the country balances automation, social reform, and immigration will determine whether this population timebomb leads to managed adaptation or economic gloom.

Japan births for the year 2025 are reported to have fallen below 670,000, setting a new record. This is straining the economy, forcing reliance on automation and immigration.


Births in Japan for 2025 are set to fall below 670,000, the lowest number since national records began in 1899, and worse than the most pessimistic government projections. This fast population decline is raising a troubling question: Can Japan sustain its economy and society with so few young people? Here is an analysis of the symptoms and prognosis of this demographic time bomb. Japan’s population has been shrinking steadily since 2011 In 2024 alone, deaths in Japan exceeded births by close to one million people. That was the first time that births fell below 700,000 for the first time since records began. Down 5.7 per cent from the previous year, this was the sharpest annual natural population decline for the Asian economic giant. The population, once 128 million, is now around 123 million and falling further. Core of the crisis: Extremely low fertility rate The Japanese fertility rate is around 1.14 children per woman, far below the replacement level of about 2.1, which is needed to maintain population stability. Economic insecurity is the main reason for women having fewer children. Stagnant wages, rising living costs, and expensive childcare are discouraging young adults from marrying or starting families. Marriage rates have fallen sharply in recent decades. Childbirth outside marriage remains socially uncommon, meaning lesser marriages directly lead to fewer births. https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-pm-takaichi-sees-budget-surplus-despite-record-budget-1766814534095/embed Stressful life in Japan adding to low birth numbers Japan’s gruelling work culture of long hours and limited work-life balance are making parenting difficult. Gender inequality puts the childcare burden almost entirely on women. But more women are opting for education, careers, and independence. This leads to delays or rejections of traditional family models. Labour shortages hit Japan economy With lesser young people adding to the workforce every year, sectors such as manufacturing, construction, agriculture, caregiving, and services are seeing labour shortages. Production capacity is going down. Supply chains are strained. Costs for businesses are increasing. Also read: Faced with an ageing population, Japan to open doors to 1.2M+ foreign workers A rapidly ageing population puts pressure on public finances As of 2025, Japanese aged above 65 accounted for nearly 29 per cent of the total population. The fewer people in the workforce are support rising pension, healthcare, and eldercare expenses of the government. Domestic consumption is weak,as there are fewer young families. Long-term economic growth and innovation could be dampened by these factors. Also read: Elon Musk predicts THIS country will lose 1 million people in 2025, claims 'AI is the only hope,' netizens slam his 'ad' Immigration: A cautious approach for replacement population Japan is making cautious steps towards immigration as a possible population replacement mechanism. Foreign workers are at a record high in Japan. Visa programmes for skilled and semi-skilled workers have been expanded, in industries with acute labour shortages. For instance, the government recently proposed accepting up to 1.23 million foreign workers by fiscal 2028 under a new Employment for Skill Development system and other programmes. Immigration is framed as a labour solution rather than a path to large-scale permanent settlement, meaning, foreigners can work but not necessarily start families. This is due to cultural concerns, language barriers, and political sensitivities. There are fears that the gradual replacement migration could alter the cultural fabric of a society long defined by homogeneity. Also read: Japan confronts labor shortages as elderly population reaches record high Will Japan economy fail without enough people to run its future economy? A total economic collapse is unlikely, but Japan faces the real risk of stagnation. The country is a technological powerhouse, leading in automation and robotics. This can partially compensate for labour shortages. But machines cannot fully replace human workers, especially in sectors like healthcare, education, and service industries that rely on human interaction and connection. Japan’s population crisis is no longer a distant problem but clear and present danger. How the country balances automation, social reform, and immigration will determine whether this population timebomb leads to managed adaptation or economic gloom.

Japan births for the year 2025 are reported to have fallen below 670,000, setting a new record. This is straining the economy, forcing reliance on automation and immigration. &nbsp;

Japan births fell lowest on record in 2025: Won't it have enough people to run its future economy?

A member of the Ansar, Bajendra Biswas (40), was fatally shot by a fellow member in Bhaluka upazila, Mymensingh. The suspect, Noman Mia, has been arrested by authorities, according to reports from Bangladesh media. Monindra Nath, Acting Secretary General of the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council, confirmed the incident to news agency ANI.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">An Ansar member named Bajendra Biswas (40) was killed after being shot by a colleague in Bhaluka upazila of Mymensingh. The accused Ansar member, Noman Mia, has been arrested, reports Bangladesh Media &quot;Yes, the incident is confirmed&quot;, Monindra Nath, Acting Secretary General of…&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2005956704064967028?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Earlier, a 29-year-old man, Amrit Mondal, also known as Samrat, was beaten to death by locals in the Pangsha Upazila of Rajbari on the night of Wednesday, December 24. The incident took place around 11 pm at the Hossaindanga Old Market area. According to Pangsha Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge Sheikh Moinul Islam, Amrit was the leader of a notorious criminal group called “Samrat Bahini.” He was the son of Akshay Mondal, a resident of Hossaindanga village.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cm-mamata-facilitating-infiltration-for-electoral-gains-bengal-s-demography-altered-amit-shah-bjp-tmc-amit-shah-modi-govt-1767095868081">CM Mamata facilitating infiltration for electoral gains, Bengal’s demography dangerously altered: Amit Shah</a>&nbsp;Local authorities revealed that one of Amrit’s accomplices, Salim Sheikh, was apprehended by the residents, who found him carrying two firearms. He was then handed over to the police. Salim, a resident of Bosa-Kushtia village in Pangsha, is the son of Islam Sheikh. Police and local sources indicated that Amrit had formed an armed gang under his name and was involved in extortion and other criminal activities in the area. After fleeing to India during the tenure of the Awami League government, Amrit had continued his operations remotely but had recently returned to the region.&nbsp;On the night of the incident, Amrit allegedly visited a home in the old market area, demanding ransom. When the homeowner refused to comply, Amrit's gang members reportedly came back later but were unable to find the homeowner. Instead, they reportedly attacked the homeowner’s son. The family then raised an alarm, shouting "robber," which alerted nearby residents who gathered and assaulted Amrit, leading to his death at the scene. His accomplices managed to flee, but Salim was captured by the locals.&nbsp;Sheikh Moinul Islam confirmed that Amrit had several criminal charges against him, including murder. "His associate Selim was arrested with a pistol and a one-shot gun. The body has been sent for autopsy, and multiple cases are being prepared in connection with this incident," he added.

Another Hindu man killed in Bangladesh days after Dipu Das' lynching; accused arrested

A member of the Ansar, Bajendra Biswas (40), was fatally shot by a fellow member in Bhaluka upazila, Mymensingh. The suspect, Noman Mia, has been arrested by authorities, according to reports from Bangladesh media. Monindra Nath, Acting Secretary General of the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council, confirmed the incident to news agency ANI.

Monindra Nath, Acting Secretary General of Bangladesh Hindu Buddah Christian Unity Council, confirmed the incident. Earlier, a 29-year-old man, Amrit Mondal, also known as Samrat, was beaten to death by locals in the Pangsha Upazila of Rajbari on the night of Wednesday (December 24)

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will be attending the funeral ceremony of former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia. PM Modi extended condolences over her demise. "Deeply saddened to learn about the passing away of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia in Dhaka", PM Modi tweeted. Khaleda, who was Bangladesh's first female Prime Minister, has been a key figure in its turbulent political history. She passed away early on Tuesday (December 30) at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka after a prolonged illness, her Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) announced.&nbsp;She was 80. Zia, who had been hospitalised since late November with complications including advanced liver cirrhosis, heart issues, diabetes, and lung infections, died at around 6:00 am local time shortly after dawn prayers. Her son Tarique Rahman, recently returned from 17 years in exile, and other family members were by her side. A three-day state mourning has been announced in the country. Zia's funeral prayers (namaz-e-janaza) are scheduled for Wednesday afternoon at the South Plaza of the National Parliament in Dhaka, followed by burial with full state honours beside her late husband, assassinated former President Ziaur Rahman, at Zia Udyan.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Deeply saddened to learn about the passing away of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia in Dhaka. Our sincerest condolences to her family and all the people of Bangladesh. May the Almighty grant her family the fortitude to bear this tragic loss. As the… <a href="https://t.co/BLg6K52vak">pic.twitter.com/BLg6K52vak</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/2005855695787507912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Born in 1945, Khaleda Zia led a relatively private life until her husband Ziaur Rahman's assassination in a 1981 military coup. Thrust into leadership, she took the helm of the BNP in 1984 and became a fierce opponent of military ruler Hussain Muhammad Ershad's regime. In 1991, she made history as Bangladesh's first woman prime minister, serving until 1996. She returned for a second term from 2001 to 2006, leading a four-party alliance to victory.&nbsp;&nbsp;Like her arch-rival Sheikh Hasina, who was ousted in 2024 and is now in exile, Zia's career embodied the intense "battling begums" rivalry that defined Bangladeshi politics for decades. Released from detention in 2024 after Hasina's fall and acquitted of remaining corruption charges in early 2025, Zia had expressed intentions to campaign ahead of the upcoming elections, expected in early 2026. Her death marks the end of an era in Bangladesh's fractious democracy. Pakistan FM Ishaq Dar is also expected to attend the funeral of Khaleda Zia.

India Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to attend Khaleda Zia's funeral

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will be attending the funeral ceremony of former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia. PM Modi extended condolences over her demise. "Deeply saddened to learn about the passing away of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia in Dhaka", PM Modi tweeted. Khaleda, who was Bangladesh's first female Prime Minister, has been a key figure in its turbulent political history. She passed away early on Tuesday (December 30) at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka after a prolonged illness, her Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) announced. She was 80. Zia, who had been hospitalised since late November with complications including advanced liver cirrhosis, heart issues, diabetes, and lung infections, died at around 6:00 am local time shortly after dawn prayers. Her son Tarique Rahman, recently returned from 17 years in exile, and other family members were by her side. A three-day state mourning has been announced in the country. Zia's funeral prayers (namaz-e-janaza) are scheduled for Wednesday afternoon at the South Plaza of the National Parliament in Dhaka, followed by burial with full state honours beside her late husband, assassinated former President Ziaur Rahman, at Zia Udyan.

Zia, who had been hospitalised since late November with complications including advanced liver cirrhosis, heart issues, diabetes, and lung infections, died at around 6:00 am local time shortly after dawn prayers

A former Russian banking tycoon has said a single Instagram post criticising the Ukraine war cost him $9 billion, which led him selling his stake in his bank at a steep discount after the post. He labelled the incident a proof of suppression by the Russian government.&nbsp;The banking tycoon, identified as Oleg Tinkov, a Russian-born entrepreneur and founder of Tinkoff Bank, was once among the richest bankers in the country. In 2022, he described the war in Ukraine as “insane” on Instagram, criticised the Russian military as corrupt and unprepared, and claimed most Russians oppose the conflict, while those backing it do not understand the reality.&nbsp;He also claimed that 90 per cent of Russians don't want war, but the remaining 10 per cent who support the conflict are “morons”. “I do not see ONE beneficiary of this insane war!” Tinkov wrote in Russian in his Instagram post, as per CNBC. “Innocent people and soldiers are dying. The generals woke up from a hangover, realised they had a sh---y army.” “And how will the army be good if everything else in the country is s--t and dirty in nepotism,” he added.<h3>Coercion under threat</h3>Tinkov revealed in a recent conversation with the BBC that days after he wrote in a post on Instagram, he received a phone call from the Kremlin. He was informed in the call that either his stake in the bank would be sold and his name from the brand would be removed, or the bank would be nationalised.&nbsp;Tinkov underscored that the intention of the call was not a negotiation but coercion under threat. “I couldn’t negotiate the price. I was like a hostage,” he said, The New York Times reported. Soon after his Instagram post, he ended up selling his stake in the bank in April 2022.​&nbsp;He also told the BBC that the forced sale priced his stake at just about 3 per cen of its true value, wiping out nearly $9 billion of his wealth. Following the deal, Tinkov left Russia and later gave up his Russian citizenship.&nbsp;

Oleg Tinkov, a Russian-born entrepreneur and founder of Tinkoff Bank, was once among the richest bankers in the country. In 2022, he described the war in Ukraine as “insane” on Instagram, criticised the Russian military as corrupt and unprepared.

A former Russian banking tycoon has said a single Instagram post criticising the Ukraine war cost him $9 billion, which led him selling his stake in his bank at a steep discount after the post. He labelled the incident a proof of suppression by the Russian government. The banking tycoon, identified as Oleg Tinkov, a Russian-born entrepreneur and founder of Tinkoff Bank, was once among the richest bankers in the country. In 2022, he described the war in Ukraine as “insane” on Instagram, criticised the Russian military as corrupt and unprepared, and claimed most Russians oppose the conflict, while those backing it do not understand the reality. He also claimed that 90 per cent of Russians don't want war, but the remaining 10 per cent who support the conflict are “morons”. “I do not see ONE beneficiary of this insane war!” Tinkov wrote in Russian in his Instagram post, as per CNBC. “Innocent people and soldiers are dying. The generals woke up from a hangover, realised they had a sh---y army.” “And how will the army be good if everything else in the country is s--t and dirty in nepotism,” he added. Coercion under threat Tinkov revealed in a recent conversation with the BBC that days after he wrote in a post on Instagram, he received a phone call from the Kremlin. He was informed in the call that either his stake in the bank would be sold and his name from the brand would be removed, or the bank would be nationalised. Tinkov underscored that the intention of the call was not a negotiation but coercion under threat. “I couldn’t negotiate the price. I was like a hostage,” he said, The New York Times reported. Soon after his Instagram post, he ended up selling his stake in the bank in April 2022. He also told the BBC that the forced sale priced his stake at just about 3 per cen of its true value, wiping out nearly $9 billion of his wealth. Following the deal, Tinkov left Russia and later gave up his Russian citizenship.

Oleg Tinkov, a Russian-born entrepreneur and founder of Tinkoff Bank, was once among the richest bankers in the country. In 2022, he described the war in Ukraine as “insane” on Instagram, criticised the Russian military as corrupt and unprepared.

‘I was like a hostage’: Russian billionaire says a Instagram post on Ukraine war cost him $9 billion

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