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Recent protests outside diplomatic missions of India and Bangladesh have caused growing tensions between the two countries, marking a significant downturn in their bilateral relations. This has happened in the backdrop of various developments involving former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s exile in India, as well as increasing security concerns that both governments have expressed.&nbsp;In the past few days, both India and Bangladesh have summoned each other's envoys, leading to the shutdown of visa centers in both countries due to protests outside their respective high commissions. While protests in Bangladesh saw police stopping demonstrators marching toward the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, the Indian High Commission in New Delhi faced significant opposition, especially from groups like the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), protesting the alleged persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh. This protest came in the wake of the recent lynching of a Hindu man named Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh.&nbsp;Tensions have only intensified with the political unrest in Bangladesh, particularly following the death of prominent student leader Sharif Osman Hadi. His assassination sparked widespread violence, further destabilizing the country.<h2>Here is a detailed timeline of key events that have taken place so far</h2><ul><li>November 17: A Bangladeshi court sentences Sheikh Hasina to death in connection with a violent student-led uprising in 2024. India’s foreign ministry expresses concern about the stability in Bangladesh, while Dhaka demands the return of the deposed PM from India.</li><li>December 12: Sharif Osman Hadi, a key student leader involved in the protests against Hasina, is shot by masked gunmen while leaving a mosque in Dhaka.</li><li>December 15: NCP leader Hasnat Abdullah makes controversial remarks suggesting that Bangladesh could harbour separatists and sever ties with India, particularly affecting the northeastern states of India.</li><li>December 17: A protest march demanding the return of Hasina and other exiled leaders is blocked by Dhaka police. India reacts by summoning Bangladesh’s high commissioner and voicing concerns over the security of its mission in Dhaka.</li><li>December 18: Osman Hadi succumbs to his injuries, sparking new protests across Bangladesh. Meanwhile, a Hindu worker named Dipu Chandra Das is lynched by a mob, allegedly due to an insult to religion, though later reports indicate a workplace dispute may have been the cause.</li><li>December 20: Protests in New Delhi lead to a group gathering outside the Bangladesh mission. Security concerns prompt the closure of India’s visa application center in Chattogram, Bangladesh.</li><li>December 21: India condemns the “brutal killing” of Dipu Chandra Das and expresses deep concern over the situation in Bangladesh. India also rejects allegations of a security breach at the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi.</li><li>December 22: Further protests occur at Bangladesh’s visa centers in Siliguri, West Bengal. In response, Bangladesh suspends visa services in Siliguri, Delhi, and Tripura.</li><li>December 23: Bangladesh’s foreign ministry summons the Indian envoy, citing incidents of vandalism at Bangladesh’s visa centers and protests outside its high commission as reasons for the worsening diplomatic environment.</li></ul>

Sheikh Hasina’s exile, the killing of Hadi, and Hindu lynching: A complete timeline of what happened between India-Bangladesh. All you need to know

Recent protests outside diplomatic missions of India and Bangladesh have caused growing tensions between the two countries, marking a significant downturn in their bilateral relations. This has happened in the backdrop of various developments involving former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s exile in India, as well as increasing security concerns that both governments have expressed. In the past few days, both India and Bangladesh have summoned each other's envoys, leading to the shutdown of visa centers in both countries due to protests outside their respective high commissions. While protests in Bangladesh saw police stopping demonstrators marching toward the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, the Indian High Commission in New Delhi faced significant opposition, especially from groups like the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), protesting the alleged persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh. This protest came in the wake of the recent lynching of a Hindu man named Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh. Tensions have only intensified with the political unrest in Bangladesh, particularly following the death of prominent student leader Sharif Osman Hadi. His assassination sparked widespread violence, further destabilizing the country. Here is a detailed timeline of key events that have taken place so far November 17: A Bangladeshi court sentences Sheikh Hasina to death in connection with a violent student-led uprising in 2024. India’s foreign ministry expresses concern about the stability in Bangladesh, while Dhaka demands the return of the deposed PM from India. December 12: Sharif Osman Hadi, a key student leader involved in the protests against Hasina, is shot by masked gunmen while leaving a mosque in Dhaka. December 15: NCP leader Hasnat Abdullah makes controversial remarks suggesting that Bangladesh could harbour separatists and sever ties with India, particularly affecting the northeastern states of India. December 17: A protest march demanding the return of Hasina and other exiled leaders is blocked by Dhaka police. India reacts by summoning Bangladesh’s high commissioner and voicing concerns over the security of its mission in Dhaka. December 18: Osman Hadi succumbs to his injuries, sparking new protests across Bangladesh. Meanwhile, a Hindu worker named Dipu Chandra Das is lynched by a mob, allegedly due to an insult to religion, though later reports indicate a workplace dispute may have been the cause. December 20: Protests in New Delhi lead to a group gathering outside the Bangladesh mission. Security concerns prompt the closure of India’s visa application center in Chattogram, Bangladesh. December 21: India condemns the “brutal killing” of Dipu Chandra Das and expresses deep concern over the situation in Bangladesh. India also rejects allegations of a security breach at the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi. December 22: Further protests occur at Bangladesh’s visa centers in Siliguri, West Bengal. In response, Bangladesh suspends visa services in Siliguri, Delhi, and Tripura. December 23: Bangladesh’s foreign ministry summons the Indian envoy, citing incidents of vandalism at Bangladesh’s visa centers and protests outside its high commission as reasons for the worsening diplomatic environment.

Tensions between India and Bangladesh have escalated due to protests at diplomatic missions, security concerns, and recent violence, straining bilateral ties. Here is the detailed timeline of the events that took place

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Tuesday (Dec 23) said that the Australian government will extend an invitation to the Israeli head of state to visit the country following a mass shooting targeting a Jewish gathering in the Bondi Beach area, claiming the lives of 15 people and injuring many. The Authorities later described the incident as an antisemitic terrorist attack.&nbsp;"Prime Minister Albanese advised President (Isaac) Herzog that, upon the recommendation of the Australian government, the Governor-General of Australia will issue an invitation in accordance with protocol to President Herzog to visit Australia as soon as possible," Albanese said in a post on X.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bondi-beach-attack-recalling-major-past-shooting-incidents-in-australia-1765709199317">Bondi Beach attack: Recalling major past shooting incidents in Australia</a>&nbsp;Albanese’s government has faced criticism over its response to rising antisemitism in the period leading up to the Bondi attack. The Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, directly blamed the attack on the government’s response to antisemitism and its recognition of a Palestinian state.&nbsp;Following the December 14 attack, Herzog urged Canberra to “fight the enormous wave of antisemitism plaguing Australian society”.&nbsp;The Israeli president’s office said he spoke with Albanese by phone on Tuesday and confirmed that the Australian government and the Jewish community had invited him to visit Australia. No date was immediately set for the visit.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-was-bangladeshi-hindu-man-dipu-chandra-lynched-authorities-say-no-proof-of-blasphemy-found-1766481361946">Bangladeshi Hindu man was not lynched due to 'blasphemy', probe finds 'factory dispute...'</a>&nbsp; On December 14, two gunmen opened indiscriminate fire at Sydney's Bondi Beach, killing 15 people and leaving several injured. The shooting targeted a Jewish Hanukkah event at Australia’s most famous beach when people from the Jewish community gathered to celebrate the festival.&nbsp;The incident marked the deadliest shooting incident in Australia since the Port Arthur attack in 1995, when 34 people were killed, and scores were injured.

The Australian Prime Minister said his government will invite Israeli President Isaac Herzog following a terror attack targeting the Jewish community at Sydney’s Bondi Beach.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Tuesday (Dec 23) said that the Australian government will extend an invitation to the Israeli head of state to visit the country following a mass shooting targeting a Jewish gathering in the Bondi Beach area, claiming the lives of 15 people and injuring many. The Authorities later described the incident as an antisemitic terrorist attack. "Prime Minister Albanese advised President (Isaac) Herzog that, upon the recommendation of the Australian government, the Governor-General of Australia will issue an invitation in accordance with protocol to President Herzog to visit Australia as soon as possible," Albanese said in a post on X. Also Read: Bondi Beach attack: Recalling major past shooting incidents in Australia Albanese’s government has faced criticism over its response to rising antisemitism in the period leading up to the Bondi attack. The Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, directly blamed the attack on the government’s response to antisemitism and its recognition of a Palestinian state. Following the December 14 attack, Herzog urged Canberra to “fight the enormous wave of antisemitism plaguing Australian society”. The Israeli president’s office said he spoke with Albanese by phone on Tuesday and confirmed that the Australian government and the Jewish community had invited him to visit Australia. No date was immediately set for the visit. Also Read: Bangladeshi Hindu man was not lynched due to 'blasphemy', probe finds 'factory dispute...' On December 14, two gunmen opened indiscriminate fire at Sydney's Bondi Beach, killing 15 people and leaving several injured. The shooting targeted a Jewish Hanukkah event at Australia’s most famous beach when people from the Jewish community gathered to celebrate the festival. The incident marked the deadliest shooting incident in Australia since the Port Arthur attack in 1995, when 34 people were killed, and scores were injured.

The Australian Prime Minister said his government will invite Israeli President Isaac Herzog following a terror attack targeting the Jewish community at Sydney’s Bondi Beach.

After Bondi Beach terror attack, Australia PM to invite Israeli president to visit

Myanmar's junta (the ruling committee of senior military leaders) is forcing people to vote in the upcoming military-controlled elections in the country, using violence and intimidation, the United Nations said. The organisation said the armed opposition groups are using similar tactics to keep people away.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brian-walshe-gets-life-in-prison-for-killing-his-wife-all-about-the-incomprehensible-murder-that-shook-america-in-2023-1766079909815">Brian Walshe gets life in prison for killing his wife. All about the ‘incomprehensible’ murder that shook America in 2023</a>&nbsp;"The military authorities in Myanmar must stop using brutal violence to compel people to vote and stop arresting people for expressing any dissenting views," United Nations rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement on Tuesday (Dec 23). International monitors have dismissed the phased month-long vote as a rebranding of martial rule.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trump-epstein-were-young-single-playboys-susie-wiles-huge-revelation-on-nasty-island-says-she-knew-1765913377824">'Trump, Epstein were young, single PLAYBOYS': Susie Wiles' HUGE revelation on 'nasty island', says she knew...</a>&nbsp;Turk told AFP last month that holding elections in Myanmar under the current circumstances was "unfathomable". On Tuesday, he warned that civilians were being threatened by both the military authorities and armed opposition groups over their participation in the polls.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-sleepy-croocked-joe-wh-plaque-mocks-former-us-president-joe-biden-calls-him-worst-president-in-american-history-1766060577735">‘Sleepy, crooked Joe’: WH plaque mocks former US president Joe Biden, calls him ‘worst president in American history’</a>&nbsp;"Forcing displaced people to undertake unsafe and involuntary returns is a human rights violation," Turk stressed. "These elections are clearly taking place in an environment of violence and repression," Turk said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trump-has-an-alcoholic-s-personality-us-president-s-chief-of-staff-susie-wiles-makes-big-claims-in-disingenuously-framed-interview-1765912672199">‘Trump has an alcoholic's personality’: US president’s chief of staff, Susie Wiles, makes big claims in ‘disingenuously framed’ interview</a>&nbsp;"There are no conditions for the exercise of the rights of freedom of expression, association or peaceful assembly that allow for the free and meaningful participation of the people," he added.

United Nations rights chief Volker Turk warned that civilians were being threatened by both the military authorities and armed opposition groups over their participation in the polls.

Myanmar's junta (the ruling committee of senior military leaders) is forcing people to vote in the upcoming military-controlled elections in the country, using violence and intimidation, the United Nations said. The organisation said the armed opposition groups are using similar tactics to keep people away. Also read: Brian Walshe gets life in prison for killing his wife. All about the ‘incomprehensible’ murder that shook America in 2023 "The military authorities in Myanmar must stop using brutal violence to compel people to vote and stop arresting people for expressing any dissenting views," United Nations rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement on Tuesday (Dec 23). International monitors have dismissed the phased month-long vote as a rebranding of martial rule. Also read: 'Trump, Epstein were young, single PLAYBOYS': Susie Wiles' HUGE revelation on 'nasty island', says she knew... Turk told AFP last month that holding elections in Myanmar under the current circumstances was "unfathomable". On Tuesday, he warned that civilians were being threatened by both the military authorities and armed opposition groups over their participation in the polls. Also read: ‘Sleepy, crooked Joe’: WH plaque mocks former US president Joe Biden, calls him ‘worst president in American history’ "Forcing displaced people to undertake unsafe and involuntary returns is a human rights violation," Turk stressed. "These elections are clearly taking place in an environment of violence and repression," Turk said. Also read: ‘Trump has an alcoholic's personality’: US president’s chief of staff, Susie Wiles, makes big claims in ‘disingenuously framed’ interview "There are no conditions for the exercise of the rights of freedom of expression, association or peaceful assembly that allow for the free and meaningful participation of the people," he added.

United Nations rights chief Volker Turk warned that civilians were being threatened by both the military authorities and armed opposition groups over their participation in the polls.

Myanmar junta is using ‘brutal violence to compel people to vote’: UN

US President Donald Trump has renewed his struggle to include Greenland in US territory, urging its importance in the US national security. He has appointed Jeff Landry as a special envoy to Greenland. This has added fuel to the ongoing tension, triggering EU fury. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen responded, “border is not for sale”. Landry took to his social media account, wrote an official X account, thanked Trump and wrote, "It’s an honour to serve you in this volunteer position to make Greenland a part of the US. This in no way affects my position as Governor of Louisiana!"Denmark's Lars Løkke Rasmussen said he is "deeply upset" by the statements made by Landry. “I am deeply upset by this appointment of a special envoy. And I ‌am particularly upset by his statements, which we find completely unacceptable,” said Lars Løkke Rasmussen.<h2>Who is Jeff Landry?</h2>Jeff Landry is a voracious conservative speaker and the Governor of Louisiana. He started of as a Deputy Sheriff during his college days, and one term in the US Congress of Louisiana State, had been climbing up the ladder gradually. He is a lawyer by profession. Before becoming the Louisiana Governor, he served as the Attorney General of Louisiana and had been involved in several high-profile legal battles with Democrats, such as bringing back Capital punishment in Louisiana and carrying it out using Nitrogen gas. Earlier in 2025, he passed a litigation making the Ten Commandments of the Bible to be displayed in all classrooms; however, it was later blocked. &nbsp;His other confrontational litigation includes pandemic vaccine mandates, environmental regulations, and defending the strictest abortion law. While his time in the US Congress between 2011-13, he pushed to stop Queer and Gender studies at Louisiana University.He is a Trump loyalist. Last month, he reportedly asked Trump for National Guard troops in Louisiana to arrest 5,000 undocumented immigrants. But has only managed to arrest only few. However, he had no experience in international relations, so his appointment as &nbsp;US envoy to Greenland came as a surprise to many, even among Republicans.&nbsp;&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump has appointed Jeff Landry as the US special envoy as a renewed push to annex Greenland. His appointment has drawn bipartisan criticisms and triggered European leaders. 

US President Donald Trump has renewed his struggle to include Greenland in US territory, urging its importance in the US national security. He has appointed Jeff Landry as a special envoy to Greenland. This has added fuel to the ongoing tension, triggering EU fury. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen responded, “border is not for sale”. Landry took to his social media account, wrote an official X account, thanked Trump and wrote, "It’s an honour to serve you in this volunteer position to make Greenland a part of the US. This in no way affects my position as Governor of Louisiana!" Denmark's Lars Løkke Rasmussen said he is "deeply upset" by the statements made by Landry. “I am deeply upset by this appointment of a special envoy. And I ‌am particularly upset by his statements, which we find completely unacceptable,” said Lars Løkke Rasmussen. Who is Jeff Landry? Jeff Landry is a voracious conservative speaker and the Governor of Louisiana. He started of as a Deputy Sheriff during his college days, and one term in the US Congress of Louisiana State, had been climbing up the ladder gradually. He is a lawyer by profession. Before becoming the Louisiana Governor, he served as the Attorney General of Louisiana and had been involved in several high-profile legal battles with Democrats, such as bringing back Capital punishment in Louisiana and carrying it out using Nitrogen gas. Earlier in 2025, he passed a litigation making the Ten Commandments of the Bible to be displayed in all classrooms; however, it was later blocked. His other confrontational litigation includes pandemic vaccine mandates, environmental regulations, and defending the strictest abortion law. While his time in the US Congress between 2011-13, he pushed to stop Queer and Gender studies at Louisiana University. He is a Trump loyalist. Last month, he reportedly asked Trump for National Guard troops in Louisiana to arrest 5,000 undocumented immigrants. But has only managed to arrest only few. However, he had no experience in international relations, so his appointment as US envoy to Greenland came as a surprise to many, even among Republicans.

US President Donald Trump has appointed Jeff Landry as the US special envoy as a renewed push to annex Greenland. His appointment has drawn bipartisan criticisms and triggered European leaders.&nbsp;

Who is Jeff Landry? Why did his appointment trigger Denmark fury?

South Korea’s push into private orbital launch suffered a blow on Monday (December 22) night after Innospace’s Hanbit-Nano rocket failed shortly after liftoff, ending its maiden flight prematurely. The launch, carried out from Brazil’s Alcantara Space Centre, was poised to be a historic moment, the first attempt by a South Korean private firm to reach orbit. Instead, the 17-metre rocket lost stability roughly a minute into the flight and crashed back to Earth, according to independent tracking data.&nbsp;Hanbit-Nano lifted off at 8:13 pm EST, but soon encountered an unspecified anomaly. Innospace confirmed that the mission did not proceed as planned and abruptly ended its live broadcast, saying further details would be shared after an internal review. Developed for the booming small-satellite launch market, Hanbit-Nano is a two-stage vehicle. Its first stage uses liquid oxygen and paraffin, while the upper stage is designed to operate in two variants, one with the same propellants and another powered by liquid oxygen and liquid methane, a combination that is gaining traction due to its efficiency and lower environmental impact.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-justice-department-releases-8-000-documents-following-legal-pressure-1766486736519">Epstein Files: US Justice department releases 8,000+ new documents following legal pressure</a>&nbsp;The rocket is capable of deploying payloads of up to 90 kilograms into sun-synchronous orbit, a trajectory commonly used for Earth observation, environmental monitoring, and reconnaissance. On its debut mission, Hanbit-Nano was carrying five commercial small satellites from clients in India and Brazil, alongside three experimental payloads. The mix underlined the growing international appetite for affordable and adaptable launch services.<h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">BREAKING: South Korean Rocket Erupts in Massive Blast After Launch Failure at Alcântara Space Center in Brazil <a href="https://t.co/6Ba3NEf96H">pic.twitter.com/6Ba3NEf96H</a>&mdash; Insider Paper (@TheInsiderPaper) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheInsiderPaper/status/2003283870146601433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The mission had already faced several delays, pushed back from its original December 17 window due to technical challenges and changing weather conditions. Such interruptions are routine in orbital launches, particularly from equatorial sites like Alcantara, where weather patterns can change rapidly. Industry analysts point out that first launches are notoriously unforgiving, even for companies that later become industry leaders. Many successful launch providers have faced early failures before refining their systems.&nbsp;Despite the setback, Innospace’s long-term plans remain ambitious. The company is developing larger vehicles, Hanbit-Micro and Hanbit-Mini—to expand its launch capabilities and compete in a crowded global market. While Hanbit-Nano’s first flight ended unsuccessfully, it also marked South Korea’s arrival in the private launch arena. As demand for small satellite access to orbit continues to rise, the failed mission serves as a reminder that progress in spaceflight is often built on early losses.

WATCH | South Korea's Innospace’s Hanbit-Nano rocket crashes minutes after historic liftoff attempt

South Korea’s push into private orbital launch suffered a blow on Monday (December 22) night after Innospace’s Hanbit-Nano rocket failed shortly after liftoff, ending its maiden flight prematurely. The launch, carried out from Brazil’s Alcantara Space Centre, was poised to be a historic moment, the first attempt by a South Korean private firm to reach orbit. Instead, the 17-metre rocket lost stability roughly a minute into the flight and crashed back to Earth, according to independent tracking data. Hanbit-Nano lifted off at 8:13 pm EST, but soon encountered an unspecified anomaly. Innospace confirmed that the mission did not proceed as planned and abruptly ended its live broadcast, saying further details would be shared after an internal review. Developed for the booming small-satellite launch market, Hanbit-Nano is a two-stage vehicle. Its first stage uses liquid oxygen and paraffin, while the upper stage is designed to operate in two variants, one with the same propellants and another powered by liquid oxygen and liquid methane, a combination that is gaining traction due to its efficiency and lower environmental impact. Also Read: Epstein Files: US Justice department releases 8,000+ new documents following legal pressure The rocket is capable of deploying payloads of up to 90 kilograms into sun-synchronous orbit, a trajectory commonly used for Earth observation, environmental monitoring, and reconnaissance. On its debut mission, Hanbit-Nano was carrying five commercial small satellites from clients in India and Brazil, alongside three experimental payloads. The mix underlined the growing international appetite for affordable and adaptable launch services. Watch the video here

Innospace’s Hanbit-Nano rocket crashed minutes after launch, ending South Korea’s first private orbital attempt but marking a key step in its space journey

Large-scale Russian strikes killed at least three people and knocked out power to thousands across Ukraine in freezing winter conditions on Tuesday (Dec 23), officials said, as US-led efforts to end the nearly four-year war stalled. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the pre-Christmas attacks underscored that the Kremlin had no intention of ending the invasion launched in February 2022.Russia attacked with 635 drones and 38 missiles, Ukraine's air force said.The strikes came a day after a Russian general was killed in a car blast in Moscow and after both sides held separate talks in Miami with US officials on ending the war in Miami.There has been no sign of an imminent breakthrough in the diplomatic push.Zelensky said a four-year-old child was killed in the central Zhytomyr region, where a Russian drone struck a residential building.Workers were scrambling to repair energy infrastructure hit in the attack, he said, which forced emergency power cuts across several regions in frigid winter weather."An attack ahead of Christmas, when people simply want to be with their families, at home, and safe. An attack carried out essentially in the midst of negotiations aimed at ending this war," he said, adding:“Putin still cannot accept that he must stop killing.”<h2>Four-year-old killed</h2>Russia's army said it had launched a massive strike using long-range drones and hypersonic missiles at military and energy sites.The head of Ukraine's Zhytomyr region, Vitaliy Bunechko, said a girl born in 2021 succumbed to her wounds after her building was hit."Doctors fought to save her life, but in the end they were unable to do so," he said on Telegram.There were also deaths in the Kyiv and Khmelnytskyi regions.The southern Black Sea region of Odesa was also targeted again -- as Russia steps up its attacks on the important port city.Olena Dolhachova, a 40-year-old maths teacher there, told AFP she had to resort to candles to do her work."There are attacks every week. Just when power is restored, all our schedules are disrupted again, we are left without electricity, without stability, sitting in the dark for two or three days," she said."It is very difficult."Ukrainian authorities say the intensifying strikes are an attempt to completely destroy Ukraine's maritime logistics.Dolhachova said power outages often mean her students cannot study in online classes."Despite everything, we are working, we are teaching... We are not giving up," she added.<h2>'It's about health'</h2>Anastasiia Kulakivska, an Odesa beauty salon manager, said "seven days without electricity has become the norm in Odesa.""The house gets very cold very quickly," she said, describing trying to keep her medicine at the right temperature without a fridge and using a generator for her family's needs."It's about health," she said. "For example, when your child is sick, you need to plug in an inhaler, and it can't run on batteries."Ukraine's prime minister Yulia Svyrydenko said energy facilities in the west of the country were most affected by the strikes.Neighbouring Poland scrambled jets to protect its airspace during the strikes, Poland's military said in a post on X.On the battlefield in the east, Russia's army claimed to have captured settlements in the Kharkiv and Dnipropetrovsk regions, in a grinding advance that has accelerated in recent weeks.Moscow on Monday reported "slow progress" in talks over the US plan to end the war, as Kyiv and its European allies seek to adjust an initial proposal that adhered to many of Russia's hardline demands.

Workers were scrambling to repair energy infrastructure hit in the attack, he said, which forced emergency power cuts across several regions in frigid winter weather.

Large-scale Russian strikes killed at least three people and knocked out power to thousands across Ukraine in freezing winter conditions on Tuesday (Dec 23), officials said, as US-led efforts to end the nearly four-year war stalled. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the pre-Christmas attacks underscored that the Kremlin had no intention of ending the invasion launched in February 2022. Russia attacked with 635 drones and 38 missiles, Ukraine's air force said. The strikes came a day after a Russian general was killed in a car blast in Moscow and after both sides held separate talks in Miami with US officials on ending the war in Miami. There has been no sign of an imminent breakthrough in the diplomatic push. Zelensky said a four-year-old child was killed in the central Zhytomyr region, where a Russian drone struck a residential building. Workers were scrambling to repair energy infrastructure hit in the attack, he said, which forced emergency power cuts across several regions in frigid winter weather. "An attack ahead of Christmas, when people simply want to be with their families, at home, and safe. An attack carried out essentially in the midst of negotiations aimed at ending this war," he said, adding: “Putin still cannot accept that he must stop killing.” Four-year-old killed Russia's army said it had launched a massive strike using long-range drones and hypersonic missiles at military and energy sites. The head of Ukraine's Zhytomyr region, Vitaliy Bunechko, said a girl born in 2021 succumbed to her wounds after her building was hit. "Doctors fought to save her life, but in the end they were unable to do so," he said on Telegram. There were also deaths in the Kyiv and Khmelnytskyi regions. The southern Black Sea region of Odesa was also targeted again -- as Russia steps up its attacks on the important port city. Olena Dolhachova, a 40-year-old maths teacher there, told AFP she had to resort to candles to do her work. "There are attacks every week. Just when power is restored, all our schedules are disrupted again, we are left without electricity, without stability, sitting in the dark for two or three days," she said. "It is very difficult." Ukrainian authorities say the intensifying strikes are an attempt to completely destroy Ukraine's maritime logistics. Dolhachova said power outages often mean her students cannot study in online classes. "Despite everything, we are working, we are teaching... We are not giving up," she added. 'It's about health' Anastasiia Kulakivska, an Odesa beauty salon manager, said "seven days without electricity has become the norm in Odesa." "The house gets very cold very quickly," she said, describing trying to keep her medicine at the right temperature without a fridge and using a generator for her family's needs. "It's about health," she said. "For example, when your child is sick, you need to plug in an inhaler, and it can't run on batteries." Ukraine's prime minister Yulia Svyrydenko said energy facilities in the west of the country were most affected by the strikes. Neighbouring Poland scrambled jets to protect its airspace during the strikes, Poland's military said in a post on X. On the battlefield in the east, Russia's army claimed to have captured settlements in the Kharkiv and Dnipropetrovsk regions, in a grinding advance that has accelerated in recent weeks. Moscow on Monday reported "slow progress" in talks over the US plan to end the war, as Kyiv and its European allies seek to adjust an initial proposal that adhered to many of Russia's hardline demands.

Workers were scrambling to repair energy infrastructure hit in the attack, he said, which forced emergency power cuts across several regions in frigid winter weather.

‘Massive’ Russian strikes hit Ukraine energy grid ahead of Christmas

In 2025, multiple aviation disasters involving jets, helicopters, military aircraft and leisure flights killed hundreds worldwide. From deadly mid-air collisions to crashes after takeoff, the tragedies sparked investigations and renewed global safety concerns.

From Potomac River mid-air collision to Air India crash: Biggest aviation disasters of 2025

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has faced intense criticism, particularly from Democratic lawmakers, for its slow pace in releasing records related to the investigation into the case of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The release, which includes hundreds of videos and audio recordings, comes after months of delay and redaction, frustrating both victims and advocates. Among the newly disclosed material is surveillance footage from August 2019, the month Epstein was found dead in his jail cell while awaiting trial for sex trafficking charges.&nbsp;While the DOJ posted around 11,000 links to new documents online, some of them led to dead links, raising further questions about transparency. Victims' groups, already frustrated with the process, have pointed out that the files released were only a fraction of the expected documents and were heavily redacted without clear explanations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/crimes-of-do-kwon-freefall-of-south-korean-crypto-genius-fugitive-life-forged-passport-and-15-years-in-jail-terrausd-luna-ust-1766483420813">Crimes of Do Kwon: Freefall of South Korean crypto genius - fugitive life, forged passports and 15 years in jail</a>&nbsp;In response, bipartisan sponsors of the Epstein Files Transparency Act (EFTA), including Democrats like Ro Khanna and Republicans such as Thomas Massie, have threatened legal action against Attorney General Pam Bondi, accusing her of failing to comply with the law, which required the release of all relevant files by last Friday (December 19).&nbsp;Adding to the controversy, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer introduced a resolution on Monday (December 22), calling for legal action against the administration for its failure to fully comply with the mandate. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche explained the delays, saying that the identities of over 1,000 victims had to be redacted, and denied claims that the DOJ was shielding US President Donald Trump, who had social ties with Epstein. Though Trump had initially sought to block the release of these files, he eventually signed the law under pressure from Congress, ensuring the public disclosure of the records despite having no personal involvement in the case.

Epstein Files: Justice department releases 8,000+ documents following legal pressure

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has faced intense criticism, particularly from Democratic lawmakers, for its slow pace in releasing records related to the investigation into the case of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The release, which includes hundreds of videos and audio recordings, comes after months of delay and redaction, frustrating both victims and advocates. Among the newly disclosed material is surveillance footage from August 2019, the month Epstein was found dead in his jail cell while awaiting trial for sex trafficking charges. While the DOJ posted around 11,000 links to new documents online, some of them led to dead links, raising further questions about transparency. Victims' groups, already frustrated with the process, have pointed out that the files released were only a fraction of the expected documents and were heavily redacted without clear explanations. Also Read: Crimes of Do Kwon: Freefall of South Korean crypto genius - fugitive life, forged passports and 15 years in jail In response, bipartisan sponsors of the Epstein Files Transparency Act (EFTA), including Democrats like Ro Khanna and Republicans such as Thomas Massie, have threatened legal action against Attorney General Pam Bondi, accusing her of failing to comply with the law, which required the release of all relevant files by last Friday (December 19). Adding to the controversy, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer introduced a resolution on Monday (December 22), calling for legal action against the administration for its failure to fully comply with the mandate. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche explained the delays, saying that the identities of over 1,000 victims had to be redacted, and denied claims that the DOJ was shielding US President Donald Trump, who had social ties with Epstein. Though Trump had initially sought to block the release of these files, he eventually signed the law under pressure from Congress, ensuring the public disclosure of the records despite having no personal involvement in the case.

The DOJ faces heavy criticism for withholding and heavily redacting Epstein investigation records. Congress pushes for full, transparent release under new law

Epstein Files: US Justice department releases 8,000+ new documents following legal pressure

Do Kwon was sentenced earlier this month to 15 years in prison by a New York court for crimes associated with the fall of his cryptocurrencies TerraUSD and Luna. Kwon joins the hall of shame of crypto kings, queens and geniuses who were celebrated at the heyday of the digital currencies a decade ago, but manipulated their systems to defraud customers. Kwon was charged with money laundering and fraud, having been apprehended after a years-long manhunt. This is his story.<h2>Do Kwon: the baby-faced crypto genius</h2>Do Kwon, born in South Korea on 6 September 1991 as Kwon Do-hyung, went from software engineer to cryptocurrency entrepreneur after graduating from Stanford University with a degree in computer science. He cut his teeth at Microsoft and Apple before co-founding Singapore-based Terraform Labs with Daniel Shin in 2018, and serving as CEO.Terraform Labs developed the Terra blockchain, the Luna cryptocurrency, and the algorithmic stablecoin TerraUSD (UST), which was marketed as maintaining a $1 peg through an automated mechanism involving Luna. But before we move further, you need to know about the concept of stablecoins.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/markets-in-numbers-2025-precious-metals-rise-crypto-worst-performing-asset-1766467180818/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/markets-in-numbers-2025-precious-metals-rise-crypto-worst-performing-asset-1766467180818/embed</a><h2>What are dollar-pegged stablecoins?</h2>Stablecoins are cryptocurrencies designed to maintain a stable value, typically pegged as equal to, or 1:1 with, the US dollar or other fiat currencies.The aim is to combine the benefits of crypto, such as fast and borderless transfers, with the stability of traditional money. The equal pegging to the dollar enabled stablecoins to be used in trading, remittances, and decentralised finance (DeFi) lending. Stablecoins were advertised as a “safe haven” during cryptocurrency volatility, something that Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin and others are notorious for.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/why-are-crypto-markets-falling-1760706709071">Why are crypto markets falling? Explained</a>&nbsp;There are three main types of dollar-pegged stablecoins.The most common are fiat-collateralised cryptocurrencies. These dominate market capitalisation and are backed by 1:1 reserves of US dollars, usually in cash or treasuries held off-chain by a centralised issuer. Examples of such coins include Tether and USD Coin.The second type are crypto-collateralised. These are over-collateralised, sometimes up to 200 per cent, by other cryptocurrencies locked in smart contracts. If the collateral value drops, positions can be liquidated to maintain the peg. Examples include DAI from MakerDAO, which is backed by Ethereum and other cryptocurrencies.The third type are algorithmic stablecoins, which have minimal or no collateral. These use algorithms or incentives to adjust supply automatically through arbitrage operations, usually involving a more volatile “sister” tokens which absorbs price fluctuations. Fully decentralised, algorithmic stablecoins are the riskiest in volatile market conditions.Do Kwon’s TerraUSD, or UST, was one such algorithmic stablecoin. It worked on what is known as a “burn-and-mint mechanism” using the sister coin Luna. In reality, UST was not actually backed by dollar reserves. In the ‘burn and mint operation’, when UST was down in value to US dollars, users would ‘burn’ UST and ‘mint’ more Luna coins, and when Luna was down, they would mint UST and burn Luna, and so on.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-coordinate-real-time-to-seize-cryptocurrency-assets-worth-150-million-1757086955195">India, US coordinate real time to seize cryptocurrency assets worth $150 Million</a><h2>The massive fraud of Kwon</h2>Kwon misled investors in his crypto assets about the stability and mechanics of TerraUSD, falsely claiming that the dollar peg was purely maintained by algorithms.But the reality was different.The dollar was “depegged” in May 2021, meaning UST temporarily lost its one-to-one value against the US dollar. But to hide this, Kwon secretly made arrangements with a trading firm to buy millions of dollars’ worth of UST to artificially restore the dollar peg.This led to the inflation of Kwon’s cryptocurrency ecosystem, valued at $50 billion at its peak.<h2>The spectacular collapse of TerraUSD and Luna and crypto winter</h2>Crypto investments saw massive growth during the Covid pandemic. As the lockdowns eased, investments came down. In May 2022, Kwon’s crypto assets UST and Luna collapsed spectacularly, as a chain reaction of panic withdrawals contributed to the situation similar to run on the banks..Nearly $40–50 billion in investor value was wiped out in days. Many retail investors lost their entire life savings.The collapse highlighted algorithmic stablecoins’ vulnerability, a case of fake confidence without sufficient underlying mechanisms.&nbsp;The fall of UST contributed to a broader crypto market crash known as “crypto winter”. It may have also partially caused the downfall of other firms like FTX, run by Sam Bankman-Fried.&nbsp;Firms such as Three Arrows Capital, Voyager were also affected.<h2>After the fall: Kwon’s life as a fugitive</h2>After the 2022 collapse, Kwon disappeared. Reports claimed he fled first to Singapore, then to the Balkans, using false passports. But in March 2023, his escape from the law ended. Kwon was arrested at Podgorica Airport in Montenegro while attempting to board a flight to Dubai using forged Costa Rican documents. He was given a short jail term in Montenegro for passport forgery.Already, both the US and South Korea were on Kwon’s trail and wanted him extradited.A legal battle ensued.On 31 December 2024, Montenegro extradited Kwon to the US to stand trial at a federal court in Manhattan, New York. Kwon, the once-crypto king, pleaded guilty in August 2025 to conspiracy to defraud, wire fraud, and other related charges. Nearly a year after his extradition, he was sentenced to 15 years in prison on December 11, with credit for time served in custody, including about 17 months in Montenegro.<h2>Do Kwon: Epic fraud</h2>The US judge described the TerraUSD fraud as “epic” and on a “generational scale”.Kwon expressed remorse in court.He and Terraform Labs had settled a separate civil case with the US securities watchdog, the SEC, for $4.55 billion, including an $80 million personal fine.But his legal woes are not over.The baby-faced entrepreneur may face additional charges in South Korea after serving his US sentence.

Do Kwon, recently sentenced to 15 years in prison, had risen from Stanford graduate to crypto star before his tokens, TerraUSD and sister coin Luna collapsed, wiping out billions of dollars in value. Here is his story

Do Kwon was sentenced earlier this month to 15 years in prison by a New York court for crimes associated with the fall of his cryptocurrencies TerraUSD and Luna. Kwon joins the hall of shame of crypto kings, queens and geniuses who were celebrated at the heyday of the digital currencies a decade ago, but manipulated their systems to defraud customers. Kwon was charged with money laundering and fraud, having been apprehended after a years-long manhunt. This is his story. Do Kwon: the baby-faced crypto genius Do Kwon, born in South Korea on 6 September 1991 as Kwon Do-hyung, went from software engineer to cryptocurrency entrepreneur after graduating from Stanford University with a degree in computer science. He cut his teeth at Microsoft and Apple before co-founding Singapore-based Terraform Labs with Daniel Shin in 2018, and serving as CEO. Terraform Labs developed the Terra blockchain, the Luna cryptocurrency, and the algorithmic stablecoin TerraUSD (UST), which was marketed as maintaining a $1 peg through an automated mechanism involving Luna. But before we move further, you need to know about the concept of stablecoins. https://www.wionews.com/videos/markets-in-numbers-2025-precious-metals-rise-crypto-worst-performing-asset-1766467180818/embed What are dollar-pegged stablecoins? Stablecoins are cryptocurrencies designed to maintain a stable value, typically pegged as equal to, or 1:1 with, the US dollar or other fiat currencies. The aim is to combine the benefits of crypto, such as fast and borderless transfers, with the stability of traditional money. The equal pegging to the dollar enabled stablecoins to be used in trading, remittances, and decentralised finance (DeFi) lending. Stablecoins were advertised as a “safe haven” during cryptocurrency volatility, something that Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin and others are notorious for. Also read: Why are crypto markets falling? Explained There are three main types of dollar-pegged stablecoins. The most common are fiat-collateralised cryptocurrencies. These dominate market capitalisation and are backed by 1:1 reserves of US dollars, usually in cash or treasuries held off-chain by a centralised issuer. Examples of such coins include Tether and USD Coin. The second type are crypto-collateralised. These are over-collateralised, sometimes up to 200 per cent, by other cryptocurrencies locked in smart contracts. If the collateral value drops, positions can be liquidated to maintain the peg. Examples include DAI from MakerDAO, which is backed by Ethereum and other cryptocurrencies. The third type are algorithmic stablecoins, which have minimal or no collateral. These use algorithms or incentives to adjust supply automatically through arbitrage operations, usually involving a more volatile “sister” tokens which absorbs price fluctuations. Fully decentralised, algorithmic stablecoins are the riskiest in volatile market conditions. Do Kwon’s TerraUSD, or UST, was one such algorithmic stablecoin. It worked on what is known as a “burn-and-mint mechanism” using the sister coin Luna. In reality, UST was not actually backed by dollar reserves. In the ‘burn and mint operation’, when UST was down in value to US dollars, users would ‘burn’ UST and ‘mint’ more Luna coins, and when Luna was down, they would mint UST and burn Luna, and so on. Also read: India, US coordinate real time to seize cryptocurrency assets worth $150 Million The massive fraud of Kwon Kwon misled investors in his crypto assets about the stability and mechanics of TerraUSD, falsely claiming that the dollar peg was purely maintained by algorithms. But the reality was different. The dollar was “depegged” in May 2021, meaning UST temporarily lost its one-to-one value against the US dollar. But to hide this, Kwon secretly made arrangements with a trading firm to buy millions of dollars’ worth of UST to artificially restore the dollar peg. This led to the inflation of Kwon’s cryptocurrency ecosystem, valued at $50 billion at its peak. The spectacular collapse of TerraUSD and Luna and crypto winter Crypto investments saw massive growth during the Covid pandemic. As the lockdowns eased, investments came down. In May 2022, Kwon’s crypto assets UST and Luna collapsed spectacularly, as a chain reaction of panic withdrawals contributed to the situation similar to run on the banks.. Nearly $40–50 billion in investor value was wiped out in days. Many retail investors lost their entire life savings. The collapse highlighted algorithmic stablecoins’ vulnerability, a case of fake confidence without sufficient underlying mechanisms. The fall of UST contributed to a broader crypto market crash known as “crypto winter”. It may have also partially caused the downfall of other firms like FTX, run by Sam Bankman-Fried. Firms such as Three Arrows Capital, Voyager were also affected. After the fall: Kwon’s life as a fugitive After the 2022 collapse, Kwon disappeared. Reports claimed he fled first to Singapore, then to the Balkans, using false passports. But in March 2023, his escape from the law ended. Kwon was arrested at Podgorica Airport in Montenegro while attempting to board a flight to Dubai using forged Costa Rican documents. He was given a short jail term in Montenegro for passport forgery. Already, both the US and South Korea were on Kwon’s trail and wanted him extradited. A legal battle ensued. On 31 December 2024, Montenegro extradited Kwon to the US to stand trial at a federal court in Manhattan, New York. Kwon, the once-crypto king, pleaded guilty in August 2025 to conspiracy to defraud, wire fraud, and other related charges. Nearly a year after his extradition, he was sentenced to 15 years in prison on December 11, with credit for time served in custody, including about 17 months in Montenegro. Do Kwon: Epic fraud The US judge described the TerraUSD fraud as “epic” and on a “generational scale”. Kwon expressed remorse in court. He and Terraform Labs had settled a separate civil case with the US securities watchdog, the SEC, for $4.55 billion, including an $80 million personal fine. But his legal woes are not over. The baby-faced entrepreneur may face additional charges in South Korea after serving his US sentence.

Do Kwon, recently sentenced to 15 years in prison, had risen from Stanford graduate to crypto star before his tokens, TerraUSD and sister coin Luna collapsed, wiping out billions of dollars in value. Here is his story&nbsp;

Crimes of Do Kwon: Freefall of South Korean crypto genius - fugitive life, forged passports and 15 years in jail

US envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff and US President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner have pitched a $112 billion worth of “Project Sunrise” for the development of the war-torn Gaza. The pitch, termed as "sensitive but unclassified,” had 32 pages of PowerPoint slides, with skyscrapers, luxury resorts, high-speed rail, AI-optimised smart grids- a real estate bonanza. The plan doesn't clarify where the 2 million Gazans will live during reconstruction, which nation or companies will fund the project, or what the return on investment will be.&nbsp;<h2>The Project Sunrise</h2>It was developed by Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff with help from Israeli firms and security officials within 45 days. The proposal was shown to officials from Egypt, Turkey and Qatar in Miami on Friday. The project, reportedly, will cost around $112.1 billion and will take 10 years. It plans to develop the Gaza Strip in three phases- removal of destroyed buildings, unexploded ordnance and Hamas’s tunnels- construction of permanent housing, medical facilities, schools and religious spaces- then the luxury beachfront properties, tech corridors and modern transportation hubs will be developed. Geographically, it will start in the South from Rafah, Khan Yunis, then the central camps and finally Gaza City. &nbsp;The United States is supposed to anchor 20 per cent of the fund, and then there will be funding from foreign government grants and sovereign debts.&nbsp;<h2>Why is the Project a trap?</h2>The project classically fits within the framework of a neo-colonial, extractive capitalism. Here, extraction replaces occupation. The projected plan is based on the demilitarisation and decommission of Hamas' weapons and its tunnel network.&nbsp;“You are not going to convince anyone to invest money in Gaza if they believe another war is going to happen in two, three years,” said US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.&nbsp;But the proposal skips some of the fundamental steps. Normally, any conflict resolution will follow these steps chronologically: cease fire, political settlements, re-establishment of governance and then reconstruction. But here it's a ceasefire, then demilitarisation and then reconstruction. Political security and sovereignty to be figured out later. For Hamas, which was formed to end the colonial occupation of Israel and establish a Palestinian state, this will be hard to swallow. Further, there is no plan for the 2 million people to live during the reconstruction of Gaza. The humanitarian aid is conditional on the political surrender, which is a form of coercion. Moreover, the proposal frames this as “Dubai in the Mediterranean”, tries to erase years of trauma and the history and tries to portray it as an underutilised 'real estate'. Palestinians are promised jobs later, not ownership. The rebuilding process starts with holding 2 million people hostage. The core contradiction is how does free economy works on occupied and unfree people and land.&nbsp;

Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff pitch a $112bn Gaza rebuild dubbed as Project Sunrise to officials from Egypt, Turkey and Qatar. There are questions around its validity and viability.

US envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff and US President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner have pitched a $112 billion worth of “Project Sunrise” for the development of the war-torn Gaza. The pitch, termed as "sensitive but unclassified,” had 32 pages of PowerPoint slides, with skyscrapers, luxury resorts, high-speed rail, AI-optimised smart grids- a real estate bonanza. The plan doesn't clarify where the 2 million Gazans will live during reconstruction, which nation or companies will fund the project, or what the return on investment will be. The Project Sunrise It was developed by Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff with help from Israeli firms and security officials within 45 days. The proposal was shown to officials from Egypt, Turkey and Qatar in Miami on Friday. The project, reportedly, will cost around $112.1 billion and will take 10 years. It plans to develop the Gaza Strip in three phases- removal of destroyed buildings, unexploded ordnance and Hamas’s tunnels- construction of permanent housing, medical facilities, schools and religious spaces- then the luxury beachfront properties, tech corridors and modern transportation hubs will be developed. Geographically, it will start in the South from Rafah, Khan Yunis, then the central camps and finally Gaza City. The United States is supposed to anchor 20 per cent of the fund, and then there will be funding from foreign government grants and sovereign debts. Why is the Project a trap? The project classically fits within the framework of a neo-colonial, extractive capitalism. Here, extraction replaces occupation. The projected plan is based on the demilitarisation and decommission of Hamas' weapons and its tunnel network. “You are not going to convince anyone to invest money in Gaza if they believe another war is going to happen in two, three years,” said US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. But the proposal skips some of the fundamental steps. Normally, any conflict resolution will follow these steps chronologically: cease fire, political settlements, re-establishment of governance and then reconstruction. But here it's a ceasefire, then demilitarisation and then reconstruction. Political security and sovereignty to be figured out later. For Hamas, which was formed to end the colonial occupation of Israel and establish a Palestinian state, this will be hard to swallow. Further, there is no plan for the 2 million people to live during the reconstruction of Gaza. The humanitarian aid is conditional on the political surrender, which is a form of coercion. Moreover, the proposal frames this as “Dubai in the Mediterranean”, tries to erase years of trauma and the history and tries to portray it as an underutilised 'real estate'. Palestinians are promised jobs later, not ownership. The rebuilding process starts with holding 2 million people hostage. The core contradiction is how does free economy works on occupied and unfree people and land.

Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff pitch a $112bn Gaza rebuild dubbed as Project Sunrise to officials from Egypt, Turkey and Qatar. But questions remain without a political settlement: how is reconstruction valid?&nbsp;

Project Sunrise: US $112bn Gaza plan turning war into a real estate bonanza

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Monday (Dec 22) approved the first daily pill version of Novo Nordisk’s popular weight loss drug Wegovy, revolutionising the way to treat obesity. The move has also given the drugmaker an edge over its rival Eli Lilly, whose oral drug orforglipron, is still under review. The GLP-1 drug uses the same active ingredient, semaglutide, that powers Wegovy and its sister drug Ozempic, which is used for diabetes.Both Wegovy and Ozempic are widely used as injections. The drug mimics a natural hormone that controls appetite and feelings of fullness. While the FDA had already approved a pill to be used for treating diabetes, the approval of the weight loss drug will allow doctors to prescribe the pill to patients with obesity or those who are overweight with at least one weight-related comorbidity, such as a heart condition, the company said.“With today’s approval of the Wegovy pill, patients will have a convenient, once-daily pill that can help them lose as much weight as the original Wegovy injection,” Mike Doustdar, president and CEO of Novo Nordisk, said in a statement.According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 40 per cent of American adults have a prevalence of obesity. The new development was lauded by the US Obesity Care Advocacy Network (OCAN), a nonprofit advocacy group for adults with obesity.“This development represents an important opportunity for people living with obesity, offering an alternative for those hesitant to begin injectable therapy and providing a potentially lower-cost option,” the group said in a statement to AFP.According to Novo Nordisk, the Wegovy pills are expected to be available within weeks. The availability of oral pills could also expand the market for weight loss treatments and reduce costs, CBS reported, citing experts.During a clinical trial, the oral Wegovy resulted in a weight loss of 13.6 per cent of the total body weight of participants in about 15 months, which is nearly the same as injectable Wegovy, with an average weight loss of about 15 per cent.

According to Novo Nordisk, the Wegovy pills are expected to be available within weeks. The availability of oral pills could also expand the market for weight loss treatments and reduce costs

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Monday (Dec 22) approved the first daily pill version of Novo Nordisk’s popular weight loss drug Wegovy, revolutionising the way to treat obesity. The move has also given the drugmaker an edge over its rival Eli Lilly, whose oral drug orforglipron, is still under review. The GLP-1 drug uses the same active ingredient, semaglutide, that powers Wegovy and its sister drug Ozempic, which is used for diabetes. Both Wegovy and Ozempic are widely used as injections. The drug mimics a natural hormone that controls appetite and feelings of fullness. While the FDA had already approved a pill to be used for treating diabetes, the approval of the weight loss drug will allow doctors to prescribe the pill to patients with obesity or those who are overweight with at least one weight-related comorbidity, such as a heart condition, the company said. “With today’s approval of the Wegovy pill, patients will have a convenient, once-daily pill that can help them lose as much weight as the original Wegovy injection,” Mike Doustdar, president and CEO of Novo Nordisk, said in a statement. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 40 per cent of American adults have a prevalence of obesity. The new development was lauded by the US Obesity Care Advocacy Network (OCAN), a nonprofit advocacy group for adults with obesity. “This development represents an important opportunity for people living with obesity, offering an alternative for those hesitant to begin injectable therapy and providing a potentially lower-cost option,” the group said in a statement to AFP. According to Novo Nordisk, the Wegovy pills are expected to be available within weeks. The availability of oral pills could also expand the market for weight loss treatments and reduce costs, CBS reported, citing experts. During a clinical trial, the oral Wegovy resulted in a weight loss of 13.6 per cent of the total body weight of participants in about 15 months, which is nearly the same as injectable Wegovy, with an average weight loss of about 15 per cent.

According to Novo Nordisk, the Wegovy pills are expected to be available within weeks. The availability of oral pills could also expand the market for weight loss treatments and reduce costs.

No injections needed! FDA approves THIS ‘once-daily’ oral weight loss pill – All you need to know

Amid fresh wave of unrest in Bangladesh, shocking findings into the death of Hindu man Dipu Chandra Das, has emerged. Das was killed in the violence that erupted after radical activist Sharif Osman Hadi. It was previously reported that he was lynched by angry mob because of “blasphemy.” However, Police and the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) in Bangladesh have said that they have not found any evidence to substantiate claims that Dipu insulted religion. Mymensingh Additional Superintendent of Police (Administration) Abdullah Al Mamun said that the allegations of blasphemy are currently based on word of mouth. Investigators also suggested that the killing might have been due to an internal conflict at the factory where Dipu worked. 12 people have beena arrested in the case so far.&nbsp;According to Dhaka Tribune report, Dipu's family said that tensions escalated inside the factory earlier that day. Dipu had appeared for a recruitment examination for promotion from floor manager to supervisor and had dispute with several colleagues over his position. His brother Apu Robi Das also claimed that he was sacked from his job, on false allegations of insulting religion. &nbsp;"They beat my brother and threw him out of the factory. Even after he was caught and apologised, they did not spare him," Dipu Das's brother was quoted as saying. Apu said Dipu's friend Himel later called him, informing that he had been taken to the police station for allegedly making derogatory remarks about the Prophet Muhammad. "A short while later, he called again and said my brother was dead," Apu said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Mymensingh RAB Company Commander Md Shamsuzzaman also backed RAB's statement that there was no proof that Dipu disrespected religion. It said none of those present at the scene could confirm hearing Dipu make any derogatory comments about religion. "Even if the deceased had posted something online, that would have been traceable. We found nothing," he said. Local Ward No 5 member Tofazzel Hossain said the killing did not appear to be a spontaneous act driven by religious outrage. "I have heard Dipu had long-standing disputes over production targets, overtime, working conditions and workers' benefits… a conspiracy gradually formed to remove him from the factory," he was quoted as saying.&nbsp;India on Sunday (Dec 21) expressed concern at the “horrendous killing." Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that India is keeping a close watch on the evolving situation in Bangladesh. “Our officials remain in touch with Bangladesh authorities and have conveyed to them our strong concerns at the attacks on minorities. We have also urged that the perpetrators of the barbaric killing of Das be brought to justice.”

Bangladesh police and RAB found no evidence that Hindu worker Dipu Chandra Das committed blasphemy, contradicting earlier claims. Investigators suspect a workplace dispute led to his lynching amid unrest after Sharif Osman Hadi’s death. India expressed concern and urged justice.

Amid fresh wave of unrest in Bangladesh, shocking findings into the death of Hindu man Dipu Chandra Das, has emerged. Das was killed in the violence that erupted after radical activist Sharif Osman Hadi. It was previously reported that he was lynched by angry mob because of “blasphemy.” However, Police and the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) in Bangladesh have said that they have not found any evidence to substantiate claims that Dipu insulted religion. Mymensingh Additional Superintendent of Police (Administration) Abdullah Al Mamun said that the allegations of blasphemy are currently based on word of mouth. Investigators also suggested that the killing might have been due to an internal conflict at the factory where Dipu worked. 12 people have beena arrested in the case so far. According to Dhaka Tribune report, Dipu's family said that tensions escalated inside the factory earlier that day. Dipu had appeared for a recruitment examination for promotion from floor manager to supervisor and had dispute with several colleagues over his position. His brother Apu Robi Das also claimed that he was sacked from his job, on false allegations of insulting religion. "They beat my brother and threw him out of the factory. Even after he was caught and apologised, they did not spare him," Dipu Das's brother was quoted as saying. Apu said Dipu's friend Himel later called him, informing that he had been taken to the police station for allegedly making derogatory remarks about the Prophet Muhammad. "A short while later, he called again and said my brother was dead," Apu said. Meanwhile, Mymensingh RAB Company Commander Md Shamsuzzaman also backed RAB's statement that there was no proof that Dipu disrespected religion. It said none of those present at the scene could confirm hearing Dipu make any derogatory comments about religion. "Even if the deceased had posted something online, that would have been traceable. We found nothing," he said. Local Ward No 5 member Tofazzel Hossain said the killing did not appear to be a spontaneous act driven by religious outrage. "I have heard Dipu had long-standing disputes over production targets, overtime, working conditions and workers' benefits… a conspiracy gradually formed to remove him from the factory," he was quoted as saying. India on Sunday (Dec 21) expressed concern at the “horrendous killing." Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that India is keeping a close watch on the evolving situation in Bangladesh. “Our officials remain in touch with Bangladesh authorities and have conveyed to them our strong concerns at the attacks on minorities. We have also urged that the perpetrators of the barbaric killing of Das be brought to justice.”

Bangladesh police and RAB found no evidence that Hindu worker Dipu Chandra Das committed blasphemy, contradicting earlier claims. Investigators suspect a workplace dispute led to his lynching amid unrest after Sharif Osman Hadi’s death. India expressed concern and urged justice.

Bangladeshi Hindu man was not lynched due to 'blasphemy', probe finds 'factory dispute...'

At least five police personnel lost their lives after militants attacked a police van from Gurguri Police Station in Karak district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Tuesday. During the attack, the cops were deployed on security duty for the gas-producing company MOL. A visual of the incident also surfaced on social media, showing the charred remains of the vehicle, which came under attack.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨🚨 In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Karak’s Dami Banda, unknown gunmen fired on a police mobile, killing five officers: Shahid Iqbal, Safdar, Arif, Samiullah, and Muhammad Abrar 🫢🫢🤔 <a href="https://t.co/h5VdTgToUx">pic.twitter.com/h5VdTgToUx</a>&mdash; Naren Mukherjee (@NMukherjee6) <a href="https://twitter.com/NMukherjee6/status/2003345294013137310?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

According to a report in the Dawn, the district police spokesman, Shaukat Khan, confirmed the incident and the casualties, and stated that all of the martyred cops were constables. Khan added that the deceased policemen were identified as constables Shahid Iqbal, Samiullah, Arif, Safdar and Muhammad Abrar, who was also the mobile’s driver.&nbsp;Shaukat Khan stated that, along with a large police contingent, the district police officer was also present at the scene. Meanwhile, a search operation following the attack was underway, and the exact cause of the incident is not yet clear.

Police spokesman confirmed the incident and the casualties, and stated that all of the martyred cops were constables. He added that the deceased policemen were identified as constables Shahid Iqbal, Samiullah, Arif, Safdar and Muhammad Abrar, who was also the mobile’s driver.

At least five police personnel lost their lives after militants attacked a police van from Gurguri Police Station in Karak district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Tuesday. During the attack, the cops were deployed on security duty for the gas-producing company MOL. A visual of the incident also surfaced on social media, showing the charred remains of the vehicle, which came under attack.

Police spokesman confirmed the incident and the casualties, and stated that all of the martyred cops were constables. He added that the deceased policemen were identified as constables Shahid Iqbal, Samiullah, Arif, Safdar and Muhammad Abrar, who was also the mobile’s driver.

VIDEO: Five policemen killed in Pakistan after militant attack on patrolling vehicle

Days after radical activist Sharif Osman Hadi's death, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has claimed that his killer had been granted bail twice by senior Jamaat leader and prominent lawyer Shishir Manir, including once just months before Hadi was shot. Hadi, who was associated with the Inqilab Manch and linked to the July 2024 uprising, was a vocal critic of India and former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. His death has ignited tensions between India and Bangladesh. It has also fanned anti-Hindu and anti-India protest in Bangladesh.<h2>Osman Hadi's killer has links to Jamaat-e-Islami?</h2>Speaking during a televised panel discussion on Ekushey Television, BNP executive committee member Nilofer Chowdhury Moni said, “The man who fired at Hadi — we need to look at his background. Who bailed him out twice? Shishir Manir did. I am saying this responsibly,” she said. She also questioned how the accused repeatedly secured bail.<h2>Chaos in Bangladesh</h2>Radical activist Sharif Osman Hadi was shot in Dhaka by unidentified men. He was airlifted to Singapore for treatment, however he succumbed to injuries. His death was announced by Bangladesh interim leader Muhammad Yunus on Dec 18. Soon after, violence erupted in several cities of Bangladesh. Hadi, the founder of Inqilab Mancha, a radical student group of Dhaka University, was known for his anti-India views. Sporadic violence expanded into nationwide unrest with protesters taking to streets and vandalising cultural centres. On Dec 19, a Hindu man Dipu Chandra Das was lynched by an angry pro-Hadi mob in Mymensingh. By Dec 20, protests escalated into anti-India demonstration with residence of Indian Assistant High Commissioner in Chattogram being pelted with stones. The killing of Dipu Chandra paved way for counter protest against the Hadi's radical outfit. On Dec 22, another leader of National Citizen Party (NCP) was shot by miscreants in Khulna. He was identified Motaleb Shikder, Khulna divisional chief of NCP and central organiser of NCP Sramik Shakti. However, he is out of danger.&nbsp;&nbsp;After Hadi was shot, Dhaka summoned the Indian High Commissioner to demand cooperation in the assassination investigation and to protest former PM Sheikh Hasina's activities. After Hadi's death, protests were held outside Indian missions in Bangladesh. New Delhi summoned Bangladesh's envoy to register a strong demarche over security threats to Indian missions. It also expressed concern over the lynching of Dip[u Chandra Das. Counter protest was held in New Delhi outside Bangladeshi mission. Bangladesh summoned Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma. Soon after, India suspended visa services indefinitely at its application centers in Chittagong, Rajshahi, and Khulna citing security concerns. &nbsp;Dhaka suspended visa services at its High Commission in New Delhi and its missions in Tripura and Siliguri, citing "unavoidable circumstances" related to security. Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser M Touhid Hossain warned that Dhaka would consider "scaling back its presence" in India if the diplomatic situation continues to deteriorate.&nbsp;

After activist Sharif Osman Hadi’s killing, Bangladesh’s BNP alleged his accused shooter had links to Jamaat-e-Islami and received bail twice from senior Jamaat lawyer Shishir Manir. The incident triggered nationwide unrest, anti-India protests, and a diplomatic standoff

Days after radical activist Sharif Osman Hadi's death, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has claimed that his killer had been granted bail twice by senior Jamaat leader and prominent lawyer Shishir Manir, including once just months before Hadi was shot. Hadi, who was associated with the Inqilab Manch and linked to the July 2024 uprising, was a vocal critic of India and former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. His death has ignited tensions between India and Bangladesh. It has also fanned anti-Hindu and anti-India protest in Bangladesh. Osman Hadi's killer has links to Jamaat-e-Islami? Speaking during a televised panel discussion on Ekushey Television, BNP executive committee member Nilofer Chowdhury Moni said, “The man who fired at Hadi — we need to look at his background. Who bailed him out twice? Shishir Manir did. I am saying this responsibly,” she said. She also questioned how the accused repeatedly secured bail. Chaos in Bangladesh Radical activist Sharif Osman Hadi was shot in Dhaka by unidentified men. He was airlifted to Singapore for treatment, however he succumbed to injuries. His death was announced by Bangladesh interim leader Muhammad Yunus on Dec 18. Soon after, violence erupted in several cities of Bangladesh. Hadi, the founder of Inqilab Mancha, a radical student group of Dhaka University, was known for his anti-India views. Sporadic violence expanded into nationwide unrest with protesters taking to streets and vandalising cultural centres. On Dec 19, a Hindu man Dipu Chandra Das was lynched by an angry pro-Hadi mob in Mymensingh. By Dec 20, protests escalated into anti-India demonstration with residence of Indian Assistant High Commissioner in Chattogram being pelted with stones. The killing of Dipu Chandra paved way for counter protest against the Hadi's radical outfit. On Dec 22, another leader of National Citizen Party (NCP) was shot by miscreants in Khulna. He was identified Motaleb Shikder, Khulna divisional chief of NCP and central organiser of NCP Sramik Shakti. However, he is out of danger. After Hadi was shot, Dhaka summoned the Indian High Commissioner to demand cooperation in the assassination investigation and to protest former PM Sheikh Hasina's activities. After Hadi's death, protests were held outside Indian missions in Bangladesh. New Delhi summoned Bangladesh's envoy to register a strong demarche over security threats to Indian missions. It also expressed concern over the lynching of Dip[u Chandra Das. Counter protest was held in New Delhi outside Bangladeshi mission. Bangladesh summoned Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma. Soon after, India suspended visa services indefinitely at its application centers in Chittagong, Rajshahi, and Khulna citing security concerns. Dhaka suspended visa services at its High Commission in New Delhi and its missions in Tripura and Siliguri, citing "unavoidable circumstances" related to security. Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser M Touhid Hossain warned that Dhaka would consider "scaling back its presence" in India if the diplomatic situation continues to deteriorate.

After activist Sharif Osman Hadi’s killing, Bangladesh’s BNP alleged his accused shooter had links to Jamaat-e-Islami and received bail twice from senior Jamaat lawyer Shishir Manir. The incident triggered nationwide unrest, anti-India protests, and a diplomatic standoff&nbsp;

Osman Hadi shooter got bail twice with help of Jamaat leader? New claims emerge amid chaos in Bangladesh

Japan is reportedly preparing for a major overhaul of its foreign labour policies. The changes would balance a desperate need for workers with growing public concern over immigration, suggest reports. Under the overhaul, the government has announced plans to cap the number of trainees under its upcoming "Employment for Skill Development" program at approximately 426,000 for the first two years, starting in fiscal 2027.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-most-lethal-trump-class-warships-are-here-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-largest-battleship-its-weapon-nuclear-capabilities-explained-in-pics-1766473350248">'Most lethal' Trump-class warships are here! All you need to know about the largest battleship | Explained</a><h2>Why now?</h2>The move comes as Japan reviews its broader foreign-worker policies, including stricter measures against visa overstays, following instructions from Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Public concern about the growing number of foreign nationals in the country has also triggered the review, reports ANI. It comes as Japan grapples with a chronic labour shortage caused by its ageing population. To address this, the government plans to scrap the long-criticised Technical Intern Training Program, which has often been accused of enabling cheap labour and human rights violations. Japan will replace it with a new framework called the Employment for Skill Development program, as per Kyodo News.Foreign workers will be encouraged to upgrade to Specified Skilled Worker status after three years of employment under the new system, allowing them to stay in Japan for longer periods of time.<h2>How many people will be accepted under the programme?</h2>Japan is preparing to slightly scale back its intake of foreign workers under its specified skilled worker programme, even as it continues to rely heavily on overseas labour to support key sectors of its economy.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-concerned-for-big-boy-clinton-as-ex-prez-challenges-doj-to-release-all-epstein-files-someone-is-being-protected-1766471370994">Trump concerned for 'big boy' Clinton as ex-prez challenges DOJ to release ALL Epstein files: 'Someone is being protected'</a>A rough draft of a new government plan, presented to a panel of experts on Tuesday, shows that Japan intends to accept up to around 805,000 foreign workers under the specified skilled worker system by March 2029. This is marginally lower than the earlier target of 820,000, which had been set in March 2024. According to Kyodo News, officials believe the revised figure is more realistic, particularly if productivity improves through wider adoption of digital tools and automation.The draft outlines a broader picture of foreign labour in Japan. When both the existing technical intern programme and the specified skilled worker system are combined, the total number of foreign workers expected to be accepted would reach roughly 1.23 million over the same period. The Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, is expected to approve the plan in January after further internal discussions.One notable change in the proposal is a narrowing of sectors covered by the new training programme. While the current specified skilled worker system spans 19 industries, the revised framework will focus on 17 sectors. These include labour-intensive fields such as agriculture and construction, which continue to face acute worker shortages due to Japan’s ageing population and shrinking workforce.&nbsp;

Japan is planning a major overhaul of its foreign labour policies. Under it, it plans to admit 805,000 skilled foreign workers by 2029. All details here

Japan is reportedly preparing for a major overhaul of its foreign labour policies. The changes would balance a desperate need for workers with growing public concern over immigration, suggest reports. Under the overhaul, the government has announced plans to cap the number of trainees under its upcoming "Employment for Skill Development" program at approximately 426,000 for the first two years, starting in fiscal 2027. Also read | 'Most lethal' Trump-class warships are here! All you need to know about the largest battleship | Explained Why now? The move comes as Japan reviews its broader foreign-worker policies, including stricter measures against visa overstays, following instructions from Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Public concern about the growing number of foreign nationals in the country has also triggered the review, reports ANI. It comes as Japan grapples with a chronic labour shortage caused by its ageing population. To address this, the government plans to scrap the long-criticised Technical Intern Training Program, which has often been accused of enabling cheap labour and human rights violations. Japan will replace it with a new framework called the Employment for Skill Development program, as per Kyodo News. Foreign workers will be encouraged to upgrade to Specified Skilled Worker status after three years of employment under the new system, allowing them to stay in Japan for longer periods of time. How many people will be accepted under the programme? Japan is preparing to slightly scale back its intake of foreign workers under its specified skilled worker programme, even as it continues to rely heavily on overseas labour to support key sectors of its economy. Also read | Trump concerned for 'big boy' Clinton as ex-prez challenges DOJ to release ALL Epstein files: 'Someone is being protected' A rough draft of a new government plan, presented to a panel of experts on Tuesday, shows that Japan intends to accept up to around 805,000 foreign workers under the specified skilled worker system by March 2029. This is marginally lower than the earlier target of 820,000, which had been set in March 2024. According to Kyodo News, officials believe the revised figure is more realistic, particularly if productivity improves through wider adoption of digital tools and automation. The draft outlines a broader picture of foreign labour in Japan. When both the existing technical intern programme and the specified skilled worker system are combined, the total number of foreign workers expected to be accepted would reach roughly 1.23 million over the same period. The Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, is expected to approve the plan in January after further internal discussions. One notable change in the proposal is a narrowing of sectors covered by the new training programme. While the current specified skilled worker system spans 19 industries, the revised framework will focus on 17 sectors. These include labour-intensive fields such as agriculture and construction, which continue to face acute worker shortages due to Japan’s ageing population and shrinking workforce.

Japan is planning a major overhaul of its foreign labour policies. Under it, it plans to admit 805,000 skilled foreign workers by 2029. All details here

Faced with an ageing population, Japan to open doors to 1.2M+ foreign workers

What are Trump-class warships? All about their size, weapons and nuclear capabilities. Scroll down for details and pics

'Most lethal' Trump-class warships are here! All you need to know about the largest battleship | Explained

Asim Munir’s past remarks were at least partially responsible for the chain of events that led to the Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir and India's military response, ‘Operation Sindoor’, which brought the two nuclear-armed South Asian nations to the brink of an all-out war. The Pakistani army chief-turned field marshal has engaged in such rhetoric once again, this time exhorting Muslim nations to join forces against ‘enemies of Allah’. Speaking in Libya, Munir sought to portray Pakistan as a leading security actor and protector of the global Muslim community. He also did what is usually the role of a Pakistani prime minister: promising defence and military hardware to Libya and other Muslim nations, underlining his supremacy in Pakistan’s government decision-making apparatus. Here is what he said:<h2>What did Munir say to Muslim countries?</h2>Munir is on a tour of African and Arab nations. He delivered a speech last week in Libya, with whose armed forces Pakistan reportedly inked a $4 billion deal to sell weapons.In remarks made in English and peppered with Quranic verses, Munir evoked religious ties among Muslim countries. He said Muslim nations do not currently have might “because other nations have taken from the Muslim countries the learnings of technology.”He said that every piece of equipment and technology with Pakistan “is available for our brothers.” “Any assistance you need from Pakistan will be available at your doorstep,” he said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-divine-intervention-helped-pakistan-during-may-conflict-with-india-asim-munir-1766337259952">‘Divine intervention’ helped Pakistan during May conflict with India: Asim Munir</a><h2>Muslim countries destroyed in the past 20 years, claims Munir</h2>“If we look at the world, we find especially the Muslim world in great difficulty and pain,” he said, adding that seven or eight “magnificent Muslim countries, one after the other, have been destroyed” in the past 20 years.“Unfortunately, today the Muslim world has fallen to the treacheries, the machinations, and the conspiracies of those who want to ensure its downfall,” he said.He portrayed the contemporary world as one without the rule of law, saying it is the law of the jungle that prevails, where “might is right.”This might, he said, lies somewhere else today and is not with the Muslim world, because of the possession of knowledge “that they have taken from us.”Refering to “Iqra”, the first word in Quran, he said, “It is our religion in which Allah Almighty has ordained us to gather as much power as possible.”“Iqra” refers to the first word revealed in the Quran, which means “read” or “recite,” and is interpreted as a command to seek knowledge, learning and understanding.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-asim-munir-s-law-in-death-cell-no-permission-to-meet-protest-for-imran-khan-reignites-in-pakistan-as-sons-fear-they-ll-never-see-him-again-1765944590902">'Asim Munir’s law, death cell, no permission to meet': Protest for Imran Khan reignites in Pakistan as sons fear they'll 'never see him again'</a><h2>‘We were asked to be ready to strike terror in hearts of enemies of Allah’</h2>“We were asked, as Muslims, and we were supposed to be ready with the utmost of our power to strike terror in the hearts of those who are the enemies of Allah, our enemies, and those whom we do not know but Allah knows.”“That power is with someone else. And, my dear brothers, this is again a universal principle: who dares, wins. And who does not dare, cannot win. And again, it is a universal principle given to us by Allah Almighty,” he added, adding Quranic verses for impact.He repeated unfounded claims of having shot down Indian planes during Operation Sindoor.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/munir-pakistan-got-divine-help-during-operation-sindoor-1766432922958/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/munir-pakistan-got-divine-help-during-operation-sindoor-1766432922958/embed</a><h2>Pakistan is seeking new markets for its defence equipment</h2>As hinted in Munir's remarks and made clear from the $4 billion deal with Libya, Pakistan is engaging in increased defence trade, looking for more buyers for its military hardware and technologies. He appears to be reprising his role described by some social media users as the salesman of Pakistan.

Pakistan army chief Asim Munir, speaking in Libya, urged Muslim nations to unite and build military power. He offered Pakistani arms and technology, invoking religious rhetoric. Why is it problematic?

Asim Munir’s past remarks were at least partially responsible for the chain of events that led to the Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir and India's military response, ‘Operation Sindoor’, which brought the two nuclear-armed South Asian nations to the brink of an all-out war. The Pakistani army chief-turned field marshal has engaged in such rhetoric once again, this time exhorting Muslim nations to join forces against ‘enemies of Allah’. Speaking in Libya, Munir sought to portray Pakistan as a leading security actor and protector of the global Muslim community. He also did what is usually the role of a Pakistani prime minister: promising defence and military hardware to Libya and other Muslim nations, underlining his supremacy in Pakistan’s government decision-making apparatus. Here is what he said: What did Munir say to Muslim countries? Munir is on a tour of African and Arab nations. He delivered a speech last week in Libya, with whose armed forces Pakistan reportedly inked a $4 billion deal to sell weapons. In remarks made in English and peppered with Quranic verses, Munir evoked religious ties among Muslim countries. He said Muslim nations do not currently have might “because other nations have taken from the Muslim countries the learnings of technology.” He said that every piece of equipment and technology with Pakistan “is available for our brothers.” “Any assistance you need from Pakistan will be available at your doorstep,” he said. Also read: ‘Divine intervention’ helped Pakistan during May conflict with India: Asim Munir Muslim countries destroyed in the past 20 years, claims Munir “If we look at the world, we find especially the Muslim world in great difficulty and pain,” he said, adding that seven or eight “magnificent Muslim countries, one after the other, have been destroyed” in the past 20 years. “Unfortunately, today the Muslim world has fallen to the treacheries, the machinations, and the conspiracies of those who want to ensure its downfall,” he said. He portrayed the contemporary world as one without the rule of law, saying it is the law of the jungle that prevails, where “might is right.” This might, he said, lies somewhere else today and is not with the Muslim world, because of the possession of knowledge “that they have taken from us.” Refering to “Iqra”, the first word in Quran, he said, “It is our religion in which Allah Almighty has ordained us to gather as much power as possible.” “Iqra” refers to the first word revealed in the Quran, which means “read” or “recite,” and is interpreted as a command to seek knowledge, learning and understanding. Also read: 'Asim Munir’s law, death cell, no permission to meet': Protest for Imran Khan reignites in Pakistan as sons fear they'll 'never see him again' ‘We were asked to be ready to strike terror in hearts of enemies of Allah’ “We were asked, as Muslims, and we were supposed to be ready with the utmost of our power to strike terror in the hearts of those who are the enemies of Allah, our enemies, and those whom we do not know but Allah knows.” “That power is with someone else. And, my dear brothers, this is again a universal principle: who dares, wins. And who does not dare, cannot win. And again, it is a universal principle given to us by Allah Almighty,” he added, adding Quranic verses for impact. He repeated unfounded claims of having shot down Indian planes during Operation Sindoor. https://www.wionews.com/videos/munir-pakistan-got-divine-help-during-operation-sindoor-1766432922958/embed Pakistan is seeking new markets for its defence equipment As hinted in Munir's remarks and made clear from the $4 billion deal with Libya, Pakistan is engaging in increased defence trade, looking for more buyers for its military hardware and technologies. He appears to be reprising his role described by some social media users as the salesman of Pakistan.

Pakistan army chief Asim Munir, speaking in Libya, urged Muslim nations to unite and build military power. He offered Pakistani arms and technology, while using religious rhetoric. Why is it problematic?

Asim Munir provokes again: This time, he wants Muslim nations to join forces to ‘strike terror’ on enemies

A suitcase containing the Hapsburg (Habsburg) family Jewellery, believed to have been lost for 100 years following World War I, has appeared in a Canadian vault. Among the jewels was one 137-Karat diamond called the Florentine, a diamond-encrusted Order of the Golden Fleece, the house order of the Hapsburg family. They were rediscovered in November and will be on public display in Canada in 2026.&nbsp;The pear-shaped, yellow-hued, double-rose cut sparkling Florentine diamond has a rich history. The Medici family, parents of Marie Antenotte, the rulers of Florence, Italy, had owned it. It entered the Austrian Royal family through matrimony. The last owner of the diamond was Empress Zita, the wife of Charles I of the House of Hapsburg and the last monarch of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.&nbsp;The assassination of the Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the uncle of Charles I, started World War I. They reportedly fled with the diamond following World War I. After that, there were revolutions, another world war, &nbsp;and the jewel was believed to be lost. The tale of the lost diamond became so riveting that it inspired internationally bestselling author Amy Meyerson's novel, “The Imperfects”.<h2>How did the Florentine Diamond end up in the Canadian vault?</h2>The violent revolutions by the Bolsheviks and anarchists that followed World War I engulfed Europe in 1918. It was the end of the monarchy and the rise of dictators like Lenin, Hitler, and Mussolini. To safeguard the inheritance, Charles fled to Switzerland, where he lived in exile with his wife Zita. After two failed attempts to restore the Monarchy, he fled to the Portuguese island of Madeira. Charles passed away in 1922 in Madeira, and soon Zita took exile in Belgium with her 7 sons, where they narrowly escaped Nazi bombings in the 1940s, and they moved to New York, United States. Cut off from the European royalities, they lived as house guest in the US and finally settled in Quebec, Canada. Zita placed the last of the remaining heirlooms in a suitcase, and it was placed in a vault without anybody's knowledge. Zita moved to Europe in 1953, leaving the diamond behind in Canada. The diamond was believed to be lost in the journey. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Karl von Hapsburg-Lothringen, 64-year-old grandson of Charles, said that it was kept hidden by Zita until revealed to her son's Robert and Rodolphe. They honoured her wish to conceal the information for 100 years after Emperor Charles' death. They then pass the information to their children. For the outside world, it was lost. There were many theories, like the Hapsburgs, like the Romanovs of Russia sold the diamonds and other inheritance. Another one was that the diamond was given away to a servant who was in South America. However, the family claims it did not spread any of these rumours, and these have been around since 1921, when the Washington Post reported that the Florentine Diamond was lost. It was valued somewhat around $133,654 in the early 19th century. The family have not shared an estimated value of the diamond, but other royal diamonds like the Hope Diamond are valued at over $200 million, and the Regent Diamond at $60 million.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The legendary Florentine Diamond of the Hapsburgs, lost after World War I, has resurfaced in a Canadian vault, ending a century-old royal mystery.

A suitcase containing the Hapsburg (Habsburg) family Jewellery, believed to have been lost for 100 years following World War I, has appeared in a Canadian vault. Among the jewels was one 137-Karat diamond called the Florentine, a diamond-encrusted Order of the Golden Fleece, the house order of the Hapsburg family. They were rediscovered in November and will be on public display in Canada in 2026. The pear-shaped, yellow-hued, double-rose cut sparkling Florentine diamond has a rich history. The Medici family, parents of Marie Antenotte, the rulers of Florence, Italy, had owned it. It entered the Austrian Royal family through matrimony. The last owner of the diamond was Empress Zita, the wife of Charles I of the House of Hapsburg and the last monarch of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The assassination of the Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the uncle of Charles I, started World War I. They reportedly fled with the diamond following World War I. After that, there were revolutions, another world war, and the jewel was believed to be lost. The tale of the lost diamond became so riveting that it inspired internationally bestselling author Amy Meyerson's novel, “The Imperfects”. How did the Florentine Diamond end up in the Canadian vault? The violent revolutions by the Bolsheviks and anarchists that followed World War I engulfed Europe in 1918. It was the end of the monarchy and the rise of dictators like Lenin, Hitler, and Mussolini. To safeguard the inheritance, Charles fled to Switzerland, where he lived in exile with his wife Zita. After two failed attempts to restore the Monarchy, he fled to the Portuguese island of Madeira. Charles passed away in 1922 in Madeira, and soon Zita took exile in Belgium with her 7 sons, where they narrowly escaped Nazi bombings in the 1940s, and they moved to New York, United States. Cut off from the European royalities, they lived as house guest in the US and finally settled in Quebec, Canada. Zita placed the last of the remaining heirlooms in a suitcase, and it was placed in a vault without anybody's knowledge. Zita moved to Europe in 1953, leaving the diamond behind in Canada. The diamond was believed to be lost in the journey. Karl von Hapsburg-Lothringen, 64-year-old grandson of Charles, said that it was kept hidden by Zita until revealed to her son's Robert and Rodolphe. They honoured her wish to conceal the information for 100 years after Emperor Charles' death. They then pass the information to their children. For the outside world, it was lost. There were many theories, like the Hapsburgs, like the Romanovs of Russia sold the diamonds and other inheritance. Another one was that the diamond was given away to a servant who was in South America. However, the family claims it did not spread any of these rumours, and these have been around since 1921, when the Washington Post reported that the Florentine Diamond was lost. It was valued somewhat around $133,654 in the early 19th century. The family have not shared an estimated value of the diamond, but other royal diamonds like the Hope Diamond are valued at over $200 million, and the Regent Diamond at $60 million.

The legendary Florentine Diamond of the Habsburgs, lost after World War I, has resurfaced in a Canadian vault, ending a century-old royal mystery.

Lost for 100 years since World War I, the Florentine diamond of the Hapsburgs found in a Canadian Vault

Two boats were trapped in deep mud after a massive sinkhole developed in a canal in the English county of Shropshire, England. Following the incident, emergency services were declared, labelling it as a &nbsp;“major incident.”&nbsp;A video shared by the Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service on social media platform X shows that the two canal boats trapped in the sinkhole, measuring nearly 50 by 50 meters (approximately 164 square feet), while a third boat is inclined over the slope of the sinkhole.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Update from Whitchurch: A message from Scott Hurford at the scene this evening Following a breach in the canal wall, over 50 firefighters responded swiftly. Thankfully, there are no casualties, and the incident has now moved out of the emergency phase. <a href="https://t.co/ONtGji89Ve">pic.twitter.com/ONtGji89Ve</a>&mdash; Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service (@shropsfire) <a href="https://twitter.com/shropsfire/status/2003140205268918621?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service said Monday that soon after the incident, rescue teams responded to a “significant breach” of the Shropshire Union Canal in Whitchurch, which is a historic market town near the Welsh border, according to a report in CNN.&nbsp;Scott Hurford, Area Manager at the service, said a “major incident” was declared at 5.17 am, though the situation was later assessed as “stable,” adding that search and rescue operations have now concluded. He also added that no injuries have been reported, as no individuals were believed to be on board the affected boats.<h3>Rescue operations launched</h3>Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service said crews carried out rescue operations in difficult conditions, citing unstable ground and “rapidly moving water,” but successfully brought more than 10 members of the public to safety. However, no further details about those rescued were released.&nbsp;Emergency services have urged the public to stay away from the area as response teams continue to manage the incident. Canal boats are long vessels built for Britain’s narrow canal network and were traditionally used to carry cargo, but are now commonly used as floating homes and for leisure activities.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the largest canal charity in the United Kingdom, the Canal and River Trust, said on Monday that it was launching an initial probe into the possible cause of the breach and will provide further details. “Our teams are on site and have dammed off the affected section of the canal. The priority is the safety of boaters and those in the immediate area,” the charity said in a statement.

The Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service said Monday that soon after the incident, rescue teams responded to a “significant breach” of the Shropshire Union Canal in Whitchurch, which is a historic market town near the Welsh border.

Two boats were trapped in deep mud after a massive sinkhole developed in a canal in the English county of Shropshire, England. Following the incident, emergency services were declared, labelling it as a “major incident.” A video shared by the Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service on social media platform X shows that the two canal boats trapped in the sinkhole, measuring nearly 50 by 50 meters (approximately 164 square feet), while a third boat is inclined over the slope of the sinkhole.

The Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service said Monday that soon after the incident, rescue teams responded to a “significant breach” of the Shropshire Union Canal in Whitchurch, which is a historic market town near the Welsh border.

WATCH: Giant sinkhole in England's canal swallows boats, rescue operation launched

A draft Pentagon report has revealed that China has likely deployed over 100 intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) across its latest silo fields, with an aim for rapid nuclear expansion. The report highlights China’s growing military ambitions and strategic focus on Taiwan. It also suggests that China is modernising its nuclear arsenal faster than any other nuclear-armed nation. According to the report, China’s nuclear warhead stockpile stood in the low 600s in 2024, but projections indicate it could exceed 1,000 warheads by 2030. The Pentagon report also notes that China has no plans for arms control, even after appeals from the world leaders including US President Donald Trump. The report comes ahead of the 2025 expiration of the New START treaty, raising concerns over a potential three-way nuclear arms race. Meanwhile, Beijing has maintained a self-defense nuclear strategy and a no-first-use policy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-pakistan-s-been-testing-trump-makes-big-nuclear-weapons-test-revelation-repeats-india-pak-nuke-war-claims-1762141536694">'Pakistan's been testing...': Trump makes BIG nuclear weapons test revelation, repeats 'India-Pak nuke war' claims</a>&nbsp;It is significant that the report highlighting Chinese nuclear expansion and its aims, comes months after Trump said that he has instructed the US Department of War to start testing nuclear weapons "immediately." Trump had said that he took the decision because of nuclear tests by Russia and China.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-hopes-us-will-abide-by-nuclear-testing-ban-after-trump-s-big-order-to-pentagon-1761811388659">China ‘hopes’ US will abide by nuclear testing ban after Trump's big order to Pentagon</a>&nbsp;The draft report estimates more than 100 DF-31 ICBMs loaded in silo fields near the Mongolia border. It also pointed at China's Taiwan plans, stating, “Beijing was refining its military options to take Taiwan by brute force,” adding that one option could include strikes 1,500-2,000 nautical miles from China. "In sufficient volume, these strikes could seriously challenge and disrupt US presence in or around a conflict in the Asia-Pacific region," it added. The report claimed, "China expects to be able to fight and win a war on Taiwan by the end of 2027."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-favouring-pakistan-and-distancing-from-india-here-s-what-trump-admin-said-amid-munir-s-nuke-threat-and-tariff-war-1755059139784">US favouring Pakistan and distancing from India? Here's what Trump admin said amid Munir's nuke threat and tariff war</a>&nbsp;

A Pentagon draft report reveals China has likely deployed over 100 ICBMs and shows no interest in arms control. With nuclear stockpiles growing toward 1,000 warheads by 2030 and military focus on Taiwan, tensions with the US may intensify amid PLA anti-corruption purges.

A draft Pentagon report has revealed that China has likely deployed over 100 intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) across its latest silo fields, with an aim for rapid nuclear expansion. The report highlights China’s growing military ambitions and strategic focus on Taiwan. It also suggests that China is modernising its nuclear arsenal faster than any other nuclear-armed nation. According to the report, China’s nuclear warhead stockpile stood in the low 600s in 2024, but projections indicate it could exceed 1,000 warheads by 2030. The Pentagon report also notes that China has no plans for arms control, even after appeals from the world leaders including US President Donald Trump. The report comes ahead of the 2025 expiration of the New START treaty, raising concerns over a potential three-way nuclear arms race. Meanwhile, Beijing has maintained a self-defense nuclear strategy and a no-first-use policy. Also Read: 'Pakistan's been testing...': Trump makes BIG nuclear weapons test revelation, repeats 'India-Pak nuke war' claims It is significant that the report highlighting Chinese nuclear expansion and its aims, comes months after Trump said that he has instructed the US Department of War to start testing nuclear weapons "immediately." Trump had said that he took the decision because of nuclear tests by Russia and China. Also Read: China ‘hopes’ US will abide by nuclear testing ban after Trump's big order to Pentagon The draft report estimates more than 100 DF-31 ICBMs loaded in silo fields near the Mongolia border. It also pointed at China's Taiwan plans, stating, “Beijing was refining its military options to take Taiwan by brute force,” adding that one option could include strikes 1,500-2,000 nautical miles from China. "In sufficient volume, these strikes could seriously challenge and disrupt US presence in or around a conflict in the Asia-Pacific region," it added. The report claimed, "China expects to be able to fight and win a war on Taiwan by the end of 2027." Also Read: US favouring Pakistan and distancing from India? Here's what Trump admin said amid Munir's nuke threat and tariff war

A Pentagon draft report reveals China has likely deployed over 100 ICBMs and shows no interest in arms control. With nuclear stockpiles growing toward 1,000 warheads by 2030 and military focus on Taiwan, tensions with the US may intensify amid PLA anti-corruption purges.

China to take Taiwan by brute force by 2027? Pentagon draft report claims Beijing loaded more than 100 ICBMs in silo fields

Violence erupted outside Bangladesh’s High Commission in New Delhi on Tuesday (Dec 23) when protesters clashed with police after a Hindu man was killed in India’s neighbouring nation, which is gripped with unrest. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Pranay Verma, over the incident.Members of Vishva Hindu Parishad and other Hindu organisations protest near the Bangladesh High Commission staged protest over atrocities against Hindus and the mob lynching of Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | Members of Vishva Hindu Parishad and other Hindu organisations protest near the Bangladesh High Commission over the atrocities against Hindus and the mob lynching of Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh <a href="https://t.co/0nrtZ3XWYG">pic.twitter.com/0nrtZ3XWYG</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2003350271267889431?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/wid<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Members of Vishva Hindu Parishad and other Hindu organisations protest near the Bangladesh High Commission in Delhi over the atrocities against Hindus and the mob lynching of Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh (Source: ANI) <a href="https://t.co/M2DyIjzW9X">pic.twitter.com/M2DyIjzW9X</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2003354279990694191?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>gets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In a statement, the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry condemned the violence outside its diplomatic establishments in New Delhi.“Bangladesh condemns such acts of premeditated violence or intimidation against diplomatic establishments, which not only endanger the safety of diplomatic personnel but also undermine the principles of mutual respect and values of peace and tolerance,” the statement said.“The Government of Bangladesh called upon the Government of India to conduct a thorough investigation into the incidents, to take all necessary measures to prevent the recurrence of such acts and to ensure safety and security of Bangladesh’s diplomatic missions and related facilities in India,” the statement added.Incidents of vandalism were also reported at the Bangladesh Visa Centre in Siliguri on Monday (Dec 22) and the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi on Saturday (Dec 20). Following this, Bangladesh suspended issuing of visa in three Indian cities, including Delhi.<h2>What is happening in Bangladesh?</h2>Last week on Thursday (Dec 18), a Hindu man was beaten by a mob, then tied to a tree and set ablaze in Mymensingh amid escalating tensions in Bangladesh. Some other incidents against Hindu minorities were also reported in the country.Violence broke out in Bangladesh after the killing of Hadi, the founder of Inqilab Mancha, a radical student group of Dhaka University.Hadi, the leader of the country’s 2024 pro-democracy uprising, was a polarising figure known for his strong anti-India stance. He was shot by masked assailants while leaving a mosque in Dhaka. Hadi was airlifted to a hospital in Singapore for treatment, but succumbed to his injuries on Thursday (Dec 18).&nbsp;On Monday (Dec 22), another leader of the National Citizen Party (NCP) was shot by miscreants in Khulna. Gunmen opened fire at Motaleb Shikder, Khulna divisional chief of NCP and central organiser of NCP Sramik Shakti, targeting his head around 11:45 am.&nbsp;

Members of Vishva Hindu Parishad and other Hindu organisations protest near the Bangladesh High Commission staged protest over atrocities against Hindus and the mob lynching of Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh.

Violence erupted outside Bangladesh’s High Commission in New Delhi on Tuesday (Dec 23) when protesters clashed with police after a Hindu man was killed in India’s neighbouring nation, which is gripped with unrest. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Pranay Verma, over the incident. Members of Vishva Hindu Parishad and other Hindu organisations protest near the Bangladesh High Commission staged protest over atrocities against Hindus and the mob lynching of Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh.

Members of Vishva Hindu Parishad and other Hindu organisations protest near the Bangladesh High Commission staged protest over atrocities against Hindus and the mob lynching of Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh.

WATCH | Clashes erupt outside Dhaka’s High Commission in New Delhi after Hindu man killed in Bangladesh

Bill Clinton, whose pictures in the recently released Epstein files have created quite the splash on Monday (Dec 22) challenged Donald Trump's Justice Department to release all remaining files relating to the former US president and the sex offender. Accusing the Trump administration of trying to smear him, while protecting others (hint: Trump himself). This comes as the current POTUS, Trump, in a statement, expressed his concern that "Big boy" Clinton and other people who "innocently met" Epstein risk having their reputations ruined by the release of the Epstein files.<h2>Bill Clinton demands "full transparency"</h2>In a statement, Clinton's spokesperson Angel Urena alleged that the files released so far by the Department of Justice, "and the manner in which it did so, makes one thing clear: someone or something is being protected".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/house-democrats-drop-epstein-photos-from-disturbing-paedophilic-lolita-quotes-on-bosoms-to-price-tag-for-girls-shocking-pics-reveal-bill-gates-1766131614452">Epstein files: Disturbing paedophilic quotes on bosoms to price tags for girls, here's what shocking new pics reveal</a>Speaking on behalf of the former president, Urena added, "We do not know whom, what, or why. But we do know this: we need no such protection".The files, released on Friday, contained numerous references to Clinton, including pictures, one of which showed the former president in a pool with Epstein's accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell. However, notable references to Trump, a known longtime friend of Epstein, were limited.Clinton's spokesperson called on Attorney General Pam Bondi to "immediately release any remaining materials" relating to the ex-president, including photographs, court transcripts, and interview notes. "Refusal to do so will confirm the widespread suspicion of the Department of Justice’s actions to date and not about transparency, but about insinuation—using selective releases to imply wrongdoing about individuals who have already been repeatedly cleared by the very same Department of Justice over many years, under Presidents and Attorneys General of both parties," he added.<h2>Trump on Bill Clinton</h2>Meanwhile, Trump, in his first comments since the latest Epstein files were released, pouted that the resulting furore was eclipsing his achievements. "This whole thing with Epstein is a way of trying to deflect from the tremendous success that the Republican Party has," he told reporters at his Mar-a-Lago home.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-are-epstein-files-still-redacted-doj-denies-cover-up-meant-to-shield-trump-1766367317764">Why are Epstein files still redacted? DOJ denies cover-up meant to shield Trump</a>On Clinton, he said, "I like Bill Clinton. I've always gotten along with Bill Clinton. I hate to see photos come out of him". He acknowledged that "There's photos of me too," claiming "Everybody was friendly with this guy (Epstein).""Bill Clinton’s a big boy, he can handle it," he said, adding "But you probably have pictures being exposed of other people that innocently met Jeffrey Epstein years ago, many years ago, and they’re highly respected bankers and lawyers and others."

Bill Clinton hit back after Epstein files resurfaced photos linking him to Epstein, accusing Trump’s DOJ of selective leaks to smear him while shielding others. Clinton demanded full transparency. Trump said Clinton can “handle it” and warned innocent reputations are being ruined.

Bill Clinton, whose pictures in the recently released Epstein files have created quite the splash on Monday (Dec 22) challenged Donald Trump's Justice Department to release all remaining files relating to the former US president and the sex offender. Accusing the Trump administration of trying to smear him, while protecting others (hint: Trump himself). This comes as the current POTUS, Trump, in a statement, expressed his concern that "Big boy" Clinton and other people who "innocently met" Epstein risk having their reputations ruined by the release of the Epstein files. Bill Clinton demands "full transparency" In a statement, Clinton's spokesperson Angel Urena alleged that the files released so far by the Department of Justice, "and the manner in which it did so, makes one thing clear: someone or something is being protected". Also read | Epstein files: Disturbing paedophilic quotes on bosoms to price tags for girls, here's what shocking new pics reveal Speaking on behalf of the former president, Urena added, "We do not know whom, what, or why. But we do know this: we need no such protection". The files, released on Friday, contained numerous references to Clinton, including pictures, one of which showed the former president in a pool with Epstein's accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell. However, notable references to Trump, a known longtime friend of Epstein, were limited. Clinton's spokesperson called on Attorney General Pam Bondi to "immediately release any remaining materials" relating to the ex-president, including photographs, court transcripts, and interview notes. "Refusal to do so will confirm the widespread suspicion of the Department of Justice’s actions to date and not about transparency, but about insinuation—using selective releases to imply wrongdoing about individuals who have already been repeatedly cleared by the very same Department of Justice over many years, under Presidents and Attorneys General of both parties," he added. Trump on Bill Clinton Meanwhile, Trump, in his first comments since the latest Epstein files were released, pouted that the resulting furore was eclipsing his achievements. "This whole thing with Epstein is a way of trying to deflect from the tremendous success that the Republican Party has," he told reporters at his Mar-a-Lago home. Also read | Why are Epstein files still redacted? DOJ denies cover-up meant to shield Trump On Clinton, he said, "I like Bill Clinton. I've always gotten along with Bill Clinton. I hate to see photos come out of him". He acknowledged that "There's photos of me too," claiming "Everybody was friendly with this guy (Epstein)." "Bill Clinton’s a big boy, he can handle it," he said, adding "But you probably have pictures being exposed of other people that innocently met Jeffrey Epstein years ago, many years ago, and they’re highly respected bankers and lawyers and others."

Bill Clinton hit back after Epstein files resurfaced photos linking him to Epstein, accusing Trump’s DOJ of selective leaks to smear him while shielding others. Clinton demanded full transparency. Trump said Clinton can “handle it” and warned innocent reputations are being ruined.

Trump concerned for 'big boy' Clinton as ex-prez challenges DOJ to release ALL Epstein files: 'Someone is being protected'

In an alternative world, 2025 would be called the year of Vladimir Putin. But we do not live in that alternative world. The Russian president was in the headlines for most of the year because of the Ukraine war, in which his military continued to make gains. In spite of the European Union-led West’s attempts to ostracise him, Putin emerged from the wilderness, mainly due to a more conciliatory stance by US President Donald Trump, who invited him to a summit in Alaska that set the ball rolling for a peace process, though no concrete results have come out of it so far. Domestically, in spite of efforts by the West to sanction the Russian economy out of existence, the nation continued to grow, albeit at a slower pace.For the first part of the year, Putin still remained a pariah for the West, skipping international events due to the 2023 International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant hanging over him in connection with alleged war crimes in Ukraine. Yet Putin continued to be a voice to reckon with, making Russia’s independent position clear on issues including current US actions against Venezuela. Here is a snapshot of Putin in 2025.<h2>Ostracised by West, Putin gets the red carpet treatment in US</h2>The credit goes to Trump for going against the grain and calling Putin for a summit in Alaska's Anchorage in August. This could be described as the most important diplomatic outing of Putin since the Ukraine war began in 2022. Nothing substantial came out of it, though it would be fair to say that at least a first move was made towards peace. This marked a sharp departure from Trump’s predecessor Joe Biden’s approach of arming Ukraine and keeping Russia away from the international spotlight.Putin stood his ground on the war, refusing to cede territory gained by Russia during the three-year military operation in Ukraine. Europe, mainly led by figures such as French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, attempted to squeeze Russia out of the global oil trade, while providing billions of dollars in military and financial aid to Ukraine.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-s-marathon-annual-presser-turns-into-ask-me-anything-1766288066564/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-s-marathon-annual-presser-turns-into-ask-me-anything-1766288066564/embed</a><h2>Core 5: A US-led grouping with Russia that didn't take off</h2>Late this year, there were reports of a leaked draft US national security document that argued for bringing Russia back into the fold of the international community. It spoke of a so-called “Core Five”, reportedly envisaged as a grouping of the US, Russia, China and Japan, as an alternative to the G7. The G7 itself had once been the G8 before Russia was expelled following the annexation of Crimea in 2014. The report containing the 'Core Five' idea was spiked, and possibly leaked deliberately to kill it before it could gain traction. If the germinating idea is taken at face value, it reflects American thinking that, no matter how hard the West tries, Putin and his nation cannot be wiped off from the global chessboard.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-end-war-condition-west-respect-security-interests-1766151258220">Putin says Russia will end ‘special military operations’ if West respects its security interests</a><h2>Putin’s diplomacy: Hosting leaders in Russia, skipped summits and in-person outings</h2>Most of Putin's diplomatic engagements were done from Moscow. He hosted global leaders, and participated in several summits via video conferencing.Putin resumed limited international travel with the Alaska summit. He followed this with participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in China.He topped off the year with a state visit to India, after having skipped the 2023 G20 summit in New Delhi due to the prevailing hostile approach towards Russia at the time.He skipped the BRICS summit in Brazil in July, due to the ICC warrant, choosing instead to attend virtually. Putin also did not attend the G20 summit in South Africa, possibly because the host nation, as a signatory to the Rome Statute, would have been obligated to act on the ICC arrest warrant.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-3i-atlas-comet-secret-weapon-joke-press-conference-1766232102632">Putin jokes about 3I/ATLAS comet as 'Russia’s secret weapon' at annual press conference</a><h2>Putin’s intentions are questioned, but he remains an important player</h2>Putin’s legacy will be judged depending on the lens one uses. The Western media narrative will make you believe that he is an autocratic expansionist who wants to invade not only Ukraine but possibly other parts of Europe, drawing comparisons with historical aggressors like Hitler.&nbsp;Or he could be considered a nationalist leader who does not want NATO or Europe to gain a strategic foothold in Ukraine or other former Soviet states. From this perspective, he is attempting to create a territorial buffer along Russia’s borders, with the invasion of Ukraine being one of the steps towards that goal.Putin remains a popular leader in a system best described as a democracy with Russian characteristics. One way or another, he will go down in history as a leader who openly challenged the established hegemonies of the West.<h2>Russian economic growth will determine Putin’s future</h2>Under normal circumstances, the Russian economy might have grown more strongly. However the Russian oil, one of its key exports, has faced restrictions in energy markets through punitive sanctions and price caps imposed by Western countries. In spite of the pressures of war, the Russian economy recorded roughly 3–4 per cent growth in 2024, driven largely by state spending and defence-related production. As sanctions and structural constraints began to bite, growth slowed markedly in 2025, hovering around 1 per cent and only narrowly avoiding contraction.The future of Putin’s popularity will depend on whether ordinary Russians begin to face sustained economic hardship due to the war. That is arguably what the West hopes for: internal unrest triggered by economic turmoil that could weaken his regime. So far, however, Putin has managed to prevent a collapse of the Russian economy. If the war ends in 2026 and diplomatic efforts bear fruit, Putin may yet avoid that ignominy.

The year 2025 saw Vladimir Putin emerge back on the global stage, despite sanctions and isolation. As an ICC arrest warrant loomed, he attended the Trump-led Alaska summit, and went on state visit to India, reaffirming Russia’s central role in world politics

In an alternative world, 2025 would be called the year of Vladimir Putin. But we do not live in that alternative world. The Russian president was in the headlines for most of the year because of the Ukraine war, in which his military continued to make gains. In spite of the European Union-led West’s attempts to ostracise him, Putin emerged from the wilderness, mainly due to a more conciliatory stance by US President Donald Trump, who invited him to a summit in Alaska that set the ball rolling for a peace process, though no concrete results have come out of it so far. Domestically, in spite of efforts by the West to sanction the Russian economy out of existence, the nation continued to grow, albeit at a slower pace. For the first part of the year, Putin still remained a pariah for the West, skipping international events due to the 2023 International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant hanging over him in connection with alleged war crimes in Ukraine. Yet Putin continued to be a voice to reckon with, making Russia’s independent position clear on issues including current US actions against Venezuela. Here is a snapshot of Putin in 2025. Ostracised by West, Putin gets the red carpet treatment in US The credit goes to Trump for going against the grain and calling Putin for a summit in Alaska's Anchorage in August. This could be described as the most important diplomatic outing of Putin since the Ukraine war began in 2022. Nothing substantial came out of it, though it would be fair to say that at least a first move was made towards peace. This marked a sharp departure from Trump’s predecessor Joe Biden’s approach of arming Ukraine and keeping Russia away from the international spotlight. Putin stood his ground on the war, refusing to cede territory gained by Russia during the three-year military operation in Ukraine. Europe, mainly led by figures such as French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, attempted to squeeze Russia out of the global oil trade, while providing billions of dollars in military and financial aid to Ukraine. https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-s-marathon-annual-presser-turns-into-ask-me-anything-1766288066564/embed Core 5: A US-led grouping with Russia that didn't take off Late this year, there were reports of a leaked draft US national security document that argued for bringing Russia back into the fold of the international community. It spoke of a so-called “Core Five”, reportedly envisaged as a grouping of the US, Russia, China and Japan, as an alternative to the G7. The G7 itself had once been the G8 before Russia was expelled following the annexation of Crimea in 2014. The report containing the 'Core Five' idea was spiked, and possibly leaked deliberately to kill it before it could gain traction. If the germinating idea is taken at face value, it reflects American thinking that, no matter how hard the West tries, Putin and his nation cannot be wiped off from the global chessboard. Also read: Putin says Russia will end ‘special military operations’ if West respects its security interests Putin’s diplomacy: Hosting leaders in Russia, skipped summits and in-person outings Most of Putin's diplomatic engagements were done from Moscow. He hosted global leaders, and participated in several summits via video conferencing. Putin resumed limited international travel with the Alaska summit. He followed this with participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in China. He topped off the year with a state visit to India, after having skipped the 2023 G20 summit in New Delhi due to the prevailing hostile approach towards Russia at the time. He skipped the BRICS summit in Brazil in July, due to the ICC warrant, choosing instead to attend virtually. Putin also did not attend the G20 summit in South Africa, possibly because the host nation, as a signatory to the Rome Statute, would have been obligated to act on the ICC arrest warrant. Also read: Putin jokes about 3I/ATLAS comet as 'Russia’s secret weapon' at annual press conference Putin’s intentions are questioned, but he remains an important player Putin’s legacy will be judged depending on the lens one uses. The Western media narrative will make you believe that he is an autocratic expansionist who wants to invade not only Ukraine but possibly other parts of Europe, drawing comparisons with historical aggressors like Hitler. Or he could be considered a nationalist leader who does not want NATO or Europe to gain a strategic foothold in Ukraine or other former Soviet states. From this perspective, he is attempting to create a territorial buffer along Russia’s borders, with the invasion of Ukraine being one of the steps towards that goal. Putin remains a popular leader in a system best described as a democracy with Russian characteristics. One way or another, he will go down in history as a leader who openly challenged the established hegemonies of the West. Russian economic growth will determine Putin’s future Under normal circumstances, the Russian economy might have grown more strongly. However the Russian oil, one of its key exports, has faced restrictions in energy markets through punitive sanctions and price caps imposed by Western countries. In spite of the pressures of war, the Russian economy recorded roughly 3–4 per cent growth in 2024, driven largely by state spending and defence-related production. As sanctions and structural constraints began to bite, growth slowed markedly in 2025, hovering around 1 per cent and only narrowly avoiding contraction. The future of Putin’s popularity will depend on whether ordinary Russians begin to face sustained economic hardship due to the war. That is arguably what the West hopes for: internal unrest triggered by economic turmoil that could weaken his regime. So far, however, Putin has managed to prevent a collapse of the Russian economy. If the war ends in 2026 and diplomatic efforts bear fruit, Putin may yet avoid that ignominy.

The year 2025 saw Vladimir Putin emerge back on the global stage, despite sanctions and isolation. As an ICC arrest warrant loomed, he attended the Trump-led Alaska summit, and went on state visit to India, reaffirming Russia’s central role in world politics

Year-ender 2025: The year of Putin, when the ostracised leader returned to the global stage

The US Department of War on Monday (Dec 22) announced that the Pentagon is partnering with Elon Musk’s Grok, deploying the artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem across its government systems. The agency added that “frontier‑grade capabilities” of xAI’s Grok family of models will be integrated into GenAI.mil, the department’s recently launched AI platform that will be used by three million military and civilian personnel.This marks another key announcement of Musk’s role in the Trump administration. The billionaire has earlier led the Department of Government Efficiency, aimed at scaling down and cutting federal spending.“Today, the War Department officially entered into an agreement with xAI, paving the way for the deployment of its advanced capabilities on GenAI.mil,” the Department of War said in a statement. “This move builds on the rapid deployment of cutting‑edge AI across the Department's 3 million military and civilian personnel.”The initial deployment of the AI systems is scheduled for early 2026, enabling all military and civilian personnel to utilise xAI’s capabilities for the secure handling of sensitive but unclassified information, without compromising safety protocols.“This initiative will soon embed xAI's frontier AI systems, based on the Grok family of models, directly into GenAI.mil. Targeted for initial deployment in early 2026, this integration will allow all military and civilian personnel to use xAI's capabilities at Impact Level 5 (IL5), enabling the secure handling of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in daily workflows,” the department said. It added, “Users will also gain access to real‑time global insights from the X platform, providing War Department personnel with a decisive information advantage.”In a statement, xAI said, “This new partnership between xAI and the DoW’s Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office (CDAO) brings xAI’s Frontier AI systems, powered by the Grok family of models, to both Enterprise AI and critical mission use cases.”The company added, “In addition to Enterprise use cases, xAI is bringing the power of Frontier AI and real-time insights directly to the warfighter. Through an ongoing, long-term partnership with the DoW and other mission partners, xAI will make available a family of government-optimized foundation models to support classified operational workloads.”The War Department said that it will continue scaling its AI ecosystem \for speed, security, and decision superiority. “Newly IL5-certified capabilities will empower every aspect of the Department's workforce, turning AI into a daily operational asset. This announcement marks another milestone in America's AI revolution, and the War Department is driving that momentum forward,” it added.

This marks another key announcement of Musk’s role in the Trump administration. The billionaire has earlier led the Department of Government Efficiency, aimed at scaling down and cutting federal spending.

The US Department of War on Monday (Dec 22) announced that the Pentagon is partnering with Elon Musk’s Grok, deploying the artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem across its government systems. The agency added that “frontier‑grade capabilities” of xAI’s Grok family of models will be integrated into GenAI.mil, the department’s recently launched AI platform that will be used by three million military and civilian personnel. This marks another key announcement of Musk’s role in the Trump administration. The billionaire has earlier led the Department of Government Efficiency, aimed at scaling down and cutting federal spending. “Today, the War Department officially entered into an agreement with xAI, paving the way for the deployment of its advanced capabilities on GenAI.mil,” the Department of War said in a statement. “This move builds on the rapid deployment of cutting‑edge AI across the Department's 3 million military and civilian personnel.” The initial deployment of the AI systems is scheduled for early 2026, enabling all military and civilian personnel to utilise xAI’s capabilities for the secure handling of sensitive but unclassified information, without compromising safety protocols. “This initiative will soon embed xAI's frontier AI systems, based on the Grok family of models, directly into GenAI.mil. Targeted for initial deployment in early 2026, this integration will allow all military and civilian personnel to use xAI's capabilities at Impact Level 5 (IL5), enabling the secure handling of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in daily workflows,” the department said. It added, “Users will also gain access to real‑time global insights from the X platform, providing War Department personnel with a decisive information advantage.” In a statement, xAI said, “This new partnership between xAI and the DoW’s Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office (CDAO) brings xAI’s Frontier AI systems, powered by the Grok family of models, to both Enterprise AI and critical mission use cases.” The company added, “In addition to Enterprise use cases, xAI is bringing the power of Frontier AI and real-time insights directly to the warfighter. Through an ongoing, long-term partnership with the DoW and other mission partners, xAI will make available a family of government-optimized foundation models to support classified operational workloads.” The War Department said that it will continue scaling its AI ecosystem \for speed, security, and decision superiority. “Newly IL5-certified capabilities will empower every aspect of the Department's workforce, turning AI into a daily operational asset. This announcement marks another milestone in America's AI revolution, and the War Department is driving that momentum forward,” it added.

This marks another key announcement of Musk’s role in the Trump administration. The billionaire has earlier led the Department of Government Efficiency, aimed at scaling down and cutting federal spending.

Grok in Pentagon? Department of War announces partnership with Elon Musk’s xAI

Russia is reportedly developing "orbiting clouds of shrapnel" to target Elon Musk’s Starlink constellation to damage Ukraine's prospects on the battlefield. Two NATO-nation intelligence services suspect Moscow could be building a new anti-satellite weapon to hit Starlink internet services. The Associated Press reported that the intelligence findings show that Russia is working on what is being called a “zone-effect” weapon. This involves flooding Starlink orbits with hundreds of thousands of high-density pellets to disable multiple satellites at once. According to the findings, Russia sees Starlink’s high-speed internet service as a grave threat to its ambitions in Ukraine. Battlefield communications, weapons targeting and several other areas in Ukraine depend on Starlink satellites amid the ongoing war with Russia.<h2>China and Russia have thousands of active satellites&nbsp;</h2>However, this attack would not just take out Starlink satellites, but other orbiting systems would also be affected, triggering a catastrophe in space. If Russia deploys such a weapon, it risks damaging its own fleet of satellites, besides China's, experts say. Notably, both countries have a fleet of thousands of orbiting satellites that they use for communications, defence and other purposes. Chaos in Earth's orbit would take down their satellites as well, which means Russia might not go ahead with this plan, according to analysts. &nbsp;Victoria Samson, a space-security specialist at the Secure World Foundation, said, “I would be very surprised, frankly, if they were to do something like that.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/starlink-chinese-rocket-near-collision-low-earth-orbit-1765880896941">Space X satellite and Chinese rocket had a disturbing close encounter as Earth's orbit gets overcrowded</a><h2>Would Russia risk damaging its own satellites?</h2>However, others think something like this is possible since Russia has been "pursuing an indiscriminate nuclear, space-based weapon", as alleged by the US in the past. Canadian military’s Space Division, Brig. Gen. Christopher Horner said, “I can’t say I’ve been briefed on that type of system. But it’s not implausible." He added that if what the US says about Moscow's ambitions of having a nuclear weapons system is accurate, then it wouldn’t be shocking if "something just short of that, but equally damaging" is developed and placed in space.&nbsp;Notably, Russian President Vladimir Putin has clarified in the past that his country has no intention of deploying nuclear space weapons. It had also called on the United Nations to push and stop the orbital deployment of such weapons. Meanwhile, AP stated that it wasn't able to verify the findings. Neither Russia nor the US Space Force comment on the matter.The French military’s Space Command told the publication, "We can inform you that Russia has, in recent years, been multiplying irresponsible, dangerous, and even hostile actions in space", but did not comment on the particular alleged deployment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Is Russia planning to sabotage Starlink satellites? According to intelligence findings by two NATO nations, Moscow could deploy a weapon capable of disabling multiple satellites. This would be done to hit Ukraine's communications during the ongoing war. 

Russia is reportedly developing "orbiting clouds of shrapnel" to target Elon Musk’s Starlink constellation to damage Ukraine's prospects on the battlefield. Two NATO-nation intelligence services suspect Moscow could be building a new anti-satellite weapon to hit Starlink internet services. The Associated Press reported that the intelligence findings show that Russia is working on what is being called a “zone-effect” weapon. This involves flooding Starlink orbits with hundreds of thousands of high-density pellets to disable multiple satellites at once. According to the findings, Russia sees Starlink’s high-speed internet service as a grave threat to its ambitions in Ukraine. Battlefield communications, weapons targeting and several other areas in Ukraine depend on Starlink satellites amid the ongoing war with Russia. China and Russia have thousands of active satellites However, this attack would not just take out Starlink satellites, but other orbiting systems would also be affected, triggering a catastrophe in space. If Russia deploys such a weapon, it risks damaging its own fleet of satellites, besides China's, experts say. Notably, both countries have a fleet of thousands of orbiting satellites that they use for communications, defence and other purposes. Chaos in Earth's orbit would take down their satellites as well, which means Russia might not go ahead with this plan, according to analysts. Victoria Samson, a space-security specialist at the Secure World Foundation, said, “I would be very surprised, frankly, if they were to do something like that.” Also Read: Space X satellite and Chinese rocket had a disturbing close encounter as Earth's orbit gets overcrowded Would Russia risk damaging its own satellites? However, others think something like this is possible since Russia has been "pursuing an indiscriminate nuclear, space-based weapon", as alleged by the US in the past. Canadian military’s Space Division, Brig. Gen. Christopher Horner said, “I can’t say I’ve been briefed on that type of system. But it’s not implausible." He added that if what the US says about Moscow's ambitions of having a nuclear weapons system is accurate, then it wouldn’t be shocking if "something just short of that, but equally damaging" is developed and placed in space. Notably, Russian President Vladimir Putin has clarified in the past that his country has no intention of deploying nuclear space weapons. It had also called on the United Nations to push and stop the orbital deployment of such weapons. Meanwhile, AP stated that it wasn't able to verify the findings. Neither Russia nor the US Space Force comment on the matter. The French military’s Space Command told the publication, "We can inform you that Russia has, in recent years, been multiplying irresponsible, dangerous, and even hostile actions in space", but did not comment on the particular alleged deployment.

Is Russia planning to sabotage Starlink satellites? According to intelligence findings by two NATO nations, Moscow could deploy a weapon capable of disabling multiple satellites. This would be done to hit Ukraine's communications during the ongoing war.&nbsp;

Russia planning 'clouds of shrapnel' in space to take down Starlink satellites, two NATO nations claim

The US military conducted yet another strike on an alleged drug vessel operated by “Designated Terrorist Organisations” in the Eastern Pacific and killed one. The US military, in a statement, said that the lethal kinetic strike was done on the orders of Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. In a post on X, SOUTHCOM confirmed that one male narco-terrorist was confirmed killed during this action. It added that no US service members were harmed in the strike. The strikes are a part of Trump administration's continued attack on drug cartels operating in Venezuela, even as it faces criticism of killing survivors in additional strikes earlier this year.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">On Dec. 22, at the direction of <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecWar</a> Pete Hegseth, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a low-profile vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations in international waters. Intelligence confirmed the low-profile vessel was transiting… <a href="https://t.co/LGzEaQSTiR">pic.twitter.com/LGzEaQSTiR</a>&mdash; U.S. Southern Command (@Southcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/Southcom/status/2003303616963133694?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

A day ago, Trump suggested that it would be "smart" for Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to step down. He also suggested that the United States could keep and maybe even sell the oil it had seized off the coast of Venezuela in recent weeks, adding that America would also keep the seized ships. Maduro slammed Trump for his suggestion and urged the US president to focus on the problems plaguing his country. "He would be better off in his own country on economic and social issues, and he would be better off in the world if he took care of his country's affairs," said Maduro.&nbsp;The death toll amid US President Donald Trump’s campaign against drug trafficking has risen to over 100 with the recent strike. According to an AFP tally, 104 people have been killed in US strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean since September. This comes even as the Trump administration has provided no evidence about the alleged drug boats, with critics questioning the legality of US military operations in international waters. Trump has maintained that he does not need congressional approval to order military strikes on Venezuelan soil. When asked directly whether lawmakers would be consulted before authorising land hits on drug cartels, Trump said he “wouldn’t mind” informing them but insisted it was “not a big deal”. He also suggested that briefing Congress could compromise operations, saying politicians “leak like a sieve.”

The US military carried out another strike on an alleged drug vessel linked to terrorist groups in the Eastern Pacific, killing one. Part of Trump’s anti-drug campaign, the action has pushed the death toll past 100, amid criticism over legality and lack of evidence.

The US military conducted yet another strike on an alleged drug vessel operated by “Designated Terrorist Organisations” in the Eastern Pacific and killed one. The US military, in a statement, said that the lethal kinetic strike was done on the orders of Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. In a post on X, SOUTHCOM confirmed that one male narco-terrorist was confirmed killed during this action. It added that no US service members were harmed in the strike. The strikes are a part of Trump administration's continued attack on drug cartels operating in Venezuela, even as it faces criticism of killing survivors in additional strikes earlier this year.

The US military carried out another strike on an alleged drug vessel linked to terrorist groups in the Eastern Pacific, killing one. Part of Trump’s anti-drug campaign, the action has pushed the death toll past 100, amid criticism over legality and lack of evidence.

US strikes 'low profile' vessel in eastern Pacific, kills 1; trail of fire visible caught on cam - Video

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US strikes 'low profile' vessel in eastern Pacific, 1 narco-terrorist killed