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The Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC) in Bangladesh's Chittagong has suspended its operation on Sunday (Dec 21), citing security concerns amid ongoing unrest in the country after student leader Osman Hadi's death. The IVAC announced on its website, saying that, due to the recent security situation at the Assistant High Commission of India (AHCI) in Chittagong, the visa operations will remain suspended until further notice. “Due to the recent security incident at AHCI Chattogram, Indian visa operations at IVAC Chattogram will remain suspended until further notice,” the statement said, adding, “The announcement for reopening the visa centre will be made after reviewing the situation.” The announcement follows overnight protests near the Assistant High Commission office in Upashahar area and the visa application centre in Shobhanight in Bangladesh. At least four people, including a member of the police, were injured after officers dispersed students and local residents protesting outside the mission on Friday against the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yunus-govt-condemns-lynching-of-hindu-man-says-violence-has-no-place-1766143705105">Yunus government condemns lynching of Hindu man, says violence has no place in New Bangladesh</a>&nbsp;Bangladesh is up in flames after the death of Political activist Sharif Osman Hadi on Thursday, after he was shot at by unidentified men last Friday (Dec 12), triggering a wave of violent protests across Bangladesh by Inqilab Moncho supporters.&nbsp;Protesters went on a rampage during the unrest, ransacking the offices of leading newspapers such as The Daily Star, Prothom Alo and New Age, setting parts of the buildings on fire and disrupting printing operations. Demonstrators also torched or damaged other sites, including the historic cultural centre Chhayanaut and remnants of key political buildings, while in Rajshahi, crowds used heavy machinery, including a bulldozer, to demolish an Awami League party office.&nbsp;Amid the violence, a Hindu garment worker was beaten to death after being accused of blasphemy, deepening concerns over communal tensions.This wave of violence follows prolonged political instability since 2024, including major nationwide protests over governance issues that led to the collapse of the Awami League government and ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. &nbsp;

Bangladesh is witnessing violent protests across several cities, particularly in Dhaka, following the death of student leader Osman Hadi. Indian diplomatic missions in the country have also become targets of protesters, who held demonstrations outside consulates.

The Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC) in Bangladesh's Chittagong has suspended its operation on Sunday (Dec 21), citing security concerns amid ongoing unrest in the country after student leader Osman Hadi's death. The IVAC announced on its website, saying that, due to the recent security situation at the Assistant High Commission of India (AHCI) in Chittagong, the visa operations will remain suspended until further notice. “Due to the recent security incident at AHCI Chattogram, Indian visa operations at IVAC Chattogram will remain suspended until further notice,” the statement said, adding, “The announcement for reopening the visa centre will be made after reviewing the situation.” The announcement follows overnight protests near the Assistant High Commission office in Upashahar area and the visa application centre in Shobhanight in Bangladesh. At least four people, including a member of the police, were injured after officers dispersed students and local residents protesting outside the mission on Friday against the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi. Also Read: Yunus government condemns lynching of Hindu man, says violence has no place in New Bangladesh Bangladesh is up in flames after the death of Political activist Sharif Osman Hadi on Thursday, after he was shot at by unidentified men last Friday (Dec 12), triggering a wave of violent protests across Bangladesh by Inqilab Moncho supporters. Protesters went on a rampage during the unrest, ransacking the offices of leading newspapers such as The Daily Star, Prothom Alo and New Age, setting parts of the buildings on fire and disrupting printing operations. Demonstrators also torched or damaged other sites, including the historic cultural centre Chhayanaut and remnants of key political buildings, while in Rajshahi, crowds used heavy machinery, including a bulldozer, to demolish an Awami League party office. Amid the violence, a Hindu garment worker was beaten to death after being accused of blasphemy, deepening concerns over communal tensions. This wave of violence follows prolonged political instability since 2024, including major nationwide protests over governance issues that led to the collapse of the Awami League government and ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Bangladesh is witnessing violent protests across several cities, particularly in Dhaka, following the death of student leader Osman Hadi. Indian diplomatic missions in the country have also become targets of protesters, who held demonstrations outside consulates.

Indian visa centre in Bangladesh's Chittagong suspends operations amid unrest

Australians marked one week since the deadly Bondi Beach shooting with a nationwide minute of silence and candlelight vigils. The attack on a Hanukkah gathering killed 15 people and injured over 40, prompting mourning, global condemnation and renewed calls for tougher gun laws.

Moment of silence, flickering candles: Australians mark one week since deadly Bondi Beach shooting

A day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the US has offered a potential new format for peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, with American and possibly European envoys also participating in the negotiations, Kremlin on Sunday denied that three-way talks between Ukraine, Russia and the United States were on the cards.&nbsp;"At present, no one has seriously discussed this initiative, and to my knowledge, it is not in preparation," said Russian President Vladimir Putin's foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov, as reported by news agency AFP.<h2>Diplomats gather in Miami</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Russian, Ukrainian and US diplomats have gathered in Miami for talks on ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict.&nbsp;The talks are being mediated by US envoy Steve Witkoff and President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.&nbsp;Ukraine and Russia have not held any face-to-face negotiations since July, but the US has intensified its efforts to end the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;Ukrainian and European representatives held discussions with American counterparts in the US on Friday and agreed to resume contact soon, Umerov said.&nbsp;Trump’s envoys have been pushing a plan under which the United States would offer security guarantees to Ukraine, while Kyiv could be expected to make territorial concessions—a condition that has triggered deep resentment among many Ukrainians.&nbsp;The presence of Russian and European officials in Miami marks a shift from earlier rounds, when the US held separate talks with each side in different locations.&nbsp;&nbsp;Moscow has repeatedly argued that European involvement would hinder negotiations, often portraying EU leaders as pro-war.

Ukraine and Russia have not held any face-to-face negotiations since July, but the US has intensified its efforts to end the war in Ukraine.

A day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the US has offered a potential new format for peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, with American and possibly European envoys also participating in the negotiations, Kremlin on Sunday denied that three-way talks between Ukraine, Russia and the United States were on the cards. "At present, no one has seriously discussed this initiative, and to my knowledge, it is not in preparation," said Russian President Vladimir Putin's foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov, as reported by news agency AFP. Diplomats gather in Miami Meanwhile, Russian, Ukrainian and US diplomats have gathered in Miami for talks on ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The talks are being mediated by US envoy Steve Witkoff and President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner. Ukraine and Russia have not held any face-to-face negotiations since July, but the US has intensified its efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Ukrainian and European representatives held discussions with American counterparts in the US on Friday and agreed to resume contact soon, Umerov said. Trump’s envoys have been pushing a plan under which the United States would offer security guarantees to Ukraine, while Kyiv could be expected to make territorial concessions—a condition that has triggered deep resentment among many Ukrainians. The presence of Russian and European officials in Miami marks a shift from earlier rounds, when the US held separate talks with each side in different locations. Moscow has repeatedly argued that European involvement would hinder negotiations, often portraying EU leaders as pro-war.

Ukraine and Russia have not held any face-to-face negotiations since July, but the US has intensified its efforts to end the war in Ukraine.

Kremlin denies Zelensky's claim of possible three-way US-Ukraine-Russia talks in ending conflict

A power outage in San Francisco disrupted Waymo's operation after a widespread blackout caused the company's self-driving vehicles to stop, leading to traffic issues in several parts of the city. However, no injuries were reported in the incident, and Waymo has yet to announce when its services will be fully restored.&nbsp;A video surfaced on social media shows autonomous vehicles stopped in roadways as traffic congestion grew around them. It showed that several white Waymo Jaguar I-PACE autonomous cars lined up bumper-to-bumper and were completely motionless.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">NEW: Self driving Waymo cars get confused in a San Francisco intersection during a power outage. A whopping 130,000 customers in San Francisco were left without power, according to local reports. Over 30% of the city is still without power at this time. There is no estimated… <a href="https://t.co/NQSBUE4U8j">pic.twitter.com/NQSBUE4U8j</a>&mdash; Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) <a href="https://twitter.com/CollinRugg/status/2002577250793947527?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The vehicles seemed unsure how to move forward, behaving as though they were waiting for traffic lights that were no longer operational. The confusion persisted, with car horns blaring at the stalled cars. City authorities and utility teams are continuing efforts to restore power after a substation fire that knocked out power across wide areas.&nbsp;The San Francisco Department of Emergency Management said in a post on social media platform X that the outage caused “significant transit disruptions” across the city. Residents were directed to avoid unnecessary travel and treat non-functioning traffic signals as four-way stops to avoid accidents.<h3>PG&amp;E confirmed the power grid had been stabilised</h3>Meanwhile, the news agency Associated Press reported that the outage began early in the afternoon, hitting northern neighbourhoods such as Richmond, Presidio and areas surrounding Golden Gate Park. As the day wore on, the blackout spread, plunging large sections of the city into darkness.&nbsp;However, PG&amp;E later said the power grid had been stabilised and that no further outages were expected. However, the utility said it could not immediately say when full power would be restored, even as more than 30 per cent of the city was without electricity at one stage.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-pm-albanese-orders-review-of-security-agencies-police-after-bondi-attack-1766301185988">Australian PM Albanese orders review of security agencies, police after Bondi attack</a>

The San Francisco Department of Emergency Management said in a post on social media platform X that the outage caused “significant transit disruptions” across the city. Residents were directed to avoid unnecessary travel.

A power outage in San Francisco disrupted Waymo's operation after a widespread blackout caused the company's self-driving vehicles to stop, leading to traffic issues in several parts of the city. However, no injuries were reported in the incident, and Waymo has yet to announce when its services will be fully restored. A video surfaced on social media shows autonomous vehicles stopped in roadways as traffic congestion grew around them. It showed that several white Waymo Jaguar I-PACE autonomous cars lined up bumper-to-bumper and were completely motionless.

The San Francisco Department of Emergency Management said in a post on social media platform X that the outage caused “significant transit disruptions” across the city. Residents were directed to avoid unnecessary travel.

San Francisco power outage brings Waymo self-driving cars to halt, triggers traffic chaos — VIDEO

US intelligence director Tulsi Gabbard has blasted critics of President Donald Trump for undermining his "efforts to end this bloody war that has resulted in more than a million casualties on both sides." She acccused them of blocking "President Trump’s peace effort, and fomenting hysteria and fear among the people to get them to support the escalation of war".&nbsp;"Dangerously, you are promoting this false narrative to block President Trump’s peace effort, and fomenting hysteria and fear among the people to get them to support the escalation of war, which is what NATO and the EU really want in order to pull the United States military directly into war with Russia," Wrote Gabbar on X.&nbsp;"The truth is the US intelligence community has briefed policymakers, including the Democrat HPSCI member quoted by Reuters, that US Intelligence assesses that Russia seeks to avoid a larger war with NATO. It also assesses that, as the last few years have shown, Russia’s battlefield performance indicates it does not currently have the capability to conquer and occupy all of Ukraine, let alone Europe," she added.<h2>Russia-Ukraine war</h2>Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that the US has offered a potential new format for peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, with American and possibly European envoys also participating in the negotiations.&nbsp;Zelensky said Kyiv will take a decision on the format once it is clear if the ongoing bilateral discussions with the US negotiators that resumed on Friday are positive, adding that he would take up the matter with Rustem Umerov, the chief of Ukraine’s delegation.&nbsp;Zelensky did not share the specifics about what kind of format had been proposed by the Trump administration.&nbsp;“The US said they would have a separate meeting with representatives of Russia. And they proposed the following format, as far as I understand: Ukraine, America, Russia, and, since there are representatives of Europe there, probably Europe as well,” Zelensky said. &nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that the US has offered a potential new format for peace talks between Ukraine and Russia.

US intelligence director Tulsi Gabbard has blasted critics of President Donald Trump for undermining his "efforts to end this bloody war that has resulted in more than a million casualties on both sides." She acccused them of blocking "President Trump’s peace effort, and fomenting hysteria and fear among the people to get them to support the escalation of war". "Dangerously, you are promoting this false narrative to block President Trump’s peace effort, and fomenting hysteria and fear among the people to get them to support the escalation of war, which is what NATO and the EU really want in order to pull the United States military directly into war with Russia," Wrote Gabbar on X. "The truth is the US intelligence community has briefed policymakers, including the Democrat HPSCI member quoted by Reuters, that US Intelligence assesses that Russia seeks to avoid a larger war with NATO. It also assesses that, as the last few years have shown, Russia’s battlefield performance indicates it does not currently have the capability to conquer and occupy all of Ukraine, let alone Europe," she added. Russia-Ukraine war Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that the US has offered a potential new format for peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, with American and possibly European envoys also participating in the negotiations. Zelensky said Kyiv will take a decision on the format once it is clear if the ongoing bilateral discussions with the US negotiators that resumed on Friday are positive, adding that he would take up the matter with Rustem Umerov, the chief of Ukraine’s delegation. Zelensky did not share the specifics about what kind of format had been proposed by the Trump administration. “The US said they would have a separate meeting with representatives of Russia. And they proposed the following format, as far as I understand: Ukraine, America, Russia, and, since there are representatives of Europe there, probably Europe as well,” Zelensky said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that the US has offered a potential new format for peace talks between Ukraine and Russia.

Tulsi Gabbard slams critics of Trump, accuses them of blocking peace effort in ending wars

Democrats on Saturday (Dec 20) accused the Trump administration of a cover-up after at least 16 files linked to sex offender Jeffrey Epstein were removed from the Department of Justice website, which were earlier released in public less than 24 hours before. Democrats on the House Oversight Committee accused the DOJ of deleting the previously available file, including a photo of a drawer that contained documents and images, one of which had US Preesident Donald Trump. The removals were made without any explanation from the government or public notice, raising fresh questions about transparency surrounding the handling of Epstein-related records.&nbsp;“This is a White House Cover-Up,” Oversight Dems wrote in a post on X. In an earlier post, they posted the image while questioning the administration over the transparency in the case.&nbsp;“This photo, file 468, from the Epstein files that includes Donald Trump has apparently now been removed from the DOJ release,” the post read. “@AGPamBondi is this true? What else is being covered up? We need transparency for the American public.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This photo, file 468, from the Epstein files that includes Donald Trump has apparently now been removed from the DOJ release.<a href="https://twitter.com/AGPamBondi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AGPamBondi</a> is this true? What else is being covered up? We need transparency for the American public. <a href="https://t.co/3wYZAl2dse">pic.twitter.com/3wYZAl2dse</a>&mdash; Oversight Dems (@OversightDems) <a href="https://twitter.com/OversightDems/status/2002430296172745079?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The US Justice Department on Friday (Dec 20) started releasing a long-promised set of records linked to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. However, the documents were heavily redacted, raising questions about the transparency of the documents released. The files and images released by the DOJ had several mentions of former Democratic president Bill Clinton, with minimal references to US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;While the Justice Department did not provide any clarification on the missing files, it said in a post on X that “photos and other materials will continue being reviewed and redacted consistent with the law in an abundance of caution as we receive additional information.”&nbsp;After the release of the files, Democrats accused the Trump administration and the DOJ of violating the federal law that mandates public release of the documents relating to the investigation into convicted financier Jeffrey Epstein.&nbsp;Oversight Ranking Member Robert Garcia and Judiciary Ranking Member Jamie Raskin, in a joint statement, said, “Donald Trump and the Department of Justice are now violating federal law as they continue covering up the facts and the evidence about Jeffrey Epstein’s decades-long, billion-dollar, international sex trafficking ring. For months, Pam Bondi has denied survivors the transparency and accountability they have demanded and deserve and has defied the Oversight Committee’s subpoena. The Department of Justice is now making clear it intends to defy Congress itself, even as it gives star treatment to Epstein’s convicted co-conspirator, Ghislaine Maxwell.”&nbsp;The statement added, “Courts around the country have repeatedly intervened when this Administration has broken the law. We are now examining all legal options in the face of this violation of federal law. The survivors of this nightmare deserve justice, the co-conspirators must be held accountable, and the American people deserve complete transparency from DOJ.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Joint statement by Oversight Ranking Member Robert Garcia and Judiciary Ranking Member Jamie Raskin on Trump Administration decision to defy Epstein Files Transparency Act. <a href="https://t.co/CRw7RWU3gT">pic.twitter.com/CRw7RWU3gT</a>&mdash; Oversight Dems (@OversightDems) <a href="https://twitter.com/OversightDems/status/2002066483913076773?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Democrats accused the Trump administration of a cover-up after at least 16 Epstein-related files were removed from the DOJ website hours after release. The unexplained deletions, including a photo mentioning Trump, raised transparency and legal concerns.

Democrats on Saturday (Dec 20) accused the Trump administration of a cover-up after at least 16 files linked to sex offender Jeffrey Epstein were removed from the Department of Justice website, which were earlier released in public less than 24 hours before. Democrats on the House Oversight Committee accused the DOJ of deleting the previously available file, including a photo of a drawer that contained documents and images, one of which had US Preesident Donald Trump. The removals were made without any explanation from the government or public notice, raising fresh questions about transparency surrounding the handling of Epstein-related records. “This is a White House Cover-Up,” Oversight Dems wrote in a post on X. In an earlier post, they posted the image while questioning the administration over the transparency in the case. “This photo, file 468, from the Epstein files that includes Donald Trump has apparently now been removed from the DOJ release,” the post read. “@AGPamBondi is this true? What else is being covered up? We need transparency for the American public.”

Democrats accused the Trump administration of a cover-up after at least 16 Epstein-related files were removed from the DOJ website hours after release. The unexplained deletions, including a photo mentioning Trump, raised transparency and legal concerns.

‘This is a White House cover-up’: Democrats decry after 16 Epstein files, including Trump’s photo, removed from DOJ website

The Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese, has announced a sweeping review of intelligence and law enforcement procedures in the lead-up to the Bondi Beach attack. The development aimed at assessing whether agencies possess adequate powers to keep the public safe.&nbsp;As calls intensify for a Commonwealth royal commission into the killing of 15 people at a Hanukah event last Sunday, the Australian PM stated that the review would be led by former Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (Asio) boss Dennis Richardson, according to a report by the Guardian.&nbsp;The four-month inquiry will assess whether federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies possess the necessary powers, structures, processes, and information-sharing mechanisms to ensure public safety. Albanese said on Sunday that the Bondi attack “reinforces the rapidly changing security environment in our nation." “Our security agencies must be in the best position to respond," he added.&nbsp;Former treasurer Josh Frydenberg, among Albanese’s most vocal critics since the shooting, dismissed the move as “wholly inadequate” and accused the prime minister of shying away from ordering a royal commission. “To use an Australian colloquialism, it’s bullshit,” he said.&nbsp;Frydenberg further argued that the departmental review would fail to address the core problems, including what he described as growing radicalisation in the country that had been allowed to escalate under the government’s watch.&nbsp;ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess said the agency would fully cooperate with the review, adding that he had already launched an internal examination of its decision-making processes.&nbsp;“If Asio is found to have made mistakes, we will own them, and we will learn from them. Tragically, in this case we did not know about the attack before it happened. That is a matter of grave regret for me and my officers. It weighs on us heavily. But that does not necessarily mean there was an intelligence failure or that my officers made mistakes.”

The four-month inquiry will assess whether federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies possess the necessary powers, structures, processes, and information-sharing mechanisms to ensure public safety.

The Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese, has announced a sweeping review of intelligence and law enforcement procedures in the lead-up to the Bondi Beach attack. The development aimed at assessing whether agencies possess adequate powers to keep the public safe. As calls intensify for a Commonwealth royal commission into the killing of 15 people at a Hanukah event last Sunday, the Australian PM stated that the review would be led by former Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (Asio) boss Dennis Richardson, according to a report by the Guardian. The four-month inquiry will assess whether federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies possess the necessary powers, structures, processes, and information-sharing mechanisms to ensure public safety. Albanese said on Sunday that the Bondi attack “reinforces the rapidly changing security environment in our nation." “Our security agencies must be in the best position to respond," he added. Former treasurer Josh Frydenberg, among Albanese’s most vocal critics since the shooting, dismissed the move as “wholly inadequate” and accused the prime minister of shying away from ordering a royal commission. “To use an Australian colloquialism, it’s bullshit,” he said. Frydenberg further argued that the departmental review would fail to address the core problems, including what he described as growing radicalisation in the country that had been allowed to escalate under the government’s watch. ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess said the agency would fully cooperate with the review, adding that he had already launched an internal examination of its decision-making processes. “If Asio is found to have made mistakes, we will own them, and we will learn from them. Tragically, in this case we did not know about the attack before it happened. That is a matter of grave regret for me and my officers. It weighs on us heavily. But that does not necessarily mean there was an intelligence failure or that my officers made mistakes.”

The four-month inquiry will assess whether federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies possess the necessary powers, structures, processes, and information-sharing mechanisms to ensure public safety.

Australian PM Albanese orders review of security agencies, police after Bondi attack

Venezuela on Saturday (Dec 20) slammed the seizure of an oil tanker by the US as “theft and kidnapping”. This comes after the United States forces earlier “apprehended” an oil tanker off Venezuela, as announced by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. The incident marks the second in two weeks that US forces have intercepted a tanker in the region. Earlier, US President Donald Trump announced a blockade of “sanctioned oil vessels” heading to and leaving Venezuela.“These acts will not go unpunished,” Vice President Delcy Rodriguez said in a statement published on social media, adding that “those responsible for these serious events will answer to justice and to history for their criminal conduct.”Announcing the military action, Noem posted footage from the operation on social media. She added that the US Coast Guard, along with the support of the Department of War, seized the oil tanker that was last docked in Venezuela. She further alleged that the “illicit movement of sanctioned oil” is used to fund narco terrorism in the region.“In a pre-dawn action early this morning on Dec. 20, the US Coast Guard with the support of the Department of War apprehended an oil tanker that was last docked in Venezuela,” she wrote. “The United States will continue to pursue the illicit movement of sanctioned oil that is used to fund narco terrorism in the region. We will find you, and we will stop you.”Amid the mounting tensions between the two nations, Trump has said that he does not rule out the possibility of a war with Venezuela. On Thursday (Dec 18), the US president said that he does not need congressional approval to order military strikes on Venezuelan soil. His remarks have sparked concerns about the legality of the campaign in international waters. Under the US Constitution, the president serves as commander-in-chief of the armed forces, but Congress holds the exclusive authority to formally declare war.

Venezuela condemned the US seizure of an oil tanker as “theft and kidnapping,” warning it would not go unpunished. The move follows Trump’s blockade of sanctioned vessels and rising tensions, with concerns over legality and potential conflict.

Venezuela on Saturday (Dec 20) slammed the seizure of an oil tanker by the US as “theft and kidnapping”. This comes after the United States forces earlier “apprehended” an oil tanker off Venezuela, as announced by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. The incident marks the second in two weeks that US forces have intercepted a tanker in the region. Earlier, US President Donald Trump announced a blockade of “sanctioned oil vessels” heading to and leaving Venezuela. “These acts will not go unpunished,” Vice President Delcy Rodriguez said in a statement published on social media, adding that “those responsible for these serious events will answer to justice and to history for their criminal conduct.” Announcing the military action, Noem posted footage from the operation on social media. She added that the US Coast Guard, along with the support of the Department of War, seized the oil tanker that was last docked in Venezuela. She further alleged that the “illicit movement of sanctioned oil” is used to fund narco terrorism in the region. “In a pre-dawn action early this morning on Dec. 20, the US Coast Guard with the support of the Department of War apprehended an oil tanker that was last docked in Venezuela,” she wrote. “The United States will continue to pursue the illicit movement of sanctioned oil that is used to fund narco terrorism in the region. We will find you, and we will stop you.” Amid the mounting tensions between the two nations, Trump has said that he does not rule out the possibility of a war with Venezuela. On Thursday (Dec 18), the US president said that he does not need congressional approval to order military strikes on Venezuelan soil. His remarks have sparked concerns about the legality of the campaign in international waters. Under the US Constitution, the president serves as commander-in-chief of the armed forces, but Congress holds the exclusive authority to formally declare war.

Venezuela condemned the US seizure of an oil tanker as “theft and kidnapping,” warning it would not go unpunished. The move follows Trump’s blockade of sanctioned vessels and rising tensions, with concerns over legality and potential conflict.

‘These acts will not go unpunished’: Venezuela warns after US seizes oil tanker over ‘illicit movement’

Thousands turned up for funeral of slain youth leader Osman Hadi in Dhaka amid tight security on Saturday. The funeral was also attended by the interim government’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, his advisory council members, and Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman. Hadi’s elder brother Abu Bakar conducted the janaza, after which the body was taken to Dhaka University campus for burial. The grave was dug overnight beside the mausoleum of Bangladesh’s national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam.&nbsp;Sharif Osman Hadi, 32, a key figure in last year's student-led uprising that toppled longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and spokesperson of the Anti-Sheikh Hasina Inqilab Mancha was shot in the head by masked assailants in Dhaka last week while launching his campaign for the scheduled February general election.<h2>Who is Hadi's alleged shooter?</h2>&nbsp;So, who is Faisal Karim Masud the alleged shooter? Masud was a leader of the Chhatra League (currently banned), the student wing of the ousted Awami League, according to The Telegraph.&nbsp;Masud participated in Hadi’s election campaign along with another suspect, identified as motorcycle rider Alamgir, before carrying out the attack, reported the media house, citing a local journalist.&nbsp;The Pakistani police had arrested Masud about a year ago in connection with an armed robbery at a school. A &nbsp;foreign-made pistol was also recovered from him.&nbsp;Notably before carrying out the attack, Masud had told his girlfriend that something was going to happen that would "shake entire Bangladesh". Hours later, Faisal, along with two other people, shot Hadi in broad daylight in Dhaka.&nbsp;"It would be something that would shake the entire country," Faisal told Maria, reported Dhaka-based Jamuna Television. "Something will happen tomorrow (on Friday), that the whole country will tremble," newspaper Daily Jugantor quoted Faisal as saying.&nbsp;Faisal is married to a woman named Saheda Parvin Samia, who has been arrested along with other family members.&nbsp;

Sharif Osman Hadi, 32, a vital name in last years student-led uprising that toppled longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and spokesperson of the Anti-Sheikh Hasina Inqilab Mancha was shot in the head.

Thousands turned up for funeral of slain youth leader Osman Hadi in Dhaka amid tight security on Saturday. The funeral was also attended by the interim government’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, his advisory council members, and Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman. Hadi’s elder brother Abu Bakar conducted the janaza, after which the body was taken to Dhaka University campus for burial. The grave was dug overnight beside the mausoleum of Bangladesh’s national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. Sharif Osman Hadi, 32, a key figure in last year's student-led uprising that toppled longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and spokesperson of the Anti-Sheikh Hasina Inqilab Mancha was shot in the head by masked assailants in Dhaka last week while launching his campaign for the scheduled February general election. Who is Hadi's alleged shooter? So, who is Faisal Karim Masud the alleged shooter? Masud was a leader of the Chhatra League (currently banned), the student wing of the ousted Awami League, according to The Telegraph. Masud participated in Hadi’s election campaign along with another suspect, identified as motorcycle rider Alamgir, before carrying out the attack, reported the media house, citing a local journalist. The Pakistani police had arrested Masud about a year ago in connection with an armed robbery at a school. A foreign-made pistol was also recovered from him. Notably before carrying out the attack, Masud had told his girlfriend that something was going to happen that would "shake entire Bangladesh". Hours later, Faisal, along with two other people, shot Hadi in broad daylight in Dhaka. "It would be something that would shake the entire country," Faisal told Maria, reported Dhaka-based Jamuna Television. "Something will happen tomorrow (on Friday), that the whole country will tremble," newspaper Daily Jugantor quoted Faisal as saying. Faisal is married to a woman named Saheda Parvin Samia, who has been arrested along with other family members.

Sharif Osman Hadi, 32, a vital name in last year's student-led uprising that toppled longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and spokesperson of the Anti-Sheikh Hasina Inqilab Mancha was shot in the head.

Bangladesh student leader murder: Who is Faisal Karim Masud, the alleged shooter and man behind the political unrest?

At least nine people were killed, and several others were wounded after unknown gunmen opened fire at a bar outside South Africa’s Johannesburg, police said early Sunday (Dec 21). A dozen men attacked the tavern at Bekkersdal, in a gold mining area around 40 kilometres (25 miles) southwest of the city, just before 1:00 am local time. The incident is the second such in the country this month.&nbsp;In a statement, the police said that the attackers in two vehicles “opened fire at tavern patrons and continued to shoot randomly as they fled the scene.” A manhunt for the attackers has been launched.&nbsp;In an earlier statement, the police said that 10 people were killed, but later revised the toll to nine. The injured were taken to the hospital for treatment.&nbsp;Bekkersdal, where the shooting took place, is an impoverished region near some of the country’s major gold mines.&nbsp;South Africa, home to 63 million people, has significantly high crime rates, including one of the highest murder rates in the world. Shooting incidents are not uncommon in the nation, often fuelled by gang violence and business rivals.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier on December 6, gunmen stormed a hostel in Saulsville township near the capital, Pretoria. A dozen people were killed, including a three-year-old child. Police said that the shooting was at a site that was illegally selling alcohol.&nbsp;According to the police data, an average of 63 people were killed in the country each day between April and September.

South Africa, home to 63 million people, has significantly high crime rates, including one of the highest murder rates in the world. Shooting incidents are not uncommon in the nation, often fuelled by gang violence and business rivals. 

At least nine people were killed, and several others were wounded after unknown gunmen opened fire at a bar outside South Africa’s Johannesburg, police said early Sunday (Dec 21). A dozen men attacked the tavern at Bekkersdal, in a gold mining area around 40 kilometres (25 miles) southwest of the city, just before 1:00 am local time. The incident is the second such in the country this month. In a statement, the police said that the attackers in two vehicles “opened fire at tavern patrons and continued to shoot randomly as they fled the scene.” A manhunt for the attackers has been launched. In an earlier statement, the police said that 10 people were killed, but later revised the toll to nine. The injured were taken to the hospital for treatment. Bekkersdal, where the shooting took place, is an impoverished region near some of the country’s major gold mines. South Africa, home to 63 million people, has significantly high crime rates, including one of the highest murder rates in the world. Shooting incidents are not uncommon in the nation, often fuelled by gang violence and business rivals. Earlier on December 6, gunmen stormed a hostel in Saulsville township near the capital, Pretoria. A dozen people were killed, including a three-year-old child. Police said that the shooting was at a site that was illegally selling alcohol. According to the police data, an average of 63 people were killed in the country each day between April and September.

South Africa, home to 63 million people, has significantly high crime rates, including one of the highest murder rates in the world. Shooting incidents are not uncommon in the nation, often fuelled by gang violence and business rivals.&nbsp;

At least 9 killed, several wounded after mass shooting in South Africa’s Johannesburg – What we know

The United States on Saturday (Dec 20) “apprehended” an oil tanker off Venezuela, said Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. The move marks the second in two weeks that US forces have intercepted a tanker in the region. This comes after US President Donald Trump announced a blockade of “sanctioned oil vessels” heading to and leaving Venezuela. Meanwhile, Caracas has called the action a “theft and kidnapping,” as tensions rise between the two nations.&nbsp;Announcing the military action, Noem posted footage from the operation on social media. She added that the US Coast Guard, along with the support of the Department of War, seized the oil tanker that was last docked in Venezuela. She further alleged that the “illicit movement of sanctioned oil” is used to fund narco terrorism in the region.&nbsp;“In a pre-dawn action early this morning on Dec. 20, the US Coast Guard with the support of the Department of War apprehended an oil tanker that was last docked in Venezuela,” she wrote. “The United States will continue to pursue the illicit movement of sanctioned oil that is used to fund narco terrorism in the region. We will find you, and we will stop you.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">In a pre-dawn action early this morning on Dec. 20, the US Coast Guard with the support of the Department of War apprehended an oil tanker that was last docked in Venezuela. The United States will continue to pursue the illicit movement of sanctioned oil that is used to fund… <a href="https://t.co/nSZ4mi6axc">pic.twitter.com/nSZ4mi6axc</a>&mdash; Secretary Kristi Noem (@Sec_Noem) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sec_Noem/status/2002481990755627050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This comes as the US continues to expand its military presence in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean, carrying out strikes on alleged drug boats.&nbsp;Amid the mounting tensions between the two nations, Trump has said that he does not rule out the possibility of a war with Venezuela. On Thursday (Dec 18), the US president said that he does not need congressional approval to order military strikes on Venezuelan soil. His remarks have sparked concerns about the legality of the campaign in international waters. Under the US Constitution, the president serves as commander-in-chief of the armed forces, but Congress holds the exclusive authority to formally declare war.&nbsp;

This comes after US President Donald Trump announced a blockade of “sanctioned oil vessels” heading to and leaving Venezuela. 

The United States on Saturday (Dec 20) “apprehended” an oil tanker off Venezuela, said Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. The move marks the second in two weeks that US forces have intercepted a tanker in the region. This comes after US President Donald Trump announced a blockade of “sanctioned oil vessels” heading to and leaving Venezuela. Meanwhile, Caracas has called the action a “theft and kidnapping,” as tensions rise between the two nations. Announcing the military action, Noem posted footage from the operation on social media. She added that the US Coast Guard, along with the support of the Department of War, seized the oil tanker that was last docked in Venezuela. She further alleged that the “illicit movement of sanctioned oil” is used to fund narco terrorism in the region. “In a pre-dawn action early this morning on Dec. 20, the US Coast Guard with the support of the Department of War apprehended an oil tanker that was last docked in Venezuela,” she wrote. “The United States will continue to pursue the illicit movement of sanctioned oil that is used to fund narco terrorism in the region. We will find you, and we will stop you.”

This comes after US President Donald Trump announced a blockade of “sanctioned oil vessels” heading to and leaving Venezuela.&nbsp;

WATCH | US intercepts second oil tanker off Venezuela over ‘illicit movement’

At least 16 documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein, including a photograph showing US President Donald Trump, have disappeared from the US Justice Department’s public webpage less than 24 hours after their release. The removals were made without any explanation from the government or public notice, raising fresh questions about transparency surrounding the handling of Epstein-related records.&nbsp;&nbsp;The US Justice Department on Friday (Dec 20) started releasing a long-promised set of records linked to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. However, the documents were heavily redacted, raising questions about the transparency of the documents released. The files and images released by the DOJ had several mentions of former Democratic president Bill Clinton, with minimal references to US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;According to Associated Press, the missing files were initially available on Friday, but are no longer accessible now. The documents included images of paintings depicting nude women, and one showing a series of photographs along a credenza and in drawers. A photograph of Trump, alongside Melania Trump, Epstein and his longtime associate Ghislaine Maxwell was also seen.&nbsp;While the Justice Department did not provide any clarification on the missing files, it said in a post on X that “photos and other materials will continue being reviewed and redacted consistent with the law in an abundance of caution as we receive additional information.”&nbsp;In a post on X, Democrats on the House Oversight Committee pointed out the missing photographs.&nbsp;“This photo, file 468, from the Epstein files that includes Donald Trump has apparently now been removed from the DOJ release,” the post read. “@AGPamBondi is this true? What else is being covered up? We need transparency for the American public.”&nbsp;

In another post, the Oversight Dems said that move was a cover-up by the Trump administration. “This is a White House Cover-Up.”

The removals were made without any explanation from the government or public notice, raising fresh questions about transparency surrounding the handling of Epstein-related records.

At least 16 documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein, including a photograph showing US President Donald Trump, have disappeared from the US Justice Department’s public webpage less than 24 hours after their release. The removals were made without any explanation from the government or public notice, raising fresh questions about transparency surrounding the handling of Epstein-related records. The US Justice Department on Friday (Dec 20) started releasing a long-promised set of records linked to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. However, the documents were heavily redacted, raising questions about the transparency of the documents released. The files and images released by the DOJ had several mentions of former Democratic president Bill Clinton, with minimal references to US President Donald Trump. According to Associated Press, the missing files were initially available on Friday, but are no longer accessible now. The documents included images of paintings depicting nude women, and one showing a series of photographs along a credenza and in drawers. A photograph of Trump, alongside Melania Trump, Epstein and his longtime associate Ghislaine Maxwell was also seen. While the Justice Department did not provide any clarification on the missing files, it said in a post on X that “photos and other materials will continue being reviewed and redacted consistent with the law in an abundance of caution as we receive additional information.” In a post on X, Democrats on the House Oversight Committee pointed out the missing photographs. “This photo, file 468, from the Epstein files that includes Donald Trump has apparently now been removed from the DOJ release,” the post read. “@AGPamBondi is this true? What else is being covered up? We need transparency for the American public.”

The removals were made without any explanation from the government or public notice, raising fresh questions about transparency surrounding the handling of Epstein-related records.

Epstein files vanish: Trump photo among 16 documents removed from DOJ website

The Justice Department released more documents Saturday from the Jeffrey Epstein files, after an initial release on Friday included thousands of photos, police reports, and other material as the first records to come to light under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. They include court documents from past cases against Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. The court documents include the 2019 grand jury testimony, which outlines abuse by Jeffrey Epstein in New York and Florida.&nbsp;<h2>‘Epstein used his victims to recruit other young girls’</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;An FBI agent told a 2019 grand jury in New York that Epstein used his victims to recruit other young girls, testimony released on Saturday shows.In the testimony, the FBI agent said he interviewed multiple victims in New York and Florida, who told him that they would go to Epstein’s home to give him a massage and that “things progressed each additional time.”The agent further recalled what they learned about a 2005 police raid at Epstein’s West Palm Beach home. A massage table, phone messages, sex toys, and other things were found in the raid. In a room, they found message pads that included one note saying, “She has a female for Mr. JE,” and a date of birth.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-has-mooted-direct-ukraine-russia-talks-in-miami-for-ending-war-says-zelensky-1766250794855">US has mooted direct Ukraine-Russia talks in Miami for ending war, says Zelensky</a><h2>Maxwell’s role in Epstein’s abuse detailed in testimony</h2>&nbsp;An FBI agent who testified before a 2019 federal grand jury revealed Ghislane Maxwell’s role in Epstein’s abuse. “Ghislane Maxwell was like a cool older sister and made comments like, ‘This is what grownups do,’” a survivor of Epstein’s abuse told the agent.&nbsp;The agent also described interviews with three different women, who, as teenagers, were abused by Epstein. The women described Maxwell being either present or waiting just outside as Epstein sexually abused them in massage rooms at his residences in Palm Beach, New York, and New Mexico, as well as another location in London.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-s-ex-pm-imran-khan-wife-bushra-bibi-sentenced-to-17-years-in-toshakhana-case-after-trial-in-adiala-jail-1766229127874">Pakistan’s ex-PM Imran Khan, wife Bushra Bibi sentenced to 17 years in Toshakhana case after trial in Adiala Jail</a><h2>‘Epstein abused one 14-year-old girl’</h2>&nbsp;The FBI agent testified that, after the first time Epstein abused one 14-year-old girl, Maxwell called her and said, “In sum and substance, ‘Well, aren’t you a clever girl, Jeffrey was very impressed.’”She said that she “was flown all over the world” with Epstein for years. She also told the agent about an incident after she turned 18.She “said that Maxwell had shown her to a bedroom, and on the bed was a schoolgirl outfit.”“Maxwell said, ‘Well, I thought it would be adorable if you gave Jeffrey his tea in this,’” the agent said."So [she] felt like she had to put it on so she put it on, took Epstein his tea, and Epstein then slapped her on the buttocks and reached under the skirt and touched her.”Asked what the woman’s demeanor was like, recounting this during her witness interview, the agent replied, “She was crying; she was very upset.”The agent said a schoolgirl outfit was recovered from Epstein's New York mansion by law enforcement in 2019.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-yunus-trying-to-bring-islamists-to-power-via-rigged-poll-threat-to-india-is-real-hasina-s-son-sajeeb-wazed-1766140132399">‘Yunus trying to bring Islamists to power via rigged poll, threat to India is real’: Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed</a><h2>Handwritten notes show messages for Epstein, including missed call from Trump</h2>&nbsp;Over a dozen handwritten messages left for Epstein were also shown in what appears to be a 2019 grand jury presentation.&nbsp;Several similar messages for “Mr. JE” reference females being available or asking if they are, while two others focus on whether a female can work. Another message appears to be from a girl trying to talk to “JE” about college.&nbsp;&nbsp;Another message shows that now-President Donald Trump called Epstein. The call time is recorded as 5:18, but the message is not dated, and no reason is mentioned for the call.&nbsp;There were a total of 18 messages in the presentation. All callers were redacted except for the ones referencing Trump and one Darren.

In the testimony, the FBI agent said he interviewed multiple victims in New York and Florida, who told him that they would go to Epstein’s home to give him a massage and that “things progressed each additional time.”

The Justice Department released more documents Saturday from the Jeffrey Epstein files, after an initial release on Friday included thousands of photos, police reports, and other material as the first records to come to light under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. They include court documents from past cases against Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. The court documents include the 2019 grand jury testimony, which outlines abuse by Jeffrey Epstein in New York and Florida. ‘Epstein used his victims to recruit other young girls’ An FBI agent told a 2019 grand jury in New York that Epstein used his victims to recruit other young girls, testimony released on Saturday shows. In the testimony, the FBI agent said he interviewed multiple victims in New York and Florida, who told him that they would go to Epstein’s home to give him a massage and that “things progressed each additional time.” The agent further recalled what they learned about a 2005 police raid at Epstein’s West Palm Beach home. A massage table, phone messages, sex toys, and other things were found in the raid. In a room, they found message pads that included one note saying, “She has a female for Mr. JE,” and a date of birth. Also Read: US has mooted direct Ukraine-Russia talks in Miami for ending war, says Zelensky Maxwell’s role in Epstein’s abuse detailed in testimony An FBI agent who testified before a 2019 federal grand jury revealed Ghislane Maxwell’s role in Epstein’s abuse. “Ghislane Maxwell was like a cool older sister and made comments like, ‘This is what grownups do,’” a survivor of Epstein’s abuse told the agent. The agent also described interviews with three different women, who, as teenagers, were abused by Epstein. The women described Maxwell being either present or waiting just outside as Epstein sexually abused them in massage rooms at his residences in Palm Beach, New York, and New Mexico, as well as another location in London. Also Read: Pakistan’s ex-PM Imran Khan, wife Bushra Bibi sentenced to 17 years in Toshakhana case after trial in Adiala Jail ‘Epstein abused one 14-year-old girl’ The FBI agent testified that, after the first time Epstein abused one 14-year-old girl, Maxwell called her and said, “In sum and substance, ‘Well, aren’t you a clever girl, Jeffrey was very impressed.’” She said that she “was flown all over the world” with Epstein for years. She also told the agent about an incident after she turned 18. She “said that Maxwell had shown her to a bedroom, and on the bed was a schoolgirl outfit.” “Maxwell said, ‘Well, I thought it would be adorable if you gave Jeffrey his tea in this,’” the agent said. "So [she] felt like she had to put it on so she put it on, took Epstein his tea, and Epstein then slapped her on the buttocks and reached under the skirt and touched her.” Asked what the woman’s demeanor was like, recounting this during her witness interview, the agent replied, “She was crying; she was very upset.” The agent said a schoolgirl outfit was recovered from Epstein's New York mansion by law enforcement in 2019. Also Read: ‘Yunus trying to bring Islamists to power via rigged poll, threat to India is real’: Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed Handwritten notes show messages for Epstein, including missed call from Trump Over a dozen handwritten messages left for Epstein were also shown in what appears to be a 2019 grand jury presentation. Several similar messages for “Mr. JE” reference females being available or asking if they are, while two others focus on whether a female can work. Another message appears to be from a girl trying to talk to “JE” about college. Another message shows that now-President Donald Trump called Epstein. The call time is recorded as 5:18, but the message is not dated, and no reason is mentioned for the call. There were a total of 18 messages in the presentation. All callers were redacted except for the ones referencing Trump and one Darren.

In the testimony, the FBI agent said he interviewed multiple victims in New York and Florida, who told him that they would go to Epstein’s home to give him a massage and that “things progressed each additional time.”

Epstein files release: 2019 grand jury testimony outlines abuse by ‘JE’ in New York, Florida

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is set to visit Sri Lanka next week, a trip coming at a time when Delhi immediately reached out to its neighbour amid ongoing recovery from one of the country's worst natural disasters in decades. The visit follows India's swift and extensive humanitarian response to Cyclone Ditwah, which struck Sri Lanka on 27 November 2025, triggering catastrophic floods and landslides that have claimed over 500 lives and affected millions.&nbsp;India launched Operation Sagar Bandhu immediately after the cyclone made landfall, becoming the first nation to deploy specialised disaster responders. Within hours, Indian naval ships already in Colombo for a fleet review, including aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, handed over initial relief supplies.&nbsp;Over the ensuing days, India airlifted tonnes of essentials via Indian Air Force aircraft, including tents, blankets, hygiene kits, medicines and modular trauma units known as BHISHM Cubes. Elite National Disaster Response Force teams, equipped with search dogs, were deployed to hard-hit areas like Badulla and Gampaha, rescuing over 450 people from flooded homes and landslide debris.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/elon-musk-becomes-first-person-to-cross-700-billion-in-net-worth-closing-in-on-trillionaire-status-1766254036675">Elon Musk becomes first person to cross $700 billion in net worth, closing in on trillionaire status</a>&nbsp;Helicopters from INS Vikrant and IAF Mi-17s conducted sustained air rescues, evacuating vulnerable groups and delivering aid to isolated regions. An Indian Army field hospital in Badulla district treated thousands, while engineers airlifted Bailey bridges to restore severed road links. Naval vessels later ferried hundreds of tonnes of dry rations, including contributions from Tamil Nadu, to ports in Colombo and Trincomalee.&nbsp;Sri Lankan authorities have praised the operation's speed and coordination, with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake describing the cyclone as the most challenging disaster in recent history. EAM Jaishankar's upcoming India visit is expected to focus on continued reconstruction support, reflecting India's "Neighbourhood First" policy and shared maritime interests. &nbsp;

India launched Operation Sagar Bandhu immediately after the cyclone made landfall, becoming the first nation to deploy specialised disaster responders.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is set to visit Sri Lanka next week, a trip coming at a time when Delhi immediately reached out to its neighbour amid ongoing recovery from one of the country's worst natural disasters in decades. The visit follows India's swift and extensive humanitarian response to Cyclone Ditwah, which struck Sri Lanka on 27 November 2025, triggering catastrophic floods and landslides that have claimed over 500 lives and affected millions. India launched Operation Sagar Bandhu immediately after the cyclone made landfall, becoming the first nation to deploy specialised disaster responders. Within hours, Indian naval ships already in Colombo for a fleet review, including aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, handed over initial relief supplies. Over the ensuing days, India airlifted tonnes of essentials via Indian Air Force aircraft, including tents, blankets, hygiene kits, medicines and modular trauma units known as BHISHM Cubes. Elite National Disaster Response Force teams, equipped with search dogs, were deployed to hard-hit areas like Badulla and Gampaha, rescuing over 450 people from flooded homes and landslide debris. Also Read: Elon Musk becomes first person to cross $700 billion in net worth, closing in on trillionaire status Helicopters from INS Vikrant and IAF Mi-17s conducted sustained air rescues, evacuating vulnerable groups and delivering aid to isolated regions. An Indian Army field hospital in Badulla district treated thousands, while engineers airlifted Bailey bridges to restore severed road links. Naval vessels later ferried hundreds of tonnes of dry rations, including contributions from Tamil Nadu, to ports in Colombo and Trincomalee. Sri Lankan authorities have praised the operation's speed and coordination, with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake describing the cyclone as the most challenging disaster in recent history. EAM Jaishankar's upcoming India visit is expected to focus on continued reconstruction support, reflecting India's "Neighbourhood First" policy and shared maritime interests.

India launched Operation Sagar Bandhu immediately after the cyclone made landfall, becoming the first nation to deploy specialised disaster responders.

India's Foreign Minister Jaishankar to visit Sri Lanka amid ongoing recovery from deadly Cyclone Ditwah

The world's richest man got even richer after a US court decision. The Delaware Supreme Court on Friday (Dec 20) cleared Tech Billionaire Elon Musk's long-contested $56 billion Tesla pay package, reversing an earlier judgment of a lower court. The court ruled that the earlier decision of the lower court to cancel Musk's 2018 pay plan was too extreme a remedy and that the lower court did not give Tesla a chance to say what fair compensation should be.&nbsp;Following the decision, Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s net worth rose to $749 billion, nearly three times that of the world’s second-richest person, Google co-founder Larry Page, who is worth $252.6 billion. Musk is now closer than ever to becoming the first trillionaire, according to Forbes' billionaires index.&nbsp;The five-judge appeals panel determined that Chancellor Kathaleen McCormick of the state's Court of Chancery ruled improperly in ordering a rescission, the invalidating of Musk's package in its entirety. Musk's 2018 package has the approval of the majority shareholders of the company, but it ended up in court after a Tesla Shareholder, Richard Tornetta, challenged the compensation as excessive.&nbsp;The court struck down the award in January 2024 after a five-day trial, describing the process as “deeply flawed.” McCormick noted that Tesla’s board was vulnerable to manipulation by Musk, the paradigmatic ‘Superstar CEO,’ and she upheld her ruling in December 2024 following an appeal.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-critical-documents-missing-in-new-epstein-file-release-says-ro-khannabill-clinton-ghislaine-maxwell-jeffrey-epstein-files-release-1766233062120">‘Critical documents missing’ in new Epstein file release, says Ro Khanna, ‘likely shielding other rich and powerful’</a>&nbsp;Despite this, Tesla’s board has consistently supported Musk, approving an “interim” compensation award of around $29 billion in August and later announcing a pay package that could reach $1 trillion.&nbsp;Elon Musk made his wealth by co-founding seven companies, including electric car maker Tesla, rocket company SpaceX, and AI startup xAI.&nbsp;He owns about 12% of Tesla, which he first invested in 2004 and has led as CEO since 2008. &nbsp;SpaceX, founded in 2002, is valued at $800 billion based on a private tender offer in December 2025, with Musk owning an estimated 42% stake.&nbsp;In 2022, Musk bought Twitter in a $44 billion deal and merged it with xAI in March 2025. The combined company is valued at around $125 billion, including debt.&nbsp;Musk also founded The Boring Company, which focuses on tunnelling, and Neuralink, a brain-implant startup. Together, these two companies have raised about $2 billion from private investors.

Elon Musk is now worth nearly three times compared to the second richest person on earth, the Google founder Larry Page, is worth $252.6 billion.

The world's richest man got even richer after a US court decision. The Delaware Supreme Court on Friday (Dec 20) cleared Tech Billionaire Elon Musk's long-contested $56 billion Tesla pay package, reversing an earlier judgment of a lower court. The court ruled that the earlier decision of the lower court to cancel Musk's 2018 pay plan was too extreme a remedy and that the lower court did not give Tesla a chance to say what fair compensation should be. Following the decision, Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s net worth rose to $749 billion, nearly three times that of the world’s second-richest person, Google co-founder Larry Page, who is worth $252.6 billion. Musk is now closer than ever to becoming the first trillionaire, according to Forbes' billionaires index. The five-judge appeals panel determined that Chancellor Kathaleen McCormick of the state's Court of Chancery ruled improperly in ordering a rescission, the invalidating of Musk's package in its entirety. Musk's 2018 package has the approval of the majority shareholders of the company, but it ended up in court after a Tesla Shareholder, Richard Tornetta, challenged the compensation as excessive. The court struck down the award in January 2024 after a five-day trial, describing the process as “deeply flawed.” McCormick noted that Tesla’s board was vulnerable to manipulation by Musk, the paradigmatic ‘Superstar CEO,’ and she upheld her ruling in December 2024 following an appeal. Also Read: ‘Critical documents missing’ in new Epstein file release, says Ro Khanna, ‘likely shielding other rich and powerful’ Despite this, Tesla’s board has consistently supported Musk, approving an “interim” compensation award of around $29 billion in August and later announcing a pay package that could reach $1 trillion. Elon Musk made his wealth by co-founding seven companies, including electric car maker Tesla, rocket company SpaceX, and AI startup xAI. He owns about 12% of Tesla, which he first invested in 2004 and has led as CEO since 2008. SpaceX, founded in 2002, is valued at $800 billion based on a private tender offer in December 2025, with Musk owning an estimated 42% stake. In 2022, Musk bought Twitter in a $44 billion deal and merged it with xAI in March 2025. The combined company is valued at around $125 billion, including debt. Musk also founded The Boring Company, which focuses on tunnelling, and Neuralink, a brain-implant startup. Together, these two companies have raised about $2 billion from private investors.

Elon Musk is now worth nearly three times compared to the second richest person on earth, the Google founder Larry Page, is worth $252.6 billion.

Elon Musk becomes first person to cross $700 billion in net worth, closing in on trillionaire status

New Delhi: The United Nations has marked the approach to the second World Meditation Day with a high-level gathering at its New York headquarters, emphasising meditation’s role in fostering inner peace amid global turmoil. On Friday, the Permanent Mission of India, alongside those of Andorra, Mexico, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, hosted the event in the Trusteeship Council Chamber. Nearly 700 people, comprising diplomats, experts, and other participants, attended.&nbsp;Renowned Indian spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar delivered the keynote address and led a guided meditation. He described the current global climate starkly, saying, “Today, we are living in circumstances that are no less than a war zone.” Highlighting meditation’s practical impact, he cited experiences in conflict zones. “In Ukraine, 8,000 people meditated and found peace. Many of them were soldiers who, at the time, felt a deep sense of darkness within, with no hope. They were depressed and unable to sleep. Meditation helped them regain their spirit.” He also stressed the need for introspection, saying, “In such a situation, it is extremely important for us to turn inward.”&nbsp;Other speakers included Yogmata Keiko Aikawa, Sister BK Gayatri from the Brahma Kumaris Organisation, LP Bhanu Sharma from Nepal’s Jeevan Vigyan Foundation, Professor Lasantha Chandana Goonetilleke from Rutgers University, and physicist Dr John Hagelin, president of the Global Union of Scientists for Peace. They discussed meditation’s benefits for well-being and tackling modern challenges.&nbsp;India’s Permanent Representative, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni, emphasised on India’s ancient perspective, “transforming oneself brings about transformation in the external world”. Representatives from Nepal, Sri Lanka, Andorra and Mexico also addressed the gathering. India, along with these countries-the core group, led the finalization of the World Meditation Day resolution. The UN General Assembly unanimously adopted resolution A/RES/79/137 on 6 December 2024, proclaiming 21 December as World Meditation Day. The first observance was held at UN headquarters on 20 December 2024, ahead of the official date.

Renowned Indian spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar delivered the keynote address and led a guided meditation. He described the current global climate starkly, saying that we are today living in circumstances that are no less than a war zone.

New Delhi: The United Nations has marked the approach to the second World Meditation Day with a high-level gathering at its New York headquarters, emphasising meditation’s role in fostering inner peace amid global turmoil. On Friday, the Permanent Mission of India, alongside those of Andorra, Mexico, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, hosted the event in the Trusteeship Council Chamber. Nearly 700 people, comprising diplomats, experts, and other participants, attended. Renowned Indian spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar delivered the keynote address and led a guided meditation. He described the current global climate starkly, saying, “Today, we are living in circumstances that are no less than a war zone.” Highlighting meditation’s practical impact, he cited experiences in conflict zones. “In Ukraine, 8,000 people meditated and found peace. Many of them were soldiers who, at the time, felt a deep sense of darkness within, with no hope. They were depressed and unable to sleep. Meditation helped them regain their spirit.” He also stressed the need for introspection, saying, “In such a situation, it is extremely important for us to turn inward.” Other speakers included Yogmata Keiko Aikawa, Sister BK Gayatri from the Brahma Kumaris Organisation, LP Bhanu Sharma from Nepal’s Jeevan Vigyan Foundation, Professor Lasantha Chandana Goonetilleke from Rutgers University, and physicist Dr John Hagelin, president of the Global Union of Scientists for Peace. They discussed meditation’s benefits for well-being and tackling modern challenges. India’s Permanent Representative, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni, emphasised on India’s ancient perspective, “transforming oneself brings about transformation in the external world”. Representatives from Nepal, Sri Lanka, Andorra and Mexico also addressed the gathering. India, along with these countries-the core group, led the finalization of the World Meditation Day resolution. The UN General Assembly unanimously adopted resolution A/RES/79/137 on 6 December 2024, proclaiming 21 December as World Meditation Day. The first observance was held at UN headquarters on 20 December 2024, ahead of the official date.

Renowned Indian spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar delivered the keynote address and led a guided meditation. He described the current global climate starkly, saying that we are today living in circumstances that are no less than a war zone.

India’s UN Mission hosts Sri Sri Ravi Shankar for World Meditation Day celebrations

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that the US has offered a potential new format for peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, with American and possibly European envoys also participating in the negotiations. Zelensky said Kyiv will take a decision on the format once it is clear if the ongoing bilateral discussions with the US negotiators that resumed on Friday are positive, adding that he would take up the matter with Rustem Umerov, the chief of Ukraine’s delegation.&nbsp;Zelensky did not share the specifics about what kind of format had been proposed by the Trump administration.“The US said they would have a separate meeting with representatives of Russia. And they proposed the following format, as far as I understand: Ukraine, America, Russia, and, since there are representatives of Europe there, probably Europe as well,” Zelensky said.&nbsp;US negotiators were set to meet Russian officials in Florida on Saturday.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-after-all-shri-hanuman-finally-serves-replies-eam-when-asked-if-india-needs-more-than-one-jaishankar-1766243874365">‘After all, Shri Hanuman finally serves…,’ replies EAM when asked if India needs more than one Jaishankar? WATCH</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Russian envoy confirmed he was travelling to Miami</h2>&nbsp;Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev confirmed he was travelling to Miami, while Ukrainian and European delegations were also in the city. The talks are being mediated by US envoy Steve Witkoff and President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.&nbsp;Ukraine and Russia have not held any face-to-face negotiations since July, but the US has intensified its efforts to end the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-s-ex-pm-imran-khan-wife-bushra-bibi-sentenced-to-17-years-in-toshakhana-case-after-trial-in-adiala-jail-1766229127874">Pakistan’s ex-PM Imran Khan, wife Bushra Bibi sentenced to 17 years in Toshakhana case after trial in Adiala Jail</a>&nbsp;Ukrainian and European representatives held discussions with American counterparts in the US on Friday and agreed to resume contact soon, Umerov said.Trump’s envoys have been pushing a plan under which the United States would offer security guarantees to Ukraine, while Kyiv could be expected to make territorial concessions—a condition that has triggered deep resentment among many Ukrainians.&nbsp;<h2>Washington would not impose a settlement on Kyiv: Rubio</h2>&nbsp;US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Friday that Washington would not impose a settlement on Kyiv.“There’s no peace deal unless Ukraine agrees to it,” Rubio said, adding that he could join the Miami talks.&nbsp;&nbsp;The last official direct talks between Ukrainian and Russian representatives took place in July in Istanbul, resulting in prisoner swaps but little tangible progress toward ending the war.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-yunus-trying-to-bring-islamists-to-power-via-rigged-poll-threat-to-india-is-real-hasina-s-son-sajeeb-wazed-1766140132399">‘Yunus trying to bring Islamists to power via rigged poll, threat to India is real’: Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed</a>&nbsp;The presence of Russian and European officials in Miami marks a shift from earlier rounds, when the US held separate talks with each side in different locations.&nbsp;Moscow has repeatedly argued that European involvement would hinder negotiations, often portraying EU leaders as pro-war.&nbsp;President Vladimir Putin said on Friday he would continue the offensive, citing battlefield gains nearly four years into the war. Putin also suggested pausing strikes to allow Ukraine to hold elections, a proposal Zelensky rejected.

Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev confirmed he was travelling to Miami, while Ukrainian and European delegations were also in the city. The talks are being mediated by US envoy Steve Witkoff and President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday that the US has offered a potential new format for peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, with American and possibly European envoys also participating in the negotiations. Zelensky said Kyiv will take a decision on the format once it is clear if the ongoing bilateral discussions with the US negotiators that resumed on Friday are positive, adding that he would take up the matter with Rustem Umerov, the chief of Ukraine’s delegation. Zelensky did not share the specifics about what kind of format had been proposed by the Trump administration. “The US said they would have a separate meeting with representatives of Russia. And they proposed the following format, as far as I understand: Ukraine, America, Russia, and, since there are representatives of Europe there, probably Europe as well,” Zelensky said. US negotiators were set to meet Russian officials in Florida on Saturday. Also Read: ‘After all, Shri Hanuman finally serves…,’ replies EAM when asked if India needs more than one Jaishankar? WATCH Russian envoy confirmed he was travelling to Miami Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev confirmed he was travelling to Miami, while Ukrainian and European delegations were also in the city. The talks are being mediated by US envoy Steve Witkoff and President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner. Ukraine and Russia have not held any face-to-face negotiations since July, but the US has intensified its efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Also Read: Pakistan’s ex-PM Imran Khan, wife Bushra Bibi sentenced to 17 years in Toshakhana case after trial in Adiala Jail Ukrainian and European representatives held discussions with American counterparts in the US on Friday and agreed to resume contact soon, Umerov said. Trump’s envoys have been pushing a plan under which the United States would offer security guarantees to Ukraine, while Kyiv could be expected to make territorial concessions—a condition that has triggered deep resentment among many Ukrainians. Washington would not impose a settlement on Kyiv: Rubio US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Friday that Washington would not impose a settlement on Kyiv. “There’s no peace deal unless Ukraine agrees to it,” Rubio said, adding that he could join the Miami talks. The last official direct talks between Ukrainian and Russian representatives took place in July in Istanbul, resulting in prisoner swaps but little tangible progress toward ending the war. Also Read: ‘Yunus trying to bring Islamists to power via rigged poll, threat to India is real’: Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed The presence of Russian and European officials in Miami marks a shift from earlier rounds, when the US held separate talks with each side in different locations. Moscow has repeatedly argued that European involvement would hinder negotiations, often portraying EU leaders as pro-war. President Vladimir Putin said on Friday he would continue the offensive, citing battlefield gains nearly four years into the war. Putin also suggested pausing strikes to allow Ukraine to hold elections, a proposal Zelensky rejected.

Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev confirmed he was travelling to Miami, while Ukrainian and European delegations were also in the city. The talks are being mediated by US envoy Steve Witkoff and President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.

US has mooted direct Ukraine-Russia talks for ending war, says Zelensky

It's tough to imagine a modern construction without Cement, the material that has become the bedrock of construction due to its capacity to hold the structural integrity of modern structures and has been one of the pillars enabling rapid urbanisation. But we may no longer have to put ecology at risk by breaking mountains for the valuable material, as an engineering lab in Melbourne, Australia, came up with a building material that offers similar strength to construction but can be made by using Soil, water and recycled cardboard only. A team from RMIT University in Australia has created a material known as cardboar-confined rammed earth (CCRE) that can potentially replace one of the most polluting elements of Modern infrastructure: Cement. It is responsible for around 8 per cent of CO2 emissions and is a key contributor to ecological destruction as a key constituent of Cement; the limestone is obtained by crushing mountains.<h2>Cement-free construction gets modern upgrade</h2>Researchers have reworked the ancient rammed-earth technique to create CCRE by replacing cement stabilisers with recycled cardboard tubes. These tubes act as both formwork and reinforcement, allowing soil and water to be compacted by hand or simple tools. Once dried, the structure becomes load-bearing without requiring cement, kilns or energy-intensive curing processes.<h2>Strong, simple and low-Carbon</h2>Lab tests published in Structures show that cardboard-reinforced soil can outperform cement-stabilised rammed earth in compressive strength, especially with tube thickness between 1 mm and 4 mm. Advanced versions using carbon fibre reinforcement achieved strength levels comparable to high-performance concrete, while maintaining a low environmental footprint.<h2>Turning waste into building material</h2>With Australia sending over 2.2 million tonnes of paper and cardboard to landfills each year, CCRE offers a way to reuse this waste in construction. Lightweight cardboard moulds can be transported easily, while soil and water are sourced locally, cutting costs and reducing dependence on industrial materials.<h2>Designed for hot Climates and easy scaling</h2>Like traditional rammed earth, the system provides high thermal mass, enabling passive cooling and lower energy use in hot climates. The modular design allows builders to adjust strength by changing tube thickness and soil mix, making it suitable for low-rise housing, emergency shelters and climate-resilient infrastructure.

A lab in Melbourne has developed cardboard-confined rammed earth (CCRE), a composite made using only soil, water and recycled cardboard, which could potentially replace cement, the most polluting material in modern construction. 

It's tough to imagine a modern construction without Cement, the material that has become the bedrock of construction due to its capacity to hold the structural integrity of modern structures and has been one of the pillars enabling rapid urbanisation. But we may no longer have to put ecology at risk by breaking mountains for the valuable material, as an engineering lab in Melbourne, Australia, came up with a building material that offers similar strength to construction but can be made by using Soil, water and recycled cardboard only. A team from RMIT University in Australia has created a material known as cardboar-confined rammed earth (CCRE) that can potentially replace one of the most polluting elements of Modern infrastructure: Cement. It is responsible for around 8 per cent of CO2 emissions and is a key contributor to ecological destruction as a key constituent of Cement; the limestone is obtained by crushing mountains. Cement-free construction gets modern upgrade Researchers have reworked the ancient rammed-earth technique to create CCRE by replacing cement stabilisers with recycled cardboard tubes. These tubes act as both formwork and reinforcement, allowing soil and water to be compacted by hand or simple tools. Once dried, the structure becomes load-bearing without requiring cement, kilns or energy-intensive curing processes. Strong, simple and low-Carbon Lab tests published in Structures show that cardboard-reinforced soil can outperform cement-stabilised rammed earth in compressive strength, especially with tube thickness between 1 mm and 4 mm. Advanced versions using carbon fibre reinforcement achieved strength levels comparable to high-performance concrete, while maintaining a low environmental footprint. Turning waste into building material With Australia sending over 2.2 million tonnes of paper and cardboard to landfills each year, CCRE offers a way to reuse this waste in construction. Lightweight cardboard moulds can be transported easily, while soil and water are sourced locally, cutting costs and reducing dependence on industrial materials. Designed for hot Climates and easy scaling Like traditional rammed earth, the system provides high thermal mass, enabling passive cooling and lower energy use in hot climates. The modular design allows builders to adjust strength by changing tube thickness and soil mix, making it suitable for low-rise housing, emergency shelters and climate-resilient infrastructure.

A lab in Melbourne has developed cardboard-confined rammed earth (CCRE), a composite made using only soil, water and recycled cardboard, which could potentially replace cement, the most polluting material in modern construction.&nbsp;

No longer need cement for building: Dirt, water and waste-based material could be the future of construction

The fresh tranche of Epstein files released by the Justice Department on Friday (Dec 19) triggered renewed scrutiny on Former British Royal Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's ties with Jeffrey Epstein, with multiple photographs featuring him, including him being in compromising positions with alleged victims of Epstein's sex crime enterprise. One image that caught widespread attention online shows the disgraced former Prince Andrew lying across the laps of five women. His head rested near one woman's lap, above the bare legs of another. He appears relaxed, smiling with his eyes closed, with Epstein's long-term partner and associate in child sex trafficking, Ghislaine Maxwell, who can be seen smiling at the former Duke of York.<h2>Early association with Epstein</h2>Andrew’s links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein date back more than two decades. Photographs from 1999 first showed Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell and Andrew together at Balmoral, marking the beginning of their acquaintance.&nbsp;&nbsp;Virginia Giuffre first publicly made allegations against Prince Andrew in 2009 through interviews and legal filings connected to Epstein’s criminal case. Public attention intensified in November 2019, when Andrew’s BBC Newsnight interview defending the friendship drew widespread criticism and prompted him to step back from public royal duties.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-critical-documents-missing-in-new-epstein-file-release-says-ro-khannabill-clinton-ghislaine-maxwell-jeffrey-epstein-files-release-1766233062120">‘Critical documents missing’ in new Epstein file release, says Ro Khanna, ‘likely shielding other rich and powerful’</a><h2>Allegations, lawsuit and civil settlement</h2>In February 2022, Andrew settled a civil lawsuit filed by Virginia Roberts Giuffre, who alleged he sexually abused her in 2001 when she was 17 and being trafficked by Epstein and Maxwell. The settlement, reported to be around £12 million, resolved the case without Andrew admitting liability. Giuffre’s posthumous memoir, Nobody’s Girl, published in October 2025, renewed scrutiny of his conduct.<h2>Loss of royal status and titles</h2>Under mounting pressure, King Charles III announced in October 2025 that Andrew would surrender his titles and step back further from royal life. A Letters Patent dated 3 November 2025 formally stripped him of the style of “His Royal Highness”, the title of “Prince” and other honours, and removed him from the Roll of the Peerage. He is now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and has been ordered to vacate Royal Lodge in Windsor.<h2>No criminal charges and unanswered questions</h2>British police have said they will not pursue criminal charges, citing insufficient evidence of illegal conduct. Giuffre died by suicide in April 2025, and her family described the removal of Andrew’s titles as a victory for survivor accountability. Critics argue the newly released DOJ files remain heavily redacted, leaving major questions about Epstein’s wider network and the role of powerful figures unresolved.

The newly released photographs under the Epstein Files Transparency Act have renewed focus on former British royal Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s two-decade-long ties with the disgraced financier and convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The fresh tranche of Epstein files released by the Justice Department on Friday (Dec 19) triggered renewed scrutiny on Former British Royal Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's ties with Jeffrey Epstein, with multiple photographs featuring him, including him being in compromising positions with alleged victims of Epstein's sex crime enterprise. One image that caught widespread attention online shows the disgraced former Prince Andrew lying across the laps of five women. His head rested near one woman's lap, above the bare legs of another. He appears relaxed, smiling with his eyes closed, with Epstein's long-term partner and associate in child sex trafficking, Ghislaine Maxwell, who can be seen smiling at the former Duke of York. Early association with Epstein Andrew’s links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein date back more than two decades. Photographs from 1999 first showed Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell and Andrew together at Balmoral, marking the beginning of their acquaintance. Virginia Giuffre first publicly made allegations against Prince Andrew in 2009 through interviews and legal filings connected to Epstein’s criminal case. Public attention intensified in November 2019, when Andrew’s BBC Newsnight interview defending the friendship drew widespread criticism and prompted him to step back from public royal duties. Also Read: ‘Critical documents missing’ in new Epstein file release, says Ro Khanna, ‘likely shielding other rich and powerful’ Allegations, lawsuit and civil settlement In February 2022, Andrew settled a civil lawsuit filed by Virginia Roberts Giuffre, who alleged he sexually abused her in 2001 when she was 17 and being trafficked by Epstein and Maxwell. The settlement, reported to be around £12 million, resolved the case without Andrew admitting liability. Giuffre’s posthumous memoir, Nobody’s Girl, published in October 2025, renewed scrutiny of his conduct. Loss of royal status and titles Under mounting pressure, King Charles III announced in October 2025 that Andrew would surrender his titles and step back further from royal life. A Letters Patent dated 3 November 2025 formally stripped him of the style of “His Royal Highness”, the title of “Prince” and other honours, and removed him from the Roll of the Peerage. He is now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and has been ordered to vacate Royal Lodge in Windsor. No criminal charges and unanswered questions British police have said they will not pursue criminal charges, citing insufficient evidence of illegal conduct. Giuffre died by suicide in April 2025, and her family described the removal of Andrew’s titles as a victory for survivor accountability. Critics argue the newly released DOJ files remain heavily redacted, leaving major questions about Epstein’s wider network and the role of powerful figures unresolved.

The newly released photographs under the Epstein Files Transparency Act have renewed focus on former British royal Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s two-decade-long ties with the disgraced financier and convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Former British Prince in Epstein files: Royal titles revoked, legal settlement reached, and survivor’s suicide

The files and images released by the DOJ had several mentions of former Democratic president Bill Clinton, with minimal references to US President Donald Trump.

Epstein files: From lavish lifestyle to threatening victims – SHOCKING revelations

Russian President Vladimir Putin was asked about the 3I ATLAS comet and its possible link to an extraterrestrial being by a reporter during the annual televised press conference. Vladimir Putin responded that his answer should remain &nbsp;“strictly between us”, and then he said it's “Russia's secret weapon”, as the crowd erupted in laughter. Putin then further added that Russia will only use this weapon in the most extreme case. “Because we are against deploying weapons in space”.&nbsp;“Seriously, though, it's a comet. Our scientists are aware of what's happening. Moreover, it's a comet from another galaxy, so it behaves differently than comets of our galactic origin,” said Putin while addressing the lady Kristina in the crowd.Putin further clarified that the 3I/ATLAS has a different shell, and as it approaches closer to the sun, different processes appear on its surface, such as elongation of the tail, etc. He said that the moon, which appears so close, is 400,000 km away from Earth, and the 3I/ATLAS is 259 million km away from Earth, and it poses no threat.<h2>Putin's annual press conference</h2>The annual marathon event lasted approximately four hours, and appx 2.5 million questions were sent in for the 2025 event. Among them, there were several grilling and light-hearted moments. One young boy asked if Putin roamed around Moscow like an undercover spy, to which Putin responded, "Sometimes". Kirill Bazhanov, a 23-year-old student, proposed to his girlfriend Olga on live air. Another man asked to put up a monument for Persian poet Omar Khayyam, to which Putin agreed.From time to time, there were sarcastic comments that popped up on the big screen, showing incoming text messages intended for the president. Few users grilled Putin. One user wrote, "Not a direct line, but a circus," another wrote, ”Vladimir Vladimirovich, it's Friday already, can we break out the booze?”Some commented about the rusty tap water, a few asked about internet outages, and one person asked about the poor economic conditions. One user wrote, "Block Roskomnadzor itself!" attacking the communication watchdog, which has blocked all foreign tech platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook and Snapchat.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Putin laughs off alien rumours around the 3I/ATLAS comet, calling it 'Russia’s secret weapon' before assuring it poses no threat to Earth.

Russian President Vladimir Putin was asked about the 3I ATLAS comet and its possible link to an extraterrestrial being by a reporter during the annual televised press conference. Vladimir Putin responded that his answer should remain “strictly between us”, and then he said it's “Russia's secret weapon”, as the crowd erupted in laughter. Putin then further added that Russia will only use this weapon in the most extreme case. “Because we are against deploying weapons in space”. “Seriously, though, it's a comet. Our scientists are aware of what's happening. Moreover, it's a comet from another galaxy, so it behaves differently than comets of our galactic origin,” said Putin while addressing the lady Kristina in the crowd. Putin further clarified that the 3I/ATLAS has a different shell, and as it approaches closer to the sun, different processes appear on its surface, such as elongation of the tail, etc. He said that the moon, which appears so close, is 400,000 km away from Earth, and the 3I/ATLAS is 259 million km away from Earth, and it poses no threat. Putin's annual press conference The annual marathon event lasted approximately four hours, and appx 2.5 million questions were sent in for the 2025 event. Among them, there were several grilling and light-hearted moments. One young boy asked if Putin roamed around Moscow like an undercover spy, to which Putin responded, "Sometimes". Kirill Bazhanov, a 23-year-old student, proposed to his girlfriend Olga on live air. Another man asked to put up a monument for Persian poet Omar Khayyam, to which Putin agreed. From time to time, there were sarcastic comments that popped up on the big screen, showing incoming text messages intended for the president. Few users grilled Putin. One user wrote, "Not a direct line, but a circus," another wrote, ”Vladimir Vladimirovich, it's Friday already, can we break out the booze?”Some commented about the rusty tap water, a few asked about internet outages, and one person asked about the poor economic conditions. One user wrote, "Block Roskomnadzor itself!" attacking the communication watchdog, which has blocked all foreign tech platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook and Snapchat.

Putin laughs off alien rumours around the 3I/ATLAS comet, calling it “Russia’s secret weapon” before assuring it poses no threat to Earth.

Putin jokes about 3I/ATLAS comet as 'Russia’s secret weapon' at annual press conference

Tens of thousands of Bangladeshi mourners, including the country’s interim government leader, attended the funeral of slain youth leader Osman Hadi in Dhaka amid tight security on Saturday. The interim government’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, his advisory council members, and Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman attended the funeral for the 32-year-old spokesperson of ‘Inqilab Mancha’ held at the South Plaza of Parliament complex at Manik Mia Avenue. Hadi’s elder brother Abu Bakar conducted the janaza, after which the body was taken to Dhaka University campus for burial.&nbsp;The grave was dug overnight beside the mausoleum of Bangladesh’s national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam.“In line with the earlier announcement, the body was not kept for public viewing and only select people were allowed to witness the burial,” a police officer said. Police allowed tens of thousands of people to join the funeral prayers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">On Saturday, 20 December 2025, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus attended the funeral of Sharif Osman Hadi at the National Parliament’s South Plaza. Photos: CA Press Wing <a href="https://t.co/04Nroispwk">pic.twitter.com/04Nroispwk</a>&mdash; Chief Adviser of the Government of Bangladesh (@ChiefAdviserGoB) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChiefAdviserGoB/status/2002318468956492159?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-s-ex-pm-imran-khan-wife-bushra-bibi-sentenced-to-17-years-in-toshakhana-case-after-trial-in-adiala-jail-1766229127874">Pakistan’s ex-PM Imran Khan, wife Bushra Bibi sentenced to 17 years in Toshakhana case after trial in Adiala Jail</a>&nbsp;<h2>Yunus hails Hadi, vows to uphold his ideals</h2>&nbsp;Addressing a gathering at the funeral, Yunus said people across Bangladesh and the diaspora were united in remembering Hadi, adding that he would live on in the nation’s heart. Yunus described Hadi as a voice of conviction and commitment, whose ideals and contributions had left a lasting imprint on public life. He said Hadi’s work and sacrifices would remain a source of inspiration for those striving for justice and change.Yunus also extended his condolences to Hadi’s family, friends and colleagues, and prayed for the departed soul.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-suspends-green-card-lottery-after-brown-university-and-mit-shootings-suspect-s-identity-revealed-1766146383570">Trump suspends Green Card lottery after Brown University and MIT shootings suspect found to be immigrant</a><h2>Ally warns Yunus govt, issues 24-hour ultimatum over killer’s arrest</h2>&nbsp;Abdullah Al Jaber, a colleague of Osman Hadi from Inquilab Mancha, on Friday issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the Muhammad Yunus-led government. He demanded that within the next 24 hours the government publicly disclose what measures it has taken to identify and arrest those responsible for Hadi’s killing.&nbsp;Violent protests rocked Dhaka and major cities after the announcement of Hadi’s death on Thursday at a Singapore hospital six days after gunmen shot him.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-yunus-trying-to-bring-islamists-to-power-via-rigged-poll-threat-to-india-is-real-hasina-s-son-sajeeb-wazed-1766140132399">‘Yunus trying to bring Islamists to power via rigged poll, threat to India is real’: Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed</a><h2>UN calls for protection of electoral freedom ahead of polls</h2>&nbsp;UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk said he is “deeply disturbed” by the killing of Osman Hadi and urged restraint, warning that violence and retaliation would only worsen divisions. He called on authorities to carry out a swift, impartial and transparent investigation and ensure accountability, amid protests, arson and reported attacks on journalists. Türk stressed the need to protect freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and journalists’ safety, and said the UN stands ready to support efforts to prevent further unrest.&nbsp;Amnesty International also urged prompt, independent investigations into Hadi’s killing and the subsequent violence, including the burning of newspaper ⁠offices and harassment of journalists.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/isis-calls-bondi-beach-mass-shooting-source-of-pride-stops-short-of-claiming-responsibility-1766081485602">ISIS calls Bondi Beach mass shooting ‘source of pride,’ stops short of claiming responsibility</a><h2>BNP leader’s 7-year-old daughter burnt to death</h2>&nbsp;A BNP leader’s seven-year-old girl was killed and three others critically injured in Bangladesh’s Lakshmipur Sadar upazila on Saturday after miscreants allegedly locked a BNP leader’s house from outside and set it on fire. The victims include BNP leader Belal Hossain and his two teenage daughters, who suffered severe burns, reported The Daily Star.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-get-my-husband-s-friend-elected-erika-kirk-endorses-jd-vance-for-next-us-president-1766152118459">‘Get my husband’s friend elected’: Erika Kirk endorses JD Vance for next US President</a><h2>Yunus govt asks Meta to act against violence-inciting content</h2>&nbsp;The interim government has written to Meta asking it to take down violence-inciting content from Facebook. It alleged that such content was being posted to “sabotage the election process” and “encourage attacks on media organisations”.It also asked Meta, Facebook and Instagram’s parent company, to monitor Bangladesh-related content till the elections are over.

The interim government has written to Meta asking it to take down violence-inciting content from Facebook. It alleged that such content was being posted to “sabotage the election process” and “encourage attacks on media organisations”.

Tens of thousands of Bangladeshi mourners, including the country’s interim government leader, attended the funeral of slain youth leader Osman Hadi in Dhaka amid tight security on Saturday. The interim government’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, his advisory council members, and Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman attended the funeral for the 32-year-old spokesperson of ‘Inqilab Mancha’ held at the South Plaza of Parliament complex at Manik Mia Avenue. Hadi’s elder brother Abu Bakar conducted the janaza, after which the body was taken to Dhaka University campus for burial. The grave was dug overnight beside the mausoleum of Bangladesh’s national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. “In line with the earlier announcement, the body was not kept for public viewing and only select people were allowed to witness the burial,” a police officer said. Police allowed tens of thousands of people to join the funeral prayers.

The interim government has written to Meta asking it to take down violence-inciting content from Facebook. It alleged that such content was being posted to “sabotage the election process” and “encourage attacks on media organisations”.

Osman Hadi buried next to Kazi Nazrul Islam; UN calls for protection of electoral freedom ahead of Bangladesh polls

The US Justice Department on Friday (Dec 19) released a fresh tranche of a long-awaited records from investigators into one of the most politically explosive cases of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The heavily redacted disclosure sparked a wave of criticism and questions over the material, individuals and information that is kept away from the pubic eye. The newly released documents contain photographs featuring influential individuals, including Former US President Bill Clinton, Michael Jackson, British Royal Prince Andrew, among others within Epstein's social circle. Democratic Representative Ro Khanna, who co-authored the Epstein Files Transparency Act with Republican Thomas Massie, on Friday said that the most important documents were missing from the DoJ's initial release of the investigation into disgraced financier Epstein's sex crime enterprise. He accused the government of withholding the documents that the law required to be made public. “The most important documents are missing,” Khanna told CNN, reacting to the Justice Department’s release of thousands of records under the Epstein Files Transparency Act earlier in the day. He said the material made public so far is heavily redacted and fails to include key documents.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-could-have-stopped-epstein-s-abuse-new-release-reveals-1996-child-porn-complaint-was-ignored-1766228498936">FBI could have stopped Epstein’s abuse; new release reveals 1996 child porn complaint was ignored</a>Raising questions over the intent behind releasing heavily redacted documents, Khanna said the disclosure does not answer key questions for the public: “Who are the other rich and powerful men on the island, raping these young girls or covering up?”<h2>What are two key missing documents?&nbsp;</h2>According to Khanna, the two documents include a 60-count federal indictment drafted by a Florida prosecutor in 2007 and an 82-page memo summarising the evidence supporting the charges against Epstein.&nbsp;However, then-US Attorney in Florida, Alex Acosta, offered Epstein a plea deal to avoid federal prosecution. Under the deal, Epstein pleaded guilty to lesser state charges, served at least two years in jail, registered as a sex offender, and made financial restitution. Acosta later served as President Trump’s first Labour Secretary from 2017 to 2019, resigning amid renewed scrutiny of Epstein’s case.&nbsp;Khanna co-authored the Epstein Files Transparency Act with Republican Rep. Thomas Massie. The law, signed last month by President Donald Trump, required the Justice Department to release all files related to Epstein by Friday, with exceptions only for survivors’ personal information and a few narrowly defined categories. &nbsp;

Raising questions about the purpose of releasing heavily redacted documents, Khanna said the disclosure fails to answer key public concerns, including who the other wealthy and influential men on the island were, either abusing young girls or covering up the crimes.

The US Justice Department on Friday (Dec 19) released a fresh tranche of a long-awaited records from investigators into one of the most politically explosive cases of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The heavily redacted disclosure sparked a wave of criticism and questions over the material, individuals and information that is kept away from the pubic eye. The newly released documents contain photographs featuring influential individuals, including Former US President Bill Clinton, Michael Jackson, British Royal Prince Andrew, among others within Epstein's social circle. Democratic Representative Ro Khanna, who co-authored the Epstein Files Transparency Act with Republican Thomas Massie, on Friday said that the most important documents were missing from the DoJ's initial release of the investigation into disgraced financier Epstein's sex crime enterprise. He accused the government of withholding the documents that the law required to be made public. “The most important documents are missing,” Khanna told CNN, reacting to the Justice Department’s release of thousands of records under the Epstein Files Transparency Act earlier in the day. He said the material made public so far is heavily redacted and fails to include key documents. Also Read: FBI could have stopped Epstein’s abuse; new release reveals 1996 child porn complaint was ignored Raising questions over the intent behind releasing heavily redacted documents, Khanna said the disclosure does not answer key questions for the public: “Who are the other rich and powerful men on the island, raping these young girls or covering up?” What are two key missing documents? According to Khanna, the two documents include a 60-count federal indictment drafted by a Florida prosecutor in 2007 and an 82-page memo summarising the evidence supporting the charges against Epstein. However, then-US Attorney in Florida, Alex Acosta, offered Epstein a plea deal to avoid federal prosecution. Under the deal, Epstein pleaded guilty to lesser state charges, served at least two years in jail, registered as a sex offender, and made financial restitution. Acosta later served as President Trump’s first Labour Secretary from 2017 to 2019, resigning amid renewed scrutiny of Epstein’s case. Khanna co-authored the Epstein Files Transparency Act with Republican Rep. Thomas Massie. The law, signed last month by President Donald Trump, required the Justice Department to release all files related to Epstein by Friday, with exceptions only for survivors’ personal information and a few narrowly defined categories.

Raising questions about the purpose of releasing heavily redacted documents, Khanna said the disclosure fails to answer key public concerns, including who the other wealthy and influential men on the island were, either abusing young girls or covering up the crimes.

‘Critical documents missing’ in new Epstein file release, says Ro Khanna, ‘likely shielding other rich and powerful’

The trove of Epstein Files released by the Department of Justice on December 19 has been massively redacted. With a large number of pages completely blacked out. The released pictures and files have substantial presence of former US President Bill Clinton, Prince Andrew, but very little reference to US President Donald Trump. The Epstein Files Transparency Act was supposed to redact the identity of victims, but the ferocious redaction hints towards foul play, which is also asserted by the Democrats. But people on social media manage to find several mentions and indications of Donald Trump.<h2>Donald Trump in Epstein Files</h2>One social media post pointed out a picture of Epstein with a $22500 cheque signed by the US President Donald Trump is in the Epstein File. The picture shows Epstein posing with a woman holding the cheque. The face of the woman was redacted. The picture frame had the text “Once in a lifetime” written around it.There were also other pictures of Donald Trump with the jailed accomplice of Ghislaine Maxwell, and a picture with a few models in the desk drawer of Epstein.&nbsp;Apart from these pictures, there was a document where one encounter between a teenager named Doe and Epstein was pointed out by YouTuber Keith Edwards. &nbsp;"During one of Doe's encounters with Epstein, he took her to Mar-a-Lago, where he introduced her to its owner, Donald J. Trump. Introducing 14-year-old Doe to Donald J. Trump, Epstein elbowed Trump playfully, asking him, referring to Doe, 'This is a good one, right?' Trump smiled and nodded in agreement. They both chuckled, and Doe felt uncomfortable, but, at the time, was too young to understand why," read the document.&nbsp;

Massively redacted Epstein Files released by the DOJ spark controversy as social media users flag documents and images allegedly linking Donald Trump.

The trove of Epstein Files released by the Department of Justice on December 19 has been massively redacted. With a large number of pages completely blacked out. The released pictures and files have substantial presence of former US President Bill Clinton, Prince Andrew, but very little reference to US President Donald Trump. The Epstein Files Transparency Act was supposed to redact the identity of victims, but the ferocious redaction hints towards foul play, which is also asserted by the Democrats. But people on social media manage to find several mentions and indications of Donald Trump. Donald Trump in Epstein Files One social media post pointed out a picture of Epstein with a $22500 cheque signed by the US President Donald Trump is in the Epstein File. The picture shows Epstein posing with a woman holding the cheque. The face of the woman was redacted. The picture frame had the text “Once in a lifetime” written around it. There were also other pictures of Donald Trump with the jailed accomplice of Ghislaine Maxwell, and a picture with a few models in the desk drawer of Epstein. Apart from these pictures, there was a document where one encounter between a teenager named Doe and Epstein was pointed out by YouTuber Keith Edwards. "During one of Doe's encounters with Epstein, he took her to Mar-a-Lago, where he introduced her to its owner, Donald J. Trump. Introducing 14-year-old Doe to Donald J. Trump, Epstein elbowed Trump playfully, asking him, referring to Doe, 'This is a good one, right?' Trump smiled and nodded in agreement. They both chuckled, and Doe felt uncomfortable, but, at the time, was too young to understand why," read the document.

Massively redacted Epstein Files released by the DOJ spark controversy as social media users flag documents and images allegedly linking Donald Trump.

Epstein files: Donald Trump mentions emerge despite heavy redactions

A special court has sentenced Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former PM Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi to 17 years of imprisonment each in the Toshakhana 2 case. Special Judge Central Shahrukh Arjumand pronounced the verdict on Saturday after conducting 80 hearings at Rawalpindi’s Adiala jail, where Imran is incarcerated. The case involves the acquisition of an expensive Bulgari jewellery set gifted to Imran by the Saudi crown prince during an official visit in May 2021, at a throwaway price. The prosecution contended that Imran retained the jewellery set, valued at approximately Rs 80 million, after paying only Rs 2.9 million.&nbsp;According to the judgment, Imran and Bushra were jailed for 10 years each under sections 34 and 409 of the Pakistan Penal Code and an additional seven years’ imprisonment each under section 5 of the Prevention of Corruption Act (PCA) 1947. Both were also fined a total of Rs 16.4 million and as per law, a failure to pay the fines will result in additional jail time.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-suspends-green-card-lottery-after-brown-university-and-mit-shootings-suspect-s-identity-revealed-1766146383570">Trump suspends Green Card lottery after Brown University and MIT shootings suspect found to be immigrant</a><h2>‘Taking lenient view, awarding lesser punishment’</h2>&nbsp;The court said it was taking a lenient view and awarding lesser punishment considering the old age of Imran and Bushra being a female.&nbsp;&nbsp;“This court, while passing sentences, has considered the old age of Imran Ahmed Khan Niazi, as well as the fact that Bushra Imran Khan is a female. It is in consideration of both said factors that a lenient view has been taken in awarding lesser punishment,” said a report in Dawn, citing the court order.“Additionally, the benefit of Section 382-B of the CrPC has been extended to both convicts,” the judgment read.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-yunus-trying-to-bring-islamists-to-power-via-rigged-poll-threat-to-india-is-real-hasina-s-son-sajeeb-wazed-1766140132399">‘Yunus trying to bring Islamists to power via rigged poll, threat to India is real’: Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed</a>&nbsp;Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said Imran’s jail term in the case would begin after his sentence in the £190 million corruption case ended.&nbsp;Imran and Bushra Bibi were indicted in the case last year in December. Earlier this year in October, the two had denied all allegations in the case, terming it a fabricated and politically motivated attempt to disqualify Imran from politics.Imran, imprisoned since August 2023, is serving a 14-year sentence at the Adiala jail in a £190 million corruption case and also faces pending trials under the Anti-Terrorism Act related to the protests of May 9, 2023. Bushra Bibi is also serving a seven-year sentence in £190 million corruption case.&nbsp;<h2>‘Kangaroo court announced the verdict,’ says PTI</h2>&nbsp;The PTI said that Imran’s family was not allowed inside the jail, where a “kangaroo court announced the verdict of the Toshakhana 2 case”. “A closed-door jail trial is neither free nor fair; it is in fact a military trial,” the party said. It also shared a video of Imran’s sister Aleema Khan inside a car asking why she was not being allowed to proceed further.“They can’t stop us. The jail trial is today,” she said in the video, adding that it was “illegal” that the family was being stopped.Later, Aleema alleged that decisions against Imran were being delivered under a pre-written script.“Our patience and the patience of the people has run out. The people of Pakistan will not allow this to happen anymore,” she warned.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/isis-calls-bondi-beach-mass-shooting-source-of-pride-stops-short-of-claiming-responsibility-1766081485602">ISIS calls Bondi Beach mass shooting ‘source of pride,’ stops short of claiming responsibility</a><h2>‘Contempt of court, contempt of law, and contempt of justice’</h2>&nbsp;Aleema also questioned the legality of the treatment being meted out to Bushra Bibi, asking why she had been kept in what she described as illegal solitary confinement.&nbsp;The party alleged that Imran and Bushra Bibi’s lawyers were not present at the time the verdict was announced. “Neither were their families allowed to come to court, nor were basic judicial requirements fulfilled,” PTI said.“This is open contempt of court, contempt of law, and contempt of justice,” the party said.The party alleged that the courts had become an “instrument of political engineering, rather than being an independent forum”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-get-my-husband-s-friend-elected-erika-kirk-endorses-jd-vance-for-next-us-president-1766152118459">‘Get my husband’s friend elected’: Erika Kirk endorses JD Vance for next US President</a>

Imran Khan’s party said that the verdict is open contempt of court, contempt of law, and contempt of justice. It further alleged that the courts had become an instrument of political engineering, rather than being an independent forum.

A special court has sentenced Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former PM Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi to 17 years of imprisonment each in the Toshakhana 2 case. Special Judge Central Shahrukh Arjumand pronounced the verdict on Saturday after conducting 80 hearings at Rawalpindi’s Adiala jail, where Imran is incarcerated. The case involves the acquisition of an expensive Bulgari jewellery set gifted to Imran by the Saudi crown prince during an official visit in May 2021, at a throwaway price. The prosecution contended that Imran retained the jewellery set, valued at approximately Rs 80 million, after paying only Rs 2.9 million. According to the judgment, Imran and Bushra were jailed for 10 years each under sections 34 and 409 of the Pakistan Penal Code and an additional seven years’ imprisonment each under section 5 of the Prevention of Corruption Act (PCA) 1947. Both were also fined a total of Rs 16.4 million and as per law, a failure to pay the fines will result in additional jail time. Also Read: Trump suspends Green Card lottery after Brown University and MIT shootings suspect found to be immigrant ‘Taking lenient view, awarding lesser punishment’ The court said it was taking a lenient view and awarding lesser punishment considering the old age of Imran and Bushra being a female. “This court, while passing sentences, has considered the old age of Imran Ahmed Khan Niazi, as well as the fact that Bushra Imran Khan is a female. It is in consideration of both said factors that a lenient view has been taken in awarding lesser punishment,” said a report in Dawn, citing the court order. “Additionally, the benefit of Section 382-B of the CrPC has been extended to both convicts,” the judgment read. Also Read: ‘Yunus trying to bring Islamists to power via rigged poll, threat to India is real’: Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said Imran’s jail term in the case would begin after his sentence in the £190 million corruption case ended. Imran and Bushra Bibi were indicted in the case last year in December. Earlier this year in October, the two had denied all allegations in the case, terming it a fabricated and politically motivated attempt to disqualify Imran from politics. Imran, imprisoned since August 2023, is serving a 14-year sentence at the Adiala jail in a £190 million corruption case and also faces pending trials under the Anti-Terrorism Act related to the protests of May 9, 2023. Bushra Bibi is also serving a seven-year sentence in £190 million corruption case. ‘Kangaroo court announced the verdict,’ says PTI The PTI said that Imran’s family was not allowed inside the jail, where a “kangaroo court announced the verdict of the Toshakhana 2 case”. “A closed-door jail trial is neither free nor fair; it is in fact a military trial,” the party said. It also shared a video of Imran’s sister Aleema Khan inside a car asking why she was not being allowed to proceed further. “They can’t stop us. The jail trial is today,” she said in the video, adding that it was “illegal” that the family was being stopped. Later, Aleema alleged that decisions against Imran were being delivered under a pre-written script. “Our patience and the patience of the people has run out. The people of Pakistan will not allow this to happen anymore,” she warned. Also Read: ISIS calls Bondi Beach mass shooting ‘source of pride,’ stops short of claiming responsibility ‘Contempt of court, contempt of law, and contempt of justice’ Aleema also questioned the legality of the treatment being meted out to Bushra Bibi, asking why she had been kept in what she described as illegal solitary confinement. The party alleged that Imran and Bushra Bibi’s lawyers were not present at the time the verdict was announced. “Neither were their families allowed to come to court, nor were basic judicial requirements fulfilled,” PTI said. “This is open contempt of court, contempt of law, and contempt of justice,” the party said. The party alleged that the courts had become an “instrument of political engineering, rather than being an independent forum”. Also Read: ‘Get my husband’s friend elected’: Erika Kirk endorses JD Vance for next US President

Imran Khan’s party said that the verdict is open contempt of court, contempt of law, and contempt of justice. It further alleged that the courts had become an instrument of political engineering, rather than being an independent forum.

Pakistan’s ex-PM Imran Khan, wife Bushra Bibi sentenced to 17 years in Toshakhana case after trial in Adiala Jail

After months of campaigning and public pressure, the US Department of Justice (DOJ) released parts of the highly redacted Epstein Files on Friday (Dec. 20). The released chunk includes thousands of documents, photographs of the disgraced financier's long-time partner and key individual in Epstein's criminal enterprises. Notable figures like Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and former president Bill Clinton, who is featured in multiple photographs in compromising positions with victims.&nbsp;Despite a 30-day deadline, the DoJ said not all the documents will be released on Friday, and the files are heavily redacted to protect the identities of the victims. However, critics pointed out that the DoJ protected many influential individuals in the guise of protecting victims and violated the Epstein Files Transparency Act.&nbsp;A former employee of Jeffrey Epstein filed a complaint with the FBI in 1996, warning investigators about his interest in “child pornography”, nearly a decade before authorities began closely examining his predatory behaviour.<h2>FBI report surfaces after years of denial</h2>The woman, Maria Farmer, has long said that she contacted federal investigators in the summer of 1996. However, the FBI never publicly acknowledged her complaint, nor did it confirm the report to Farmer herself. As a result, some observers of the Epstein case accused her of fabricating the allegation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-lavish-lifestyle-to-threatening-victims-shocking-revelations-from-new-epstein-files-1766207867494/1766207867495">Epstein files: From lavish lifestyle to threatening victims – SHOCKING revelations</a> That changed on Friday, when thousands of Epstein-related documents were released. Among them was a handwritten FBI report confirming Farmer’s account.&nbsp;According to the complaint, Farmer had taken photographs of her two younger sisters, aged 16 and 12, for her personal artwork. In an interview, she clarified that the photographs included nude images. The FBI report states that Epstein stole the photographs and their negatives.&nbsp;The report further alleges that Epstein asked Farmer to take pictures of young girls at swimming pools. It also says he threatened to “burn her house down” if she disclosed the existence of the photographs.&nbsp;Farmer said she did not hear back from the FBI until roughly a decade later, when a broader investigation into Epstein began. That investigation ultimately led to Epstein’s controversial 2008 plea deal in Florida.&nbsp;She said that after attempting to report Epstein in 1996, she lived in fear for years, believing she had put herself in danger by speaking out.

Newly released files show that Maria Farmer, who worked for Epstein in the 1990s, urged the FBI to investigate him, but her complaint went nowhere for years.

After months of campaigning and public pressure, the US Department of Justice (DOJ) released parts of the highly redacted Epstein Files on Friday (Dec. 20). The released chunk includes thousands of documents, photographs of the disgraced financier's long-time partner and key individual in Epstein's criminal enterprises. Notable figures like Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and former president Bill Clinton, who is featured in multiple photographs in compromising positions with victims. Despite a 30-day deadline, the DoJ said not all the documents will be released on Friday, and the files are heavily redacted to protect the identities of the victims. However, critics pointed out that the DoJ protected many influential individuals in the guise of protecting victims and violated the Epstein Files Transparency Act. A former employee of Jeffrey Epstein filed a complaint with the FBI in 1996, warning investigators about his interest in “child pornography”, nearly a decade before authorities began closely examining his predatory behaviour. FBI report surfaces after years of denial The woman, Maria Farmer, has long said that she contacted federal investigators in the summer of 1996. However, the FBI never publicly acknowledged her complaint, nor did it confirm the report to Farmer herself. As a result, some observers of the Epstein case accused her of fabricating the allegation. Also Read: Epstein files: From lavish lifestyle to threatening victims – SHOCKING revelations That changed on Friday, when thousands of Epstein-related documents were released. Among them was a handwritten FBI report confirming Farmer’s account. According to the complaint, Farmer had taken photographs of her two younger sisters, aged 16 and 12, for her personal artwork. In an interview, she clarified that the photographs included nude images. The FBI report states that Epstein stole the photographs and their negatives. The report further alleges that Epstein asked Farmer to take pictures of young girls at swimming pools. It also says he threatened to “burn her house down” if she disclosed the existence of the photographs. Farmer said she did not hear back from the FBI until roughly a decade later, when a broader investigation into Epstein began. That investigation ultimately led to Epstein’s controversial 2008 plea deal in Florida. She said that after attempting to report Epstein in 1996, she lived in fear for years, believing she had put herself in danger by speaking out.

Newly released files show that Maria Farmer, who worked for Epstein in the 1990s, urged the FBI to investigate him, but her complaint went nowhere for years.

FBI could have stopped Epstein’s abuse; new release reveals 1996 child porn complaint was ignored

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Epstein Files reveal 1996 child porn complaint ignored by FBI