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<p>After a Bangladesh youth leader, Sharif Osman Hadi, succumbed to his injuries on Thursday (Dec 18), a massive protest and unrest gripped the country. Media houses, cultural centres, and even the residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman have been torched. Amid all this, recent reports revealed what Faisal Karim, the alleged shooter of Hadi, told his girlfriend before shooting. He told her 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.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brian-walshe-gets-life-in-prison-for-killing-his-wife-all-about-the-incomprehensible-murder-that-shook-america-in-2023-1766079909815">Brian Walshe gets life in prison for killing his wife. All about the ‘incomprehensible’ murder that shook America in 2023</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"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.</p><p>Faisal is married to a woman named Saheda Parvin Samia, who has been arrested along with other family members.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Hadi was the spokesperson political platform Inqilab Mancho. He was critically injured after assailants shot him in Dhaka on December 12. He was rushed to the Dhaka Medical College Hospital and was later shifted to the Evercare Hospital as his condition deteriorated.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Last week, he was airlifted for better medical treatment and was admitted to the Singapore General Hospital’s Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit. Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed his death and said in a statement, “Despite the best efforts of the doctors, Mr (Sharif Osman) Hadi succumbed to his injuries.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Singapore foreign ministry said it is assisting the Bangladesh High Commission in the country with arrangements to repatriate Hadi’s body to Bangladesh. Inqilab Mancho also announced Hadi’s death in a social media post, saying he passed away after fighting for his life for six days, as reported by the Bangladesh news channel Daily Star.</p>

Hadi was the spokesperson political platform Inqilab Mancho. He was critically injured after assailants shot him in Dhaka on December 12.

After a Bangladesh youth leader, Sharif Osman Hadi, succumbed to his injuries on Thursday (Dec 18), a massive protest and unrest gripped the country. Media houses, cultural centres, and even the residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman have been torched. Amid all this, recent reports revealed what Faisal Karim, the alleged shooter of Hadi, told his girlfriend before shooting. He told her 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. Also read: Brian Walshe gets life in prison for killing his wife. All about the ‘incomprehensible’ murder that shook America in 2023 "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. Hadi was the spokesperson political platform Inqilab Mancho. He was critically injured after assailants shot him in Dhaka on December 12. He was rushed to the Dhaka Medical College Hospital and was later shifted to the Evercare Hospital as his condition deteriorated. Last week, he was airlifted for better medical treatment and was admitted to the Singapore General Hospital’s Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit. Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed his death and said in a statement, “Despite the best efforts of the doctors, Mr (Sharif Osman) Hadi succumbed to his injuries.” The Singapore foreign ministry said it is assisting the Bangladesh High Commission in the country with arrangements to repatriate Hadi’s body to Bangladesh. Inqilab Mancho also announced Hadi’s death in a social media post, saying he passed away after fighting for his life for six days, as reported by the Bangladesh news channel Daily Star.

<p>Hadi was the spokesperson political platform Inqilab Mancho. He was critically injured after assailants shot him in Dhaka on December 12.</p>

‘Something that would shake Bangladesh’: What did Sharif Osman Hadi's ‘shooter’ say to his girlfriend before the attack

<p>On Thursday (Dec 18), Dubai's Crown Prince, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum shared a video of lightning striking Burj Khalifa. The dramatic visuals garnered a lot of eyeballs online, which captured moments when the top of the tallest building was being struck by a bolt amid a heavy rainstorm.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p><p>Sheikh Hamdan became the Crown Prince of Dubai in 2008. He is the Deputy Prime Minister and handles the portfolio of the Minister of Defence of the UAE. He is the second son of Dubai's ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Crown Prince is an adventure sport enthusiast and is quite active on his social media; his followers enjoy his online posts. The comment section of his posts are usually filled with love and appreciation. It won't be wrong to say he is often seen winning hearts, and the netizens love interacting with him.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In his posts, he is seen exhibiting his photography skills and also showing the lighter side of life. Dubai and its beauty is quite on display when you scroll through his social media account. Earlier in March, the prince was trending after he and his wife, Sheikha Sheikha bint Saeed bin Thani Al Maktoum, welcomed their fourth child. He announced the birth of his daughter on social media with a post. Sheikh Hamdan and his family named her ‘Hind’. The name drew a lot of curiosity. It was later revealed that it means abundance, and the child has been named after her grandmother, Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum.</p>

The dramatic visuals garnered a lot of eyeballs online, which captured moments when the top of the tallest building was being struck by a bolt of lightning amid a heavy rainstorm. 

On Thursday (Dec 18), Dubai's Crown Prince, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum shared a video of lightning striking Burj Khalifa. The dramatic visuals garnered a lot of eyeballs online, which captured moments when the top of the tallest building was being struck by a bolt amid a heavy rainstorm.

<p>The dramatic visuals garnered a lot of eyeballs online, which captured moments when the top of the tallest building was being struck by a bolt of lightning amid a heavy rainstorm.&nbsp;</p>

Lightning strikes world tallest Burj Khalifa, Dubai Crown Prince shares dramatic visuals - WATCH

<p>Bangladesh's interim government, headed by chief advisor Muhammad Yunus, on Friday (Dec 19) strongly condemned the lynching of a Hindu man for alleged blasphemy amid the fresh wave of protests following the death of student leader Osman Hadi. The Yunus government asserted that there is "no place for such violence in a New Bangladesh' adding that no one involved in the killings will be spared.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We wholeheartedly condemn the lynching of a Hindu man in Mymensingh. There is no space for such violence in the new Bangladesh. The perpetrators of this heinous crime will not be spared", &nbsp;the interim government said in a statement on Friday.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><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"><strong>‘Yunus trying to bring Islamists to power via rigged poll, threat to India is real’: Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Urging the citizens to remain vigilant, the government said that Bangladeshis should resist all forms of mob violence, which it said is committed by a few fringe elements “We strongly and unequivocally condemn all acts of violence, intimidation, arson, and destruction of properties.”</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Statement of the Interim Government <br><br>DHAKA, December 19: The government urges all citizens of Bangladesh to resist all forms of mob violence committed by a few fringe elements.<br> <br>We strongly and unequivocally condemn all acts of violence, intimidation, arson, and destruction of…</p>&mdash; Chief Adviser of the Government of Bangladesh (@ChiefAdviserGoB) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChiefAdviserGoB/status/2001955874567581756?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Yunus' government emphasised the significance of the upcoming elections and referendum in the country, describing it as "not merely a political exercise, but a solemn national commitment," adding, "This promise is inseparable from the dream for which Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi gave his life. Honouring his sacrifice demands restraint, responsibility, and a firm commitment to reject hatred."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The statement also expressed solidarity with journalists of The Daily Star, Prothom Alo and New Age whose offices were attacked during the recent violence. &nbsp;"To the journalists of The Daily Star, Prothom Alo, and New Age: we stand with you. We are deeply sorry for the terror and violence you have endured. The nation has witnessed your courage and tolerance in the face of terror. Attacks on journalists are attacks on truth itself. We promise you full justice."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, protests intensified following the death of Sharif Osman bin Hadi, a leader of Inqilab Moncho, spokesperson of the radical student group Inquilab Mancha, and a prominent figure in the July 2024 uprising. He died on Thursday after succumbing to gunshot injuries sustained in an attack by unidentified assailants on December 12.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As unrest spread across the country in the wake of Osman Hadi’s death, Inqilab Moncho appealed to the public to refrain from violence. The group urged people to avoid vandalism, arson, and other destructive acts that have accompanied the protests nationwide.</p>

Dipu Chandra Das, a Hindu garment factory worker, was beaten to death after being accused of blasphemy during violent protests that erupted following the death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi.

Bangladesh's interim government, headed by chief advisor Muhammad Yunus, on Friday (Dec 19) strongly condemned the lynching of a Hindu man for alleged blasphemy amid the fresh wave of protests following the death of student leader Osman Hadi. The Yunus government asserted that there is "no place for such violence in a New Bangladesh' adding that no one involved in the killings will be spared. "We wholeheartedly condemn the lynching of a Hindu man in Mymensingh. There is no space for such violence in the new Bangladesh. The perpetrators of this heinous crime will not be spared", the interim government said in a statement on Friday. Also Read: ‘Yunus trying to bring Islamists to power via rigged poll, threat to India is real’: Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed Urging the citizens to remain vigilant, the government said that Bangladeshis should resist all forms of mob violence, which it said is committed by a few fringe elements “We strongly and unequivocally condemn all acts of violence, intimidation, arson, and destruction of properties.”

<p>Dipu Chandra Das, a Hindu garment factory worker, was beaten to death after being accused of blasphemy during violent protests that erupted following the death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi.</p>

Yunus government condemns lynching of Hindu man, says violence has no place in New Bangladesh

<p>In his first remarks ahead of Bangladesh’s proposed general elections in February next year amid a ban on the Awami League, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, son and adviser of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has accused the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government in Dhaka of trying to bring Islamists to power through rigged elections. In an exclusive interview with the Indian Express, Wazed, who lives in the US, also warned that the situation in Bangladesh poses a heightened security threat to India. The Yunus-led government imposed a ban on Hasina’s Awami League that rules out the party’s participation in the February 2026 elections.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/isis-calls-bondi-beach-mass-shooting-source-of-pride-stops-short-of-claiming-responsibility-1766081485602"><strong>ISIS calls Bondi Beach mass shooting ‘source of pride,’ stops short of claiming responsibility</strong></a></p><h2>‘Yunus govt allowing free rein to Islamic parties’</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Wazed also alleged that the Yunus-led government is allowing a free rein to the Jamaat-e-Islami and other Islamic parties and is trying to ensure that they come to power through election manipulation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He also called the growing proximity between Bangladesh and Pakistan a “matter of serious concern for India.” “Bangladesh is being pushed toward a failed Islamic state,” he said in the email interview, while adding that Mohammad Yunus is trying to bring Islamists to power via rigged polls.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-biggest-strategic-challenge-since-1971-house-committee-on-india-bangladesh-ties-1766069493182"><strong>‘Biggest strategic challenge since 1971’: House committee on India-Bangladesh ties</strong></a></p><h2>‘Awami League will be back sooner or later’</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On the Awami League being banned from participating in the February general elections, Wazed said, “The party has always received about 40 per cent of the vote, almost half the population. We have hundreds of thousands of activists. You cannot wipe out the support of half the population through an order.”</p><p>“The Awami League is not going anywhere and will always be a major factor in Bangladesh. We have continued protests, and they will grow. The Awami League will be back sooner or later,” he told the Indian Express.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-conferred-oman-s-top-national-honour-delhi-muscat-sign-free-trade-agreement-1766054772351"><strong>PM Modi conferred Oman’s top national honour; Delhi, Muscat ink trade agreement</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He recalled that his mother, Sheikh Hasina, was drawn into politics after the assassination of her father and almost the entire family.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He also condemned the verdict against his mother and said it exposes the lack of democracy and rights under the Yunus regime.</p>

Sajeeb Wazed Joy, son and adviser of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, called the growing proximity between Bangladesh and Pakistan a matter of serious concern for India. Bangladesh is being pushed toward a failed Islamic state, he said in the interview.

In his first remarks ahead of Bangladesh’s proposed general elections in February next year amid a ban on the Awami League, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, son and adviser of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has accused the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government in Dhaka of trying to bring Islamists to power through rigged elections. In an exclusive interview with the Indian Express, Wazed, who lives in the US, also warned that the situation in Bangladesh poses a heightened security threat to India. The Yunus-led government imposed a ban on Hasina’s Awami League that rules out the party’s participation in the February 2026 elections. Also Read: ISIS calls Bondi Beach mass shooting ‘source of pride,’ stops short of claiming responsibility ‘Yunus govt allowing free rein to Islamic parties’ Wazed also alleged that the Yunus-led government is allowing a free rein to the Jamaat-e-Islami and other Islamic parties and is trying to ensure that they come to power through election manipulation. He also called the growing proximity between Bangladesh and Pakistan a “matter of serious concern for India.” “Bangladesh is being pushed toward a failed Islamic state,” he said in the email interview, while adding that Mohammad Yunus is trying to bring Islamists to power via rigged polls. Also Read: ‘Biggest strategic challenge since 1971’: House committee on India-Bangladesh ties ‘Awami League will be back sooner or later’ On the Awami League being banned from participating in the February general elections, Wazed said, “The party has always received about 40 per cent of the vote, almost half the population. We have hundreds of thousands of activists. You cannot wipe out the support of half the population through an order.” “The Awami League is not going anywhere and will always be a major factor in Bangladesh. We have continued protests, and they will grow. The Awami League will be back sooner or later,” he told the Indian Express. Also Read: PM Modi conferred Oman’s top national honour; Delhi, Muscat ink trade agreement He recalled that his mother, Sheikh Hasina, was drawn into politics after the assassination of her father and almost the entire family. He also condemned the verdict against his mother and said it exposes the lack of democracy and rights under the Yunus regime.

<p>Sajeeb Wazed Joy, son and adviser of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, called the growing proximity between Bangladesh and Pakistan a matter of serious concern for India. Bangladesh is being pushed toward a failed Islamic state, he said in the interview.</p>

‘Yunus trying to bring Islamists to power via rigged poll, threat to India is real’: Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed

<p>China is reportedly building one of the most fundamental components of AI computing: the lithograph machines that make advanced AI chips using Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) light source technology. According to Reuters and other reports, this high-security research initiative is taking place at a laboratory in Shenzhen. The official target for the project is 2028, and if successful, it could allow China to become self-sufficient in advanced AI semiconductor production. Here is what you should know, and why it matters.</p><h2>China’s ‘Manhattan Project’ aims to challenge Western dominance in advanced AI chips</h2><p>The project, dubbed in Western media as China’s own “Manhattan Project” in reference to the US nuclear bomb programme, is intended to enable domestic production of cutting-edge chips used in AI computing, smartphones and defence.&nbsp;</p><p>A top state priority under President Xi Jinping, the project comes amid US-led export controls on advanced chips and chipmaking equipment to China. &nbsp;Chinese technology giant Huawei is reportedly coordinating much of the supply chain for the project.</p><p>Chinese research institutions are also involved, including the Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics and Physics (CIOMP), which has contributed to optical system development.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chip-wars-bill-moved-in-us-to-ban-ai-chip-sales-to-china-over-national-security-1766129590201">Chip wars: Bill moved in US to ban AI chip sales to China over national security</a></p><h2>ASML reverse-engineering? Prototype machine is being tested</h2><p>A prototype machine was reportedly completed in early 2025 and is currently undergoing testing. Former engineers from world's top semiconductor equipment maker ASML are reportedly involved in the efforts. Lin Nan, a former head of light-source technology at the Dutch company, is among those recruited for the Chinese project, according to the reports. This has led to suggestions that the researchers are drawing on insider expertise and attempting to replicate key elements of ASML’s technology, or even reverse-engineer it.</p><p>Note that what is being tested is a light-source prototype rather than a production-ready &nbsp;EUV lithography machine. The system can generate EUV light at the required wavelength, but it has not yet been used to manufacture working chips.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-to-block-nvidia-s-sale-of-scaled-down-ai-chip-to-china-report-1762519125702/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-to-block-nvidia-s-sale-of-scaled-down-ai-chip-to-china-report-1762519125702/embed</a></p><h2>A bulky machine under heavy security</h2><p>According to Reuters, the prototype occupies almost an entire factory floor and is described by sources as bulky and inefficient compared with ASML’s commercial systems, by far the global leader in EUV lithography machines used for advanced AI chip production.</p><p>Security around the Shenzhen project is reportedly extremely tight. The facility operates with compartmentalised teams, isolated work areas, and workers using aliases or false identities to prevent information leaks.</p><h2>High payments and incentives to those who join Shenzhen project</h2><p>The importance attached to the project is reflected in unusually generous recruitment packages: very high salaries, multimillion-yuan signing bonuses, housing subsidies, and rare tolerance of dual citizenship in order to attract foreign experts and protect them from potential sanctions.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-chip-wars-of-2025-saw-firms-caught-between-policy-trump-and-china-1765872817301">YEARENDER 2025: Chip wars led to firms being caught between policy, Trump and China</a></p><h2>Major technical challenges remain</h2><p>Reuters reported that the Chinese government aims to begin producing chips using domestic EUV technology by 2028, although sources close to the project suggest that 2030 is a more realistic timeframe.</p><p>According to the report, unresolved issues include precision optics, overlay accuracy, defect control, throughput, long-term reliability, and ecosystem maturity.</p><p>China appears to have achieved in roughly six years what took ASML 18 years. But this comparison is misleading. ASML took decades to become the dominant player as it had to build ts expertise from the ground up. China, on the other hand, may be able to accelerate development by building on existing global research and using ASML designs as reference points, supported by massive state funding. It also benefits from skipping much of the foundational scientific research, supplier creation, and multiple failed generations of prototypes that ASML had to endure.</p><h2>China's advances in AI chipmaking machinery: Why this matters&nbsp;</h2><p>EUV technology enables the production of transistors thousands of times thinner than a human hair. It's behind the most advanced AI chips and accelerators designed by companies such as Nvidia and AMD and manufactured by firms like TSMC.</p><p>China has been blocked from purchasing ASML’s EUV tools, which has pushed it to pursue domestic development of these machines. The eventual aim is to reduce dependence on ASML and other foreign firms for advanced chipmaking capacity.</p>

China is secretly developing an EUV lithography system to make advanced AI chips domestically. The aim is to achieve AI chipmaking capacity by around 2028. This could challenge US export controls and ASML’s global dominance. Here is why it matters

China is reportedly building one of the most fundamental components of AI computing: the lithograph machines that make advanced AI chips using Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) light source technology. According to Reuters and other reports, this high-security research initiative is taking place at a laboratory in Shenzhen. The official target for the project is 2028, and if successful, it could allow China to become self-sufficient in advanced AI semiconductor production. Here is what you should know, and why it matters. China’s ‘Manhattan Project’ aims to challenge Western dominance in advanced AI chips The project, dubbed in Western media as China’s own “Manhattan Project” in reference to the US nuclear bomb programme, is intended to enable domestic production of cutting-edge chips used in AI computing, smartphones and defence. A top state priority under President Xi Jinping, the project comes amid US-led export controls on advanced chips and chipmaking equipment to China. Chinese technology giant Huawei is reportedly coordinating much of the supply chain for the project. Chinese research institutions are also involved, including the Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics and Physics (CIOMP), which has contributed to optical system development. Also read: Chip wars: Bill moved in US to ban AI chip sales to China over national security ASML reverse-engineering? Prototype machine is being tested A prototype machine was reportedly completed in early 2025 and is currently undergoing testing. Former engineers from world's top semiconductor equipment maker ASML are reportedly involved in the efforts. Lin Nan, a former head of light-source technology at the Dutch company, is among those recruited for the Chinese project, according to the reports. This has led to suggestions that the researchers are drawing on insider expertise and attempting to replicate key elements of ASML’s technology, or even reverse-engineer it. Note that what is being tested is a light-source prototype rather than a production-ready EUV lithography machine. The system can generate EUV light at the required wavelength, but it has not yet been used to manufacture working chips. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-to-block-nvidia-s-sale-of-scaled-down-ai-chip-to-china-report-1762519125702/embed A bulky machine under heavy security According to Reuters, the prototype occupies almost an entire factory floor and is described by sources as bulky and inefficient compared with ASML’s commercial systems, by far the global leader in EUV lithography machines used for advanced AI chip production. Security around the Shenzhen project is reportedly extremely tight. The facility operates with compartmentalised teams, isolated work areas, and workers using aliases or false identities to prevent information leaks. High payments and incentives to those who join Shenzhen project The importance attached to the project is reflected in unusually generous recruitment packages: very high salaries, multimillion-yuan signing bonuses, housing subsidies, and rare tolerance of dual citizenship in order to attract foreign experts and protect them from potential sanctions. Also read: YEARENDER 2025: Chip wars led to firms being caught between policy, Trump and China Major technical challenges remain Reuters reported that the Chinese government aims to begin producing chips using domestic EUV technology by 2028, although sources close to the project suggest that 2030 is a more realistic timeframe. According to the report, unresolved issues include precision optics, overlay accuracy, defect control, throughput, long-term reliability, and ecosystem maturity. China appears to have achieved in roughly six years what took ASML 18 years. But this comparison is misleading. ASML took decades to become the dominant player as it had to build ts expertise from the ground up. China, on the other hand, may be able to accelerate development by building on existing global research and using ASML designs as reference points, supported by massive state funding. It also benefits from skipping much of the foundational scientific research, supplier creation, and multiple failed generations of prototypes that ASML had to endure. China's advances in AI chipmaking machinery: Why this matters EUV technology enables the production of transistors thousands of times thinner than a human hair. It's behind the most advanced AI chips and accelerators designed by companies such as Nvidia and AMD and manufactured by firms like TSMC. China has been blocked from purchasing ASML’s EUV tools, which has pushed it to pursue domestic development of these machines. The eventual aim is to reduce dependence on ASML and other foreign firms for advanced chipmaking capacity.

<p>China is secretly developing an EUV lithography system to make advanced AI chips domestically. The aim is to achieve AI chipmaking capacity by around 2028. This could challenge US export controls and ASML’s global dominance. Here is why it matters</p>

China is secretly building an AI chipmaking machine in Shenzhen. How its ‘Manhattan Project’ could change the AI era

<p>Violent overnight protests sparked in Bangladesh after the death of radical youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi on Thursday (Dec 18). Thousands of people took to the streets after his death, demanding his killers’ arrest. Angry protestors set fire to several buildings in the capital, including offices of two leading newspapers, with staff trapped inside.</p><p>Protesters also blocked a major highway that connects Dhaka with other parts of the country and vandalised the home of a former minister in Chittagong in southeastern Bangladesh. The residence of Bangladesh’s first president, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the father of Sheikh Hasina, was also vandalised and set on fire by violent protesters. Meanwhile, stones were hurled at the Assistant High Commission of India and the nearby residences of officials in the port city of Chittagong.</p><h2><strong>Sharif Osman Hadi and Inqilab Mancha</strong></h2><p>Hadi, the leader of the country’s 2024 pro-democracy uprising, was a polarising figure known for his strong anti-India stance. He was shot by masked assailants while leaving a mosque in Dhaka. Hadi was airlifted to a hospital in Singapore for treatment, but succumbed to his injuries on Thursday (Dec 18).</p><p>The 32-year-old was the founder of Inqilab Mancha, a radical student group of Dhaka University that was established following the July Revolution in 2024. Inquilab Mancha describes itself as a “revolutionary cultural platform inspired by the spirit of uprising.” The group played a key role in the violent student-led protest that led to the downfall of Hasina’s government.</p><p>Hadi has made several controversial statements, including some anti-India ones, for the perceived support for Hasina, who has been hiding in India since fleeing Bangladesh after violence broke out last year. Hadi emerged as one of the key figures of the Bangladesh uprising of August 2024.</p><p>Several students who took part in the uprising were killed, while others were injured. Leaders of Inqilab Mancha blamed the Awami League for the attacks, accusing the party of carrying out secret killings.</p><p>The 2024 protests erupted after long-running resentment over a quota system that reserved 56 per cent of government positions in the country for various groups, including 30 per cent for descendants of freedom fighters who fought in the 1971 War of Independence. However, the youth population viewed the system as a barrier to highly coveted civil service positions.</p><p>Following this, the protesters demanded the immediate cancellation of the registration of the Awami League, arrests of those responsible for the killings, and ensuring the safety of all July movement participants.<br>On Friday (Dec 19), at least three cases of arson were reported in Dhaka. Buildings of newspapers, Daily Star and Prothom Alo, were targeted in the attacks. The protestors have accused the two largest papers of aligning with India, where Sheikh Hasina has been staying after her ouster.</p><p>Meanwhile, Bangladesh police have launched a manhunt for Hadi’s shooter. The authorities have released photographs of two key suspects in the killing and have offered a reward of 5 million taka (about $42,000) for any information leading to their arrest.</p>

On Friday (Dec 19), at least three cases of arson were reported in Dhaka. Buildings of newspapers, Daily Star and Prothom Alo, were targeted in the attacks. The protestors have accused the two largest papers of aligning with India, where Sheikh Hasina has been staying after her ouster.

Violent overnight protests sparked in Bangladesh after the death of radical youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi on Thursday (Dec 18). Thousands of people took to the streets after his death, demanding his killers’ arrest. Angry protestors set fire to several buildings in the capital, including offices of two leading newspapers, with staff trapped inside. Protesters also blocked a major highway that connects Dhaka with other parts of the country and vandalised the home of a former minister in Chittagong in southeastern Bangladesh. The residence of Bangladesh’s first president, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the father of Sheikh Hasina, was also vandalised and set on fire by violent protesters. Meanwhile, stones were hurled at the Assistant High Commission of India and the nearby residences of officials in the port city of Chittagong. Sharif Osman Hadi and Inqilab Mancha Hadi, the leader of the country’s 2024 pro-democracy uprising, was a polarising figure known for his strong anti-India stance. He was shot by masked assailants while leaving a mosque in Dhaka. Hadi was airlifted to a hospital in Singapore for treatment, but succumbed to his injuries on Thursday (Dec 18). The 32-year-old was the founder of Inqilab Mancha, a radical student group of Dhaka University that was established following the July Revolution in 2024. Inquilab Mancha describes itself as a “revolutionary cultural platform inspired by the spirit of uprising.” The group played a key role in the violent student-led protest that led to the downfall of Hasina’s government. Hadi has made several controversial statements, including some anti-India ones, for the perceived support for Hasina, who has been hiding in India since fleeing Bangladesh after violence broke out last year. Hadi emerged as one of the key figures of the Bangladesh uprising of August 2024. Several students who took part in the uprising were killed, while others were injured. Leaders of Inqilab Mancha blamed the Awami League for the attacks, accusing the party of carrying out secret killings. The 2024 protests erupted after long-running resentment over a quota system that reserved 56 per cent of government positions in the country for various groups, including 30 per cent for descendants of freedom fighters who fought in the 1971 War of Independence. However, the youth population viewed the system as a barrier to highly coveted civil service positions. Following this, the protesters demanded the immediate cancellation of the registration of the Awami League, arrests of those responsible for the killings, and ensuring the safety of all July movement participants. On Friday (Dec 19), at least three cases of arson were reported in Dhaka. Buildings of newspapers, Daily Star and Prothom Alo, were targeted in the attacks. The protestors have accused the two largest papers of aligning with India, where Sheikh Hasina has been staying after her ouster. Meanwhile, Bangladesh police have launched a manhunt for Hadi’s shooter. The authorities have released photographs of two key suspects in the killing and have offered a reward of 5 million taka (about $42,000) for any information leading to their arrest.

<p>On Friday (Dec 19), at least three cases of arson were reported in Dhaka. Buildings of newspapers, Daily Star and Prothom Alo, were targeted in the attacks. The protestors have accused the two largest papers of aligning with India, where Sheikh Hasina has been staying after her ouster.</p>

Who was Sharif Osman Hadi? Radical youth leader behind Inqilab Mancha – All about his ideology and movement

<p>Donald Trump was seen drooping again in the White House during the signing of an executive order to reschedule marijuana to a lower drug classification, allowing more research. California Governor Gavin Newsom mocked the US President for his untimely nap. In a social media post, Newsom's office posted comments like “NAP TIME FOR THE BIG GUY” and “SEND IN THE ADULTS!!! GRANDPA IS TIRED.” As time progresses, US President Donald Trump is turning into "Sleepy Joe”. At 79 years old, he is about the same age as Joe Biden, when that label became prominent.&nbsp;</p><p>“Is Trump finally getting the medical attention he needs?” joked Newsom's team.</p><p>This comes just after the incident when Trump dozed off in a cabinet meeting. White House Secretary Karoline Leavitt urged that the President was not sleeping; he was listening attentively.&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">NAP TIME FOR THE BIG GUY <a href="https://t.co/N2X9jkoGWm">https://t.co/N2X9jkoGWm</a></p>&mdash; Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovPressOffice/status/2001754345386471781?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Newsom pushing for Democratic Primary?</h2><p>Newsom had been trolling Trump for months, with nicknames like "Presidential Walk of Fatigue”,“Dozy Don” or “The Nodfather.” This has been the same treatment Joe Biden received at the end of his tenure. Observers point out that this is not mere trolling, as Gavin Newsom is aggressively nationalising his profile, a hint at his preparation for the 2028 Democrat Presidential primary.</p><h2>Donald Trump's cognitive decline</h2><p>There had been reports about the declining “vigour” of the 79-year-old. According to one NYT study, Trump's official appearances have decreased by 40 per cent. On Thursday, White House cancelled an event for the public signing of the National Authorisation Bill, 30 minutes after the scheduled time. He had been noticed on several occasions with bruises in his hand, which the White House explained was from constant handshakes and aspirin. Trump in November claimed that he had passed all his cognitive tests with &nbsp;“PERFECT Marks” and called the NYT reports “seditious and treasonous behaviour.”</p>

California Governor Gavin Newsom intensified attacks on US President Donald Trump after the 79-year-old appeared to doze off during an official event, reigniting debate over age, health, and leadership.

Donald Trump was seen drooping again in the White House during the signing of an executive order to reschedule marijuana to a lower drug classification, allowing more research. California Governor Gavin Newsom mocked the US President for his untimely nap. In a social media post, Newsom's office posted comments like “NAP TIME FOR THE BIG GUY” and “SEND IN THE ADULTS!!! GRANDPA IS TIRED.” As time progresses, US President Donald Trump is turning into "Sleepy Joe”. At 79 years old, he is about the same age as Joe Biden, when that label became prominent. “Is Trump finally getting the medical attention he needs?” joked Newsom's team. This comes just after the incident when Trump dozed off in a cabinet meeting. White House Secretary Karoline Leavitt urged that the President was not sleeping; he was listening attentively.

<p>California Governor Gavin Newsom intensified attacks on US President Donald Trump after the 79-year-old appeared to doze off during an official event, reigniting debate over age, health, and leadership.</p>

Donald Trump dozes off again, Gavin Newsom mocks him: ‘NAP TIME FOR THE BIG GUY’

<p>Bangladesh is again on the boil after a radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi died on Thursday (Dec 18), days after being shot by unidentified assailants. Violent protests broke out in several cities demanding his killers’ arrest. Angry protestors set fire to several buildings in the capital, including offices of two leading newspapers, with staff trapped inside.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Vandals also attacked Indian Mission in Chittagong and a young Hindu man was beaten to death and later lynched in Bhaluka Upazila of Mymensingh district over allegations of insulting Islam.</p><p>The incident was confirmed by Bhaluka Upazila Executive Officer, Md Firoz Hossain, who said that a person was killed over allegations of insulting the Prophet.</p><h2>What all happened?</h2><p>Notably, Dipu Chandra Das 30, worked at a local garment factory and lived as a tenant. He was accused of making derogatory comments about Islam and Prophet Muhammad during an event at the factory marking World Arabic Language Day.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Das's comments spread to nearby areas and an infuriated crowd beat him to death. Later the mob took the body to the Square Masterbari bus stand area, tied it to a tree with a rope, beat it amid slogans and then set it on fire.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The crowd then moved the body to the Dhaka-Mymensingh highway where again it was set ablaze, impacting traffic movement and creating panic among local residents.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“A group of agitated people caught him and beat him up around 9 pm on Thursday for insulting the Prophet. Then they set his body on fire,” Ripon Mia, duty officer of Bhaluka police station, told BBC Bangla.</p><h2>Opposition leader condemns attack</h2><p>Meanwhile, former Bangladesh Minister and Awami League leader Mohammad Ali Arafat condemned the incident, asserting that Bangladesh is steadily heading toward full-scale radicalism under the leadership of the interim government's Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus.</p>

Vandals also attacked Indian Mission in Chittagong and a young Hindu man was beaten to death and later lynched in Bhaluka Upazila of Mymensingh district. 

Bangladesh is again on the boil after a radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi died on Thursday (Dec 18), days after being shot by unidentified assailants. Violent protests broke out in several cities demanding his killers’ arrest. Angry protestors set fire to several buildings in the capital, including offices of two leading newspapers, with staff trapped inside. Vandals also attacked Indian Mission in Chittagong and a young Hindu man was beaten to death and later lynched in Bhaluka Upazila of Mymensingh district over allegations of insulting Islam. The incident was confirmed by Bhaluka Upazila Executive Officer, Md Firoz Hossain, who said that a person was killed over allegations of insulting the Prophet. What all happened? Notably, Dipu Chandra Das 30, worked at a local garment factory and lived as a tenant. He was accused of making derogatory comments about Islam and Prophet Muhammad during an event at the factory marking World Arabic Language Day. Das's comments spread to nearby areas and an infuriated crowd beat him to death. Later the mob took the body to the Square Masterbari bus stand area, tied it to a tree with a rope, beat it amid slogans and then set it on fire. The crowd then moved the body to the Dhaka-Mymensingh highway where again it was set ablaze, impacting traffic movement and creating panic among local residents. “A group of agitated people caught him and beat him up around 9 pm on Thursday for insulting the Prophet. Then they set his body on fire,” Ripon Mia, duty officer of Bhaluka police station, told BBC Bangla. Opposition leader condemns attack Meanwhile, former Bangladesh Minister and Awami League leader Mohammad Ali Arafat condemned the incident, asserting that Bangladesh is steadily heading toward full-scale radicalism under the leadership of the interim government's Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus.

<p>Vandals also attacked Indian Mission in Chittagong and a young Hindu man was beaten to death and later lynched in Bhaluka Upazila of Mymensingh district.</p>

Bangladeshi Hindu beaten to death, tied to tree, lynched and set ablaze. Dhaka condemns gruesome act amid Hadi death violence

Thousands gathered at Bondi Beach to honour victims of a deadly terror attack that killed 15 people. Swimmers formed an ocean tribute as PM Albanese announced a major gun buyback and urged candlelight vigils one week on.

Bondi Beach attack: Australia announces biggest gun buyback since 1996 as thousands hold ocean vigil

<p>Nuno Loureiro, a professor of nuclear science and engineering and of physics at MIT, was shot dead at his Boston home on Monday (December 15). The man who killed him was found dead earlier this week. No motive for the killing has been revealed by the police. However, Leah Foley, US attorney for the District of Massachusetts, said that the killer and Loureiro attended the same school in Portugal between 1995 and 2000. The suspect, Claudio Manuel Neves Valente, attended the same academic program in Portugal as the MIT professor, Foley said, adding, "My understanding is that they did know each other." Loureiro was known for his work in the field of nuclear fusion, and his work was focused on creating a virtually limitless, clean energy source.</p><h2><strong>Loureiro worked on fusion science and engineering</strong></h2><p>According to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, "his research addressed complex problems lurking at the centre of fusion vacuum chambers and at the edges of the universe."</p><p>Loureiro's work helped other scientists understand the behaviour of plasma, including turbulence, "and uncovered the physics behind astronomical phenomena like solar flares." His area of focus was fusion science and engineering, on which he started working years before joining MIT.</p><p>His research on "magnetised plasma dynamics, magnetic field amplification, and confinement and transport in fusion plasmas" played a major role in designing fusion devices, ultimately being able to "harness the energy of fusing plasmas, bringing the dream of clean, near-limitless fusion power closer to reality."&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Deepto Chakrabarty, the William A. M. Burden Professor in Astrophysics and head of the Department of Physics, said that he provided a new scientific direction with "his recent work on quantum computing algorithms for plasma physics simulations."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>At MIT, he started with trying to solve the problem of plasma turbulence, a "super-hot state of matter that serves as the fuel for fusion reactors" and "better contain the plasma to harvest electricity." Loureiro also worked on astrophysics as his work helped reveal fundamental mechanisms of the universe.&nbsp;</p>

Nuno Loureiro was a nuclear science professor at MIT. His work was focused on nuclear fusion and better containing the plasma to harvest electricity. According to MIT, his work could help produce limitless energy in a clean manner. 

Nuno Loureiro, a professor of nuclear science and engineering and of physics at MIT, was shot dead at his Boston home on Monday (December 15). The man who killed him was found dead earlier this week. No motive for the killing has been revealed by the police. However, Leah Foley, US attorney for the District of Massachusetts, said that the killer and Loureiro attended the same school in Portugal between 1995 and 2000. The suspect, Claudio Manuel Neves Valente, attended the same academic program in Portugal as the MIT professor, Foley said, adding, "My understanding is that they did know each other." Loureiro was known for his work in the field of nuclear fusion, and his work was focused on creating a virtually limitless, clean energy source. Loureiro worked on fusion science and engineering According to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, "his research addressed complex problems lurking at the centre of fusion vacuum chambers and at the edges of the universe." Loureiro's work helped other scientists understand the behaviour of plasma, including turbulence, "and uncovered the physics behind astronomical phenomena like solar flares." His area of focus was fusion science and engineering, on which he started working years before joining MIT. His research on "magnetised plasma dynamics, magnetic field amplification, and confinement and transport in fusion plasmas" played a major role in designing fusion devices, ultimately being able to "harness the energy of fusing plasmas, bringing the dream of clean, near-limitless fusion power closer to reality." Deepto Chakrabarty, the William A. M. Burden Professor in Astrophysics and head of the Department of Physics, said that he provided a new scientific direction with "his recent work on quantum computing algorithms for plasma physics simulations." At MIT, he started with trying to solve the problem of plasma turbulence, a "super-hot state of matter that serves as the fuel for fusion reactors" and "better contain the plasma to harvest electricity." Loureiro also worked on astrophysics as his work helped reveal fundamental mechanisms of the universe.

<p>Nuno Loureiro was a nuclear science professor at MIT. His work was focused on nuclear fusion and better containing the plasma to harvest electricity. According to MIT, his work could help produce limitless energy in a clean manner.&nbsp;</p>

MIT professor Nuno Loureiro was working to produce 'clean, near-limitless' energy

<p>Attorney General Pam Bondi faces an impeachment threat as the Epstein files deadline nears. Democratic Rep Ro Khanna issued an ultimatum that the failure to release the full Epstein files by the legally mandated deadline would be held in inherent contempt of Congress. The Department of Justice is expected to release the Epstein files by December 19.&nbsp;</p><p>"Three federal judges have ordered the release of all of these files in Maxwell and Epstein's grand jury. Here is the reality, any Justice Department official who does not comply with this law will be subject to prosecution for obstruction of justice. If Pam Bondi does not comply with the law, she will be held in inherent contempt of Congress or subject to impeachment. We will not rest until the law is complied with and justice is served," said Democratic Rep Ro Khanna.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tomorrow, my bill will force the Trump Administration to release the Epstein files.<br><br>Any person who attempts to conceal or scrub the files will be subject to prosecution under the law. <a href="https://t.co/K6wdxNV0kF">pic.twitter.com/K6wdxNV0kF</a></p>&mdash; Ro Khanna (@RoKhanna) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoKhanna/status/2001850917180649697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Key developments&nbsp;</h2><p>In November, the US Congress passed a law called the Epstein Files Transparency Act, with an overwhelming majority, that requires the DOJ to release the files within 30 days. Rep Ro Khanna officially introduced the House version of the bill together with Rep Thomas Massie on July 15, 2025. Attorney General Pam Bondi is tasked with the release of these unclassified Epstein-related files, but democrats fear delay or withholding of certain specifics. House Democrats have been releasing documents and images of the Epstein files, which indicate they have a contested idea of what the whole picture would appear to be. The deadline is imminent, as Bondi is drawing scrutiny from both Republicans and Democrats. The new batch of files released contains 68 images from the Epstein estate with influential figures such as Noam Chomsky, Bill Gates, and Steve Bannon, photographs, site plans for Epstein’s Caribbean property, and redacted personal documents. However, these files do not indicate any wrongdoing.&nbsp;</p>

Attorney General Pam Bondi faces impeachment threats as Democrats push the DOJ to release Epstein files before the December 19 deadline under a transparency law.

Attorney General Pam Bondi faces an impeachment threat as the Epstein files deadline nears. Democratic Rep Ro Khanna issued an ultimatum that the failure to release the full Epstein files by the legally mandated deadline would be held in inherent contempt of Congress. The Department of Justice is expected to release the Epstein files by December 19. "Three federal judges have ordered the release of all of these files in Maxwell and Epstein's grand jury. Here is the reality, any Justice Department official who does not comply with this law will be subject to prosecution for obstruction of justice. If Pam Bondi does not comply with the law, she will be held in inherent contempt of Congress or subject to impeachment. We will not rest until the law is complied with and justice is served," said Democratic Rep Ro Khanna.

<p>Attorney General Pam Bondi faces impeachment threats as Democrats push the DOJ to release Epstein files before the December 19 deadline under a transparency law.</p>

Democrats issue impeachment threat to Pam Bondi as Epstein files deadline approaches

<p>The European Union (EU) has agreed to help Ukraine with €90bn (£79bn; $105bn) loan for its military and economic needs for the next two years in its war against Russia. However the EU failed to come to a conclusion on using the frozen Russian assets to help Ukraine. The interest-free loan came after more than a day of talks at a summit in Brussels.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While making the announcement on X, EU chief Antonio Costa wrote, “We have a deal. Decision to provide 90 billion euros [$105.5bn] of support to Ukraine for 2026-27 approved. We committed, we delivered".</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the EU for the loan saying it “truly strengthens” Kyiv’s defence.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“This is significant support that truly strengthens our resilience. It is important that Russian assets remain immobilized and that Ukraine has received a financial security guarantee for the coming years,” he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sharif-osman-hadi-death-brings-bangladesh-to-the-boil-again-protests-anti-india-sentiment-yunus-address-and-other-top-developments-1766120611855">Sharif Osman Hadi death brings Bangladesh to the boil again - Protests, anti-India sentiment, Yunus address, and other top developments</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Though Zelensky had urged the EU to use the frozen Russian assets worth €200bn but Belgium, where the major bulk of the cash is held, demanded guarantees and asked countries to share liabilities, therefore, a conclusion was not reached upon.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The funding for the loan, therefore, is largely going to come from capital markets, secured against the ⁠EU budget, &nbsp;according to a draft text of the summit’s conclusions, seen by news agency Reuters.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, US and Russian officials are likely to meet in Miami his weekend to further discuss plans of ending the war, reported AFP. Russia's Kirill Dmitriev and Trump envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are likely to be the main negotiators in this meet.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On the other hand Ukrainian and US delegations will hold new talks on Friday and Saturday in the United States, as said by Zelensky</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Though Zelenskyy had urged the EU to use the frozen Russian assets but Belgium, where the major bulk of the cash is held, demanded guarantees and asked countries to share liabilities.

The European Union (EU) has agreed to help Ukraine with €90bn (£79bn; $105bn) loan for its military and economic needs for the next two years in its war against Russia. However the EU failed to come to a conclusion on using the frozen Russian assets to help Ukraine. The interest-free loan came after more than a day of talks at a summit in Brussels. While making the announcement on X, EU chief Antonio Costa wrote, “We have a deal. Decision to provide 90 billion euros [$105.5bn] of support to Ukraine for 2026-27 approved. We committed, we delivered". The Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the EU for the loan saying it “truly strengthens” Kyiv’s defence. “This is significant support that truly strengthens our resilience. It is important that Russian assets remain immobilized and that Ukraine has received a financial security guarantee for the coming years,” he added. ALSO READ: Sharif Osman Hadi death brings Bangladesh to the boil again - Protests, anti-India sentiment, Yunus address, and other top developments Though Zelensky had urged the EU to use the frozen Russian assets worth €200bn but Belgium, where the major bulk of the cash is held, demanded guarantees and asked countries to share liabilities, therefore, a conclusion was not reached upon. The funding for the loan, therefore, is largely going to come from capital markets, secured against the ⁠EU budget, according to a draft text of the summit’s conclusions, seen by news agency Reuters. Meanwhile, US and Russian officials are likely to meet in Miami his weekend to further discuss plans of ending the war, reported AFP. Russia's Kirill Dmitriev and Trump envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are likely to be the main negotiators in this meet. On the other hand Ukrainian and US delegations will hold new talks on Friday and Saturday in the United States, as said by Zelensky

<p>Though Zelenskyy had urged the EU to use the frozen Russian assets but Belgium, where the major bulk of the cash is held, demanded guarantees and asked countries to share liabilities.</p>

EU sanctions $105bn loan for Ukraine, but fails to use frozen Russian assets

<p>House Democrats on Thursday (Dec 18) moved a bill that seeks to ban the sale of advanced AI chips to China on national security grounds, marking another potential escalation in the ongoing chip war between the US and China. The bill was introduced by Representative Gregory W Meeks, the Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Here is what you should know.</p><h2>What is the US bill on banning AI chip sales to China?</h2><p>The bill is known as the RESTRICT Act, short for the Restoring Export and Security Trade Restrictions for Integrated Circuit Technologies Act. It aims to restrict the export of advanced US artificial intelligence technologies to China and other countries viewed as security risks. Joined by 13 House Democrats, Meeks presented the measure as legislation designed to protect US national security and preserve American leadership in artificial intelligence.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-chip-wars-of-2025-saw-firms-caught-between-policy-trump-and-china-1765872817301">YEARENDER 2025: Chip wars led to firms being caught between policy, Trump and China</a></p><h2>What will the RESTRICT Act prohibit if it is passed?</h2><p>The bill proposes to ban the sale of the most advanced US-made AI chips, including Nvidia’s H200, to China and other “countries of concern”, defined as nations subject to a US arms embargo as of 1 January 2025. Export licence applications for advanced integrated circuits destined for these countries would be denied by the US Department of Commerce.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-countries-dominating-semiconductor-production-in-2025-1761324120797">5 countries dominating semiconductor production in 2025</a></p><h2>Criticism of Trump’s plan to allow H200 AI chip sales to China</h2><p>While introducing the bill, Meeks criticised President Donald Trump’s decision to allow the sale of H200 chips to China, arguing that it puts national security at risk and undermines US dominance in the global AI race. He said that providing advanced AI capabilities to a ‘chief strategic competitor’ could strengthen China’s military and malign influence capabilities. Meeks added that the legislation would block such sales while supporting American companies in competing globally across the AI technology stack.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/global-chip-shortage-sparks-fears-of-economic-slowdown-1764826476498/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/global-chip-shortage-sparks-fears-of-economic-slowdown-1764826476498/embed</a></p><h2>The RESTRICT Act does not introduce new export controls</h2><p>The Act does not create new export controls but instead codifies existing restrictions on advanced integrated circuits and related products. Its stated aim is to provide clarity and consistency in export policy while reinforcing national security safeguards.&nbsp;</p><p>The bill would also establish a secure, licence-free export pathway for trusted American companies operating data centres abroad. The Commerce Department would be required to publish rules covering physical security, cyber security, remote access security and other requirements that firms must meet to qualify for licence-free transfers. Eligibility would be limited to US-owned facilities located outside countries of concern.&nbsp;</p><p>After two years, the definition of an “advanced integrated circuit or product” could be revised, provided Congress is certified that any changes would not harm US national security.</p><h2>The ongoing chip war between the US and China</h2><p>The bill comes amid an intensifying technology rivalry - known as chip war - between the US and China. The US has imposed controls on the export of advanced semiconductors, chipmaking equipment and related technologies to China, fearing that these could be used by its military &nbsp;and threaten US national security. &nbsp;In response, China introduced its own controls on critical materials like rare earth elements. China is racing to build semiconductor making capabilities domestically. There have been a series of bans, tighter regulations and policy revisions over chips in the recent years.</p>

US House Democrats have introduced the RESTRICT Act that seeks to block advanced AI chip sales, like H200, to China. Here is what the bill envisages

House Democrats on Thursday (Dec 18) moved a bill that seeks to ban the sale of advanced AI chips to China on national security grounds, marking another potential escalation in the ongoing chip war between the US and China. The bill was introduced by Representative Gregory W Meeks, the Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Here is what you should know. What is the US bill on banning AI chip sales to China? The bill is known as the RESTRICT Act, short for the Restoring Export and Security Trade Restrictions for Integrated Circuit Technologies Act. It aims to restrict the export of advanced US artificial intelligence technologies to China and other countries viewed as security risks. Joined by 13 House Democrats, Meeks presented the measure as legislation designed to protect US national security and preserve American leadership in artificial intelligence. Also read: YEARENDER 2025: Chip wars led to firms being caught between policy, Trump and China What will the RESTRICT Act prohibit if it is passed? The bill proposes to ban the sale of the most advanced US-made AI chips, including Nvidia’s H200, to China and other “countries of concern”, defined as nations subject to a US arms embargo as of 1 January 2025. Export licence applications for advanced integrated circuits destined for these countries would be denied by the US Department of Commerce. Also read: 5 countries dominating semiconductor production in 2025 Criticism of Trump’s plan to allow H200 AI chip sales to China While introducing the bill, Meeks criticised President Donald Trump’s decision to allow the sale of H200 chips to China, arguing that it puts national security at risk and undermines US dominance in the global AI race. He said that providing advanced AI capabilities to a ‘chief strategic competitor’ could strengthen China’s military and malign influence capabilities. Meeks added that the legislation would block such sales while supporting American companies in competing globally across the AI technology stack. https://www.wionews.com/videos/global-chip-shortage-sparks-fears-of-economic-slowdown-1764826476498/embed The RESTRICT Act does not introduce new export controls The Act does not create new export controls but instead codifies existing restrictions on advanced integrated circuits and related products. Its stated aim is to provide clarity and consistency in export policy while reinforcing national security safeguards. The bill would also establish a secure, licence-free export pathway for trusted American companies operating data centres abroad. The Commerce Department would be required to publish rules covering physical security, cyber security, remote access security and other requirements that firms must meet to qualify for licence-free transfers. Eligibility would be limited to US-owned facilities located outside countries of concern. After two years, the definition of an “advanced integrated circuit or product” could be revised, provided Congress is certified that any changes would not harm US national security. The ongoing chip war between the US and China The bill comes amid an intensifying technology rivalry - known as chip war - between the US and China. The US has imposed controls on the export of advanced semiconductors, chipmaking equipment and related technologies to China, fearing that these could be used by its military and threaten US national security. In response, China introduced its own controls on critical materials like rare earth elements. China is racing to build semiconductor making capabilities domestically. There have been a series of bans, tighter regulations and policy revisions over chips in the recent years.

<p>US House Democrats have introduced the RESTRICT Act that seeks to block advanced AI chip sales, like H200, to China. Here is what the bill envisages</p>

Chip wars: Bill moved in US to ban AI chip sales to China over national security

<p>TikTok on Thursday (Dec 18) announced that it has signed a joint venture deal with inventors to avoid a ban threatened by US President Donald Trump over its Chinese ownership. According to an internal memo, the company’s CEO Shou Chew told employees that the social media company and its Chinese owner ByteDance had agreed to the new entity, with Oracle, Silver Lake and Abu Dhabi-based MGX on board as major investors, reported AFP.</p><p>Oracle's executive chairman and founder Larry Ellison is a longtime ally of US President Donald Trump.</p><p>"The US joint venture will be responsible for US data protection, algorithm security, content moderation, and software assurance," Chew said in the memo.</p><p>"It will also have the exclusive right and authority to provide assurances that content, software, and data for American users is secure."</p><p>Chew told staff that half the US venture will be held by a consortium of new investors including Oracle, Silver Lake and MGX - which will have 15 per cent each.</p><p>Affiliates of existing ByteDance investors will own a touch over 30 per cent of the venture, with ByteDance retaining just shy of 20 per cent - the maximum ownership allowed to a Chinese company under the terms of the law.</p><p>TikTok Global's US entities will manage global product interoperability, and certain commercial activities, including e-commerce, advertising, and marketing, according to the memo.</p><p>Chew noted that there is more work to be done ahead of the January 22 closing date for the deal.</p><h2><strong>Ellison amassing media?</strong></h2><p>The new set-up for TikTok is in response to a law passed under Trump's predecessor, Joe Biden, that has forced ByteDance to sell TikTok's US operations or face a ban in its biggest market.</p><p>US policymakers, including Trump in his first presidency, have warned that China could use TikTok to mine data from Americans or exert influence through its state-of-the-art algorithm.</p><p>Trump has repeatedly delayed enforcement through successive executive orders, most recently extending the deadline into January.</p><p>The deal largely confirms a September announcement by the White House that said a new venture had been agreed with China and would meet the requirements of the 2024 law.</p><p>"If I could make it 100 per cent MAGA I would, but it's not going to work out that way unfortunately," Trump told reporters after the TikTok announcement in September.</p><p>The memo was the first indication that TikTok had signed onto the deal announced by the Trump administration and would have required the approval of the Chinese government to proceed.</p><p>Trump in September had specifically named Oracle boss Ellison, one of the world's richest men, as a major player in the arrangement.</p><p>Ellison has returned to the spotlight through his dealings with Trump, who has brought his old friend into major AI partnerships with OpenAI.</p><p>Ellison has also financed his son David's recent takeover of Paramount and is involved in his son's bidding war with Netflix to take over Warner Bros.</p><p><i>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</i></p>

TikTok Global's US entities will manage global product interoperability, and certain commercial activities, including e-commerce, advertising, and marketing, according to the memo.

TikTok on Thursday (Dec 18) announced that it has signed a joint venture deal with inventors to avoid a ban threatened by US President Donald Trump over its Chinese ownership. According to an internal memo, the company’s CEO Shou Chew told employees that the social media company and its Chinese owner ByteDance had agreed to the new entity, with Oracle, Silver Lake and Abu Dhabi-based MGX on board as major investors, reported AFP. Oracle's executive chairman and founder Larry Ellison is a longtime ally of US President Donald Trump. "The US joint venture will be responsible for US data protection, algorithm security, content moderation, and software assurance," Chew said in the memo. "It will also have the exclusive right and authority to provide assurances that content, software, and data for American users is secure." Chew told staff that half the US venture will be held by a consortium of new investors including Oracle, Silver Lake and MGX - which will have 15 per cent each. Affiliates of existing ByteDance investors will own a touch over 30 per cent of the venture, with ByteDance retaining just shy of 20 per cent - the maximum ownership allowed to a Chinese company under the terms of the law. TikTok Global's US entities will manage global product interoperability, and certain commercial activities, including e-commerce, advertising, and marketing, according to the memo. Chew noted that there is more work to be done ahead of the January 22 closing date for the deal. Ellison amassing media? The new set-up for TikTok is in response to a law passed under Trump's predecessor, Joe Biden, that has forced ByteDance to sell TikTok's US operations or face a ban in its biggest market. US policymakers, including Trump in his first presidency, have warned that China could use TikTok to mine data from Americans or exert influence through its state-of-the-art algorithm. Trump has repeatedly delayed enforcement through successive executive orders, most recently extending the deadline into January. The deal largely confirms a September announcement by the White House that said a new venture had been agreed with China and would meet the requirements of the 2024 law. "If I could make it 100 per cent MAGA I would, but it's not going to work out that way unfortunately," Trump told reporters after the TikTok announcement in September. The memo was the first indication that TikTok had signed onto the deal announced by the Trump administration and would have required the approval of the Chinese government to proceed. Trump in September had specifically named Oracle boss Ellison, one of the world's richest men, as a major player in the arrangement. Ellison has returned to the spotlight through his dealings with Trump, who has brought his old friend into major AI partnerships with OpenAI. Ellison has also financed his son David's recent takeover of Paramount and is involved in his son's bidding war with Netflix to take over Warner Bros. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

<p>TikTok Global's US entities will manage global product interoperability, and certain commercial activities, including e-commerce, advertising, and marketing, according to the memo.</p>

TikTok signs joint venture deal to avoid Trump’s ban threat in US

<p>The death of radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi on Thursday (Dec 18), days after being shot by unidentified assailants, has sparked overnight protests in Bangladesh, with rampaging violent mobs attacking the Indian High Commission, media houses and the party offices of the Awami League (AL). A year after AL leader and former prime minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted and fled to India, Hadi was campaigning to fight the elections as an independent candidate. Bangladesh interim government chief Muhammad Yunus promised to bring to justice those behind his killing. There is no proof linking the AL or India to the killing but the anti-India sentiment is rising. Here are the top developments:</p><h2>Who was Sharif Osman Hadi, and how did he die?</h2><p>Sharif Osman Hadi was a 32-year-old leader of Inqilab Mancha, a radical student group of Dhaka University at the forefront of the violent student-led street protests that led to the downfall of Hasina’s government. In his rousing speeches, he had made several provocative statements, including some that targeted India for the perceived support of the Hasina regime. Along with other youth leaders, Hadi emerged as a face of the Bangladesh uprising of August 2024.</p><p>On December 12, Hadi was shot in the head by masked attackers in Dhaka while leaving a mosque during his election campaign as an independent candidate for the Dhaka-8 constituency for the general elections scheduled for next February. He was airlifted to Singapore on December 15 for advanced treatment, having sustained injuries and brain stem damage. He died at the Singapore General Hospital’s neurosurgical ICU on Thursday (Dec 18) in Singapore.</p><h2>Who killed Sharif Osman Hadi?</h2><p>A manhunt was launched by police, who released the names of two key suspects.One of them is Foysal Karim Masud, whose family members were arrested. Police also offered a reward of 5 million taka (around $42,000) for any information leading to the apprehension of the suspects. At least 20 people have been held so far. The investigation is continuing.</p><p>Immediately after the shooting, unfounded allegations were made against the Awami League and India, with the killing seen in Bangladesh as politically motivated to destabilise the country ahead of the elections.</p><p>Hadi was known for his anti-India rhetoric, having threatened to join India’s north-eastern states with Bangladesh. His supporters are alleging, without proof, that some suspects have fled to India and are demanding their extradition.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-violence-protesters-set-fire-to-major-media-offices-after-youth-leader-s-death-1766113879433">Bangladesh violence: Protesters set fire to major media offices after youth leader’s death | WATCH</a></p><h2>Indian diplomatic missions targeted in Hadi death protests</h2><p>Since the news of Hadi’s death, protesters took to the streets, attacking government property and media houses, including the offices of prominent newspapers like The Daily Star and Prothom Alo. Some journalists were reportedly trapped during the attacks on the media houses.</p><p>India’s High Commission in Dhaka and the diplomatic mission in Chattogram were also targeted, according to reports. Some in the crowds were seen chanting anti-India slogans and accusing authorities of failing to protect Hadi.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-violence-angry-protesters-target-indian-mission-in-chittagong-after-sharif-osman-hadi-s-death-1766116747294">Bangladesh protest: Vandals attack Indian Mission in Chittagong after Sharif Osman Hadi’s Death</a></p><p>The offices of the Awami League and several cultural institutions were attacked, with student groups from Dhaka University and other institutions joining the rallies.</p><p>The protesters are demanding justice and the resignation of the home affairs adviser&nbsp;</p><p>Inqilab Mancha declared Hadi a “martyr in the struggle against Indian hegemony”. While calling for calm, groups like the National Citizen Party (NCP) and others urged unity against “fascist forces”.</p><h2>What did Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus say?</h2><p>In a televised address on Thursday night, the interim government’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus called Hadi’s death an “irreparable loss to the nation’s political and democratic sphere”.</p><p>He described the attack on Hadi as a premeditated effort by a “powerful network” to derail democracy and elections.</p><p>Yunus also promised a transparent investigation with “no leniency” towards perpetrators. He urged calm and restraint, and asked people to allow law enforcement agencies to do their work.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-violence-erupts-after-uprising-leader-osman-hadi-s-death-1766113429184/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-violence-erupts-after-uprising-leader-osman-hadi-s-death-1766113429184/embed</a></p><h2>Bangladesh mourns Hadi as questions are raised on free and fair elections</h2><p>The government has declared a day of state mourning on Friday (Dec 19). &nbsp;National flags will be flown at half-mast, and special prayers will be held nationwide to honour Hadi and in support of his family.&nbsp;</p><p>The situation in the South Asian nation remains tense, bringing into doubt whether the interim government can ensure a violence-free and fair election, the first since the 2024 uprising, in February</p>

The death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi has led to violent protests across Bangladesh. Indian diplomatic missions, media houses and Awami League offices are being targeted. 

The death of radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi on Thursday (Dec 18), days after being shot by unidentified assailants, has sparked overnight protests in Bangladesh, with rampaging violent mobs attacking the Indian High Commission, media houses and the party offices of the Awami League (AL). A year after AL leader and former prime minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted and fled to India, Hadi was campaigning to fight the elections as an independent candidate. Bangladesh interim government chief Muhammad Yunus promised to bring to justice those behind his killing. There is no proof linking the AL or India to the killing but the anti-India sentiment is rising. Here are the top developments: Who was Sharif Osman Hadi, and how did he die? Sharif Osman Hadi was a 32-year-old leader of Inqilab Mancha, a radical student group of Dhaka University at the forefront of the violent student-led street protests that led to the downfall of Hasina’s government. In his rousing speeches, he had made several provocative statements, including some that targeted India for the perceived support of the Hasina regime. Along with other youth leaders, Hadi emerged as a face of the Bangladesh uprising of August 2024. On December 12, Hadi was shot in the head by masked attackers in Dhaka while leaving a mosque during his election campaign as an independent candidate for the Dhaka-8 constituency for the general elections scheduled for next February. He was airlifted to Singapore on December 15 for advanced treatment, having sustained injuries and brain stem damage. He died at the Singapore General Hospital’s neurosurgical ICU on Thursday (Dec 18) in Singapore. Who killed Sharif Osman Hadi? A manhunt was launched by police, who released the names of two key suspects.One of them is Foysal Karim Masud, whose family members were arrested. Police also offered a reward of 5 million taka (around $42,000) for any information leading to the apprehension of the suspects. At least 20 people have been held so far. The investigation is continuing. Immediately after the shooting, unfounded allegations were made against the Awami League and India, with the killing seen in Bangladesh as politically motivated to destabilise the country ahead of the elections. Hadi was known for his anti-India rhetoric, having threatened to join India’s north-eastern states with Bangladesh. His supporters are alleging, without proof, that some suspects have fled to India and are demanding their extradition. Also read: Bangladesh violence: Protesters set fire to major media offices after youth leader’s death | WATCH Indian diplomatic missions targeted in Hadi death protests Since the news of Hadi’s death, protesters took to the streets, attacking government property and media houses, including the offices of prominent newspapers like The Daily Star and Prothom Alo. Some journalists were reportedly trapped during the attacks on the media houses. India’s High Commission in Dhaka and the diplomatic mission in Chattogram were also targeted, according to reports. Some in the crowds were seen chanting anti-India slogans and accusing authorities of failing to protect Hadi. Also read: Bangladesh protest: Vandals attack Indian Mission in Chittagong after Sharif Osman Hadi’s Death The offices of the Awami League and several cultural institutions were attacked, with student groups from Dhaka University and other institutions joining the rallies. The protesters are demanding justice and the resignation of the home affairs adviser Inqilab Mancha declared Hadi a “martyr in the struggle against Indian hegemony”. While calling for calm, groups like the National Citizen Party (NCP) and others urged unity against “fascist forces”. What did Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus say? In a televised address on Thursday night, the interim government’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus called Hadi’s death an “irreparable loss to the nation’s political and democratic sphere”. He described the attack on Hadi as a premeditated effort by a “powerful network” to derail democracy and elections. Yunus also promised a transparent investigation with “no leniency” towards perpetrators. He urged calm and restraint, and asked people to allow law enforcement agencies to do their work. https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-violence-erupts-after-uprising-leader-osman-hadi-s-death-1766113429184/embed Bangladesh mourns Hadi as questions are raised on free and fair elections The government has declared a day of state mourning on Friday (Dec 19). National flags will be flown at half-mast, and special prayers will be held nationwide to honour Hadi and in support of his family. The situation in the South Asian nation remains tense, bringing into doubt whether the interim government can ensure a violence-free and fair election, the first since the 2024 uprising, in February

<p>The death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi has led to violent protests across Bangladesh. Indian diplomatic missions, media houses and Awami League offices are being targeted.&nbsp;</p>

Sharif Osman Hadi death brings Bangladesh to the boil again - Protests, anti-India sentiment, Yunus address, and other top developments

<p>Former US Vice President Kamala Harris, on the Jimmy Kimmel show, discusses the circumstances that led to former President Joe Biden not pushing for the release of Epstein files. Harris admitted that it did damage the reputation of the Biden administration, but still, Joe Biden didn't want to pursue political ambition by pressuring the Department of Justice. However, both President Donald Trump and former President Bill Clinton of the Democratic Party appeared on multiple occasions with the disgraced sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. Both of them have claimed their innocence.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“To give you an answer that will not satisfy your curiosity, we - perhaps to our damage - but we strongly, and rightly, believed that there should be an absolute separation between what we wanted as an administration and what the Department of Justice did,” said Kamla Harris.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Harris contrasts Biden’s DOJ approach with Trump’s</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Kimmel asked Harris if she believed the Trump administration would release the Epstein files. She said that it was imperative for Donald Trump, who ran a campaign on the Epstein files, to deliver on his promise. But she also asserted that Trump was weaponising the Department of Justice and using it for his own vendetta, which the Biden administration never did.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“What he has done to treat the Department of Justice as his personal law firm is criminal in proportion to what it’s supposed to be, and that it’s supposed to be an independent body that does justice, blindfolded in terms of for whom but for the country they’re supposed to operate without favour or fear,” Harris replied.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“So I don’t know that they are going to do what they’re saying they’re going to do, which is release all of the documents that the American people have a right to see", said Harris.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The deadline to release the trove of Epstein files is set for Friday, December 19, under the bill, titled the Epstein Files Transparency Act, passed 427-1, only redacting evidence that reveals victim identity or interferes with the federal investigation. It remains to be seen whether the Trump administration will deliver on its promise.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Kamala Harris says Joe Biden avoided pressuring the DOJ to release Epstein files, citing institutional independence, while questioning Trump’s pledge.

Former US Vice President Kamala Harris, on the Jimmy Kimmel show, discusses the circumstances that led to former President Joe Biden not pushing for the release of Epstein files. Harris admitted that it did damage the reputation of the Biden administration, but still, Joe Biden didn't want to pursue political ambition by pressuring the Department of Justice. However, both President Donald Trump and former President Bill Clinton of the Democratic Party appeared on multiple occasions with the disgraced sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. Both of them have claimed their innocence. “To give you an answer that will not satisfy your curiosity, we - perhaps to our damage - but we strongly, and rightly, believed that there should be an absolute separation between what we wanted as an administration and what the Department of Justice did,” said Kamla Harris. Harris contrasts Biden’s DOJ approach with Trump’s Kimmel asked Harris if she believed the Trump administration would release the Epstein files. She said that it was imperative for Donald Trump, who ran a campaign on the Epstein files, to deliver on his promise. But she also asserted that Trump was weaponising the Department of Justice and using it for his own vendetta, which the Biden administration never did. “What he has done to treat the Department of Justice as his personal law firm is criminal in proportion to what it’s supposed to be, and that it’s supposed to be an independent body that does justice, blindfolded in terms of for whom but for the country they’re supposed to operate without favour or fear,” Harris replied. “So I don’t know that they are going to do what they’re saying they’re going to do, which is release all of the documents that the American people have a right to see", said Harris. The deadline to release the trove of Epstein files is set for Friday, December 19, under the bill, titled the Epstein Files Transparency Act, passed 427-1, only redacting evidence that reveals victim identity or interferes with the federal investigation. It remains to be seen whether the Trump administration will deliver on its promise.

<p>Kamala Harris says Joe Biden avoided pressuring the DOJ to release Epstein files, citing institutional independence, while questioning Trump’s pledge.</p>

Kamala Harris says Biden took political hit by refusing to push Epstein files release

<p>The person who carried out a mass shooting at the Brown University campus on December 13 was found dead in a storage unit in Salem, New Hampshire. The same man, Claudio Manuel Neves Valente, has also been named as the person who killed MIT nuclear science professor, Nuno Loureiro, at his Boston suburb home. Loureiro was targeted two days after the Brown shooting in Rhode Island. There were rumours that the two incidents could be linked. However, the police and the FBI denied at the time that they were connected. But on Thursday, federal prosecutors confirmed that Valente is the one who also shot the MIT professor. The shooter and Loureiro apparently share a common connection from years ago.</p><h2><strong>How were the Brown shooter and Loureiro connected?</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Leah Foley, US attorney for the District of Massachusetts, announced at a news conference on Thursday that the 47-year-old professor and the 48-year-old shooter attended the same school in Portugal between 1995 and 2000. She also said that they both likely met and knew each other 30 years ago. "My understanding is that they did know each other," Foley said of the suspect and Loureiro. They were both natives of Portugal. The suspect studied in Brown's physics PhD program but dropped out, while Loureiro became a renowned researcher. The nuclear science professor's bio on the MIT website also mentions that he “majored in Physics at Instituto Superior Técnico in Lisbon (Portugal) in 2000."&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/who-is-nuno-fg-loureiro-mit-nuclear-science-professor-killed-two-days-after-brown-university-shooting-1766030650276"><strong>Who is Nuno Loureiro, the MIT professor who was killed at his home, as Israel alleges Iran links?</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Who is Nuno Loureiro, MIT professor killed by Brown shooter?</strong></h2><p><br>Loureiro was a leading researcher in energy and nuclear physics and specialised in nuclear science, engineering and physics. Reports suggest that he was at the forefront of developing future nuclear technologies. The &nbsp;"brilliant" professor was the director of MIT's Plasma Science and Fusion Center and was named for the position only last year. Meanwhile, Israel alleged that the person who shot the leading nuclear fusion researcher had links with Iran. However, this remains a claim, and US authorities have not said anything about it.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Loureiro was gunned down at his Brookline home in suburban Boston on Monday night. He was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries. He is survived by his wife and three children.</p><h2><strong>Brown shooter acted alone</strong></h2><p>Officials are still unsure why the shooter targeted Brown and Loureiro. "I don't think we have any idea why now, or why — why Brown? Why these students? Why this classroom? That is really unknown to us," Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha. He is sure that Valente acted alone, and there is no other person involved in the shootings. "We are 100 per cent confident that this is our target, and that this case is closed from a perspective of pursuing people involved," Neronha said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

MIT nuclear science professor Nuno Loureiro was also killed by the Brown shooter, Massachusetts officials confirmed on Thursday. Claudio Manuel Neves Valente was found dead and carried out both the shootings. Authorities say that they studied at the same school years ago.

The person who carried out a mass shooting at the Brown University campus on December 13 was found dead in a storage unit in Salem, New Hampshire. The same man, Claudio Manuel Neves Valente, has also been named as the person who killed MIT nuclear science professor, Nuno Loureiro, at his Boston suburb home. Loureiro was targeted two days after the Brown shooting in Rhode Island. There were rumours that the two incidents could be linked. However, the police and the FBI denied at the time that they were connected. But on Thursday, federal prosecutors confirmed that Valente is the one who also shot the MIT professor. The shooter and Loureiro apparently share a common connection from years ago. How were the Brown shooter and Loureiro connected? Leah Foley, US attorney for the District of Massachusetts, announced at a news conference on Thursday that the 47-year-old professor and the 48-year-old shooter attended the same school in Portugal between 1995 and 2000. She also said that they both likely met and knew each other 30 years ago. "My understanding is that they did know each other," Foley said of the suspect and Loureiro. They were both natives of Portugal. The suspect studied in Brown's physics PhD program but dropped out, while Loureiro became a renowned researcher. The nuclear science professor's bio on the MIT website also mentions that he “majored in Physics at Instituto Superior Técnico in Lisbon (Portugal) in 2000." Also Read: Who is Nuno Loureiro, the MIT professor who was killed at his home, as Israel alleges Iran links? Who is Nuno Loureiro, MIT professor killed by Brown shooter? Loureiro was a leading researcher in energy and nuclear physics and specialised in nuclear science, engineering and physics. Reports suggest that he was at the forefront of developing future nuclear technologies. The "brilliant" professor was the director of MIT's Plasma Science and Fusion Center and was named for the position only last year. Meanwhile, Israel alleged that the person who shot the leading nuclear fusion researcher had links with Iran. However, this remains a claim, and US authorities have not said anything about it. Loureiro was gunned down at his Brookline home in suburban Boston on Monday night. He was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries. He is survived by his wife and three children. Brown shooter acted alone Officials are still unsure why the shooter targeted Brown and Loureiro. "I don't think we have any idea why now, or why — why Brown? Why these students? Why this classroom? That is really unknown to us," Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha. He is sure that Valente acted alone, and there is no other person involved in the shootings. "We are 100 per cent confident that this is our target, and that this case is closed from a perspective of pursuing people involved," Neronha said.

<p>MIT nuclear science professor Nuno Loureiro was also killed by the Brown shooter, Massachusetts officials confirmed on Thursday. Claudio Manuel Neves Valente was found dead and carried out both the shootings. Authorities say that they studied at the same school years ago.</p>

Brown University shooter and MIT professor Nuno Loureiro knew each other from Portugal, officials say

<p>On Thursday (Dec 19), investigators in the Brown University shooting held a press conference that proved itself to be a treasure trove of shocking revelations. The presser happened after the shooter, identified as 48-year-old Claudio Nevez Valenti, was found dead. Investigators believe he died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. These are the five biggest, most shocking revelations made by officials today.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brown-university-shooting-suspect-claudio-nevez-valenti-murdered-mit-proffesor-nuno-loureiro-in-boston-reveal-officials-1766114270132"><strong>Brown Uni shooting suspect tied to murder of MIT professor Nuno Loureiro</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Found dead after 6 days-long manhunt</strong></h2><p>The shooter was found dead inside a storage unit in Salem, New Hampshire. According to the timeline shared by the police, he carried out a mass shooting&nbsp;at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, on Dec 13, 2025, killing two students and injuring nine others. Two days later, he committed a murder in Brookline, Massachusetts. Six days after the Brown shooting, on Dec 18, 2025, they found him dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound inside a storage unit in Salem, New Hampshire.&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Brown Uni shooter killed MIT professor in Boston</strong></h2><p>The biggest revelation made at the press conference was the link between the Ivy League university shooting and the murder of a MIT professor in Boston. The shocking development comes after the Rhode Island police on Tuesday (Dec 16) said that the two high-profile crimes that have rattled academic communities across New England were unrelated.</p><p>Nuno Loureiro, a prominent MIT physicist, was shot in his home earlier this week. Loureiro, 47, was also from Portugal, a coincidence investigators have flagged as potentially significant. Loureiro, a celebrated fusion scientist, was found critically wounded at his home in Brookline, Massachusetts, after police responded to reports of a shooting late Monday (Dec 15) night. He was rushed to the hospital but died the following morning.&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking at a press conference in Boston, Leah Foley, the US attorney in Massachusetts, said that Nevez Valenti and Loureiro attended the same academic program in Portugal. They both studied Physics there, and Loureiro went on to teach the subject at MIT.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brown-university-shooting-suspect-claudio-nevez-valenti-murdered-mit-proffesor-nuno-loureiro-in-boston-reveal-officials-1766114270132"><strong>Brown University shooting suspect Claudio Nevez Valenti murdered MIT professor Nuno Loureiro, officials reveal</strong></a></p><h2><strong>How Nevez Valenti escaped police for six days</strong></h2><p>Officials say that Claudio Nevez Valenti was "sophisticated in hiding his tracks". Leah B Foley, the state attorney representing Massachusetts, said that he "was using a phone that was obfuscated the ability to track it".&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>How were the two cases linked?</strong></h2><p>At Brown University, the suspect's rented car was identified via CCTV footage and was also identified by a witness. The same car was spotted near the scene of the professor's shooting in Brookline, Massachusetts.</p><p>Also read | <strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brown-university-shooting-suspect-claudio-nevez-valenti-murdered-mit-proffesor-nuno-loureiro-in-boston-reveal-officials-1766114270132"><strong>Brown University shooting suspect Claudio Nevez Valenti murdered MIT professor Nuno Loureiro, officials reveal</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Targeted or random attacks?</strong></h2><p>As mentioned above, police have established links between the alleged shooter, Claudio Nevez Valenti and MIT professor Nuno Loureiro. However, they were unable to identify any links between the shooter and the two victims of the Brown University shooting - Ella Cook and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Brown University shooting: A police briefing has revealed explosive new details about the Ivy League shooting. Here are the 5 most shocking revelations.

On Thursday (Dec 19), investigators in the Brown University shooting held a press conference that proved itself to be a treasure trove of shocking revelations. The presser happened after the shooter, identified as 48-year-old Claudio Nevez Valenti, was found dead. Investigators believe he died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. These are the five biggest, most shocking revelations made by officials today. Also read | Brown Uni shooting suspect tied to murder of MIT professor Nuno Loureiro Found dead after 6 days-long manhunt The shooter was found dead inside a storage unit in Salem, New Hampshire. According to the timeline shared by the police, he carried out a mass shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, on Dec 13, 2025, killing two students and injuring nine others. Two days later, he committed a murder in Brookline, Massachusetts. Six days after the Brown shooting, on Dec 18, 2025, they found him dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound inside a storage unit in Salem, New Hampshire. Brown Uni shooter killed MIT professor in Boston The biggest revelation made at the press conference was the link between the Ivy League university shooting and the murder of a MIT professor in Boston. The shocking development comes after the Rhode Island police on Tuesday (Dec 16) said that the two high-profile crimes that have rattled academic communities across New England were unrelated. Nuno Loureiro, a prominent MIT physicist, was shot in his home earlier this week. Loureiro, 47, was also from Portugal, a coincidence investigators have flagged as potentially significant. Loureiro, a celebrated fusion scientist, was found critically wounded at his home in Brookline, Massachusetts, after police responded to reports of a shooting late Monday (Dec 15) night. He was rushed to the hospital but died the following morning. Speaking at a press conference in Boston, Leah Foley, the US attorney in Massachusetts, said that Nevez Valenti and Loureiro attended the same academic program in Portugal. They both studied Physics there, and Loureiro went on to teach the subject at MIT. Also read | Brown University shooting suspect Claudio Nevez Valenti murdered MIT professor Nuno Loureiro, officials reveal How Nevez Valenti escaped police for six days Officials say that Claudio Nevez Valenti was "sophisticated in hiding his tracks". Leah B Foley, the state attorney representing Massachusetts, said that he "was using a phone that was obfuscated the ability to track it". How were the two cases linked? At Brown University, the suspect's rented car was identified via CCTV footage and was also identified by a witness. The same car was spotted near the scene of the professor's shooting in Brookline, Massachusetts. Also read | Also read | Brown University shooting suspect Claudio Nevez Valenti murdered MIT professor Nuno Loureiro, officials reveal Targeted or random attacks? As mentioned above, police have established links between the alleged shooter, Claudio Nevez Valenti and MIT professor Nuno Loureiro. However, they were unable to identify any links between the shooter and the two victims of the Brown University shooting - Ella Cook and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov.

<p>Brown University shooting: A police briefing has revealed explosive new details about the Ivy League shooting. Here are the 5 most shocking revelations.</p>

5 Shocking revelations from Brown University shooting press conference

<p>The US military on Thursday (Dec 18) said that it struck two more alleged drug vessels in the Pacific Ocean, killing five. The death toll amid US President Donald Trump’s campaign against drug trafficking has risen to over 100 with the recent strike. The attacks were carried out under the direction of Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, the US Southern Command said in a social media post, sharing the footage from the latest “lethal kinetic strikes” by Joint Task Force Southern Spear.</p><p>“On Dec. 18, at the direction of @SecWar Pete Hegseth, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted lethal kinetic strikes on two vessels operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations in international waters. Intelligence confirmed that the vessels were transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and were engaged in narco-trafficking operations. A total of five male narco-terrorists were killed during these actions - three in the first vessel and two in the second vessel. No U.S. military forces were harmed,” the US Southern Command wrote on X.</p><p>According to an AFP tally, 104 people have been killed in US strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean since September. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has provided no evidence, as critics question the legality of US military operations in international waters.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">On Dec. 18, at the direction of <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecWar</a> Pete Hegseth, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted lethal kinetic strikes on two vessels operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations in international waters. Intelligence confirmed that the vessels were transiting along known… <a href="https://t.co/CcCyOgYRto">pic.twitter.com/CcCyOgYRto</a></p>&mdash; U.S. Southern Command (@Southcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/Southcom/status/2001840669313135099?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>A day earlier, US military announced another strike at a ‘narco-trafficking’ vessel. In a statement, the US military said that the latest Operation Southern Spear strike has killed 4 people.&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Trump says he doesn’t have to tell Congress about strikes on Venezuela</strong></h2><p>Meanwhile, Trump said on Thursday that he does not need congressional approval to order military strikes on Venezuelan soil amid rising tensions with the country. This comes even as criticism mounts over the scope and legality of the United States' expanding operations in the region.&nbsp;</p><p>When asked directly whether lawmakers would be consulted before authorising land hits on drug cartels, Trump said he “wouldn’t mind” informing them but insisted it was “not a big deal”. He also suggested that briefing Congress could compromise operations, saying politicians “leak like a sieve.”</p><p>“I wouldn’t mind telling them, but you know, it’s not a big deal,” Trump said. “I don't have to tell them.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Since September, 104 people have been killed in US strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has provided no evidence, as critics question the legality of US military operations in international waters.

The US military on Thursday (Dec 18) said that it struck two more alleged drug vessels in the Pacific Ocean, killing five. The death toll amid US President Donald Trump’s campaign against drug trafficking has risen to over 100 with the recent strike. The attacks were carried out under the direction of Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, the US Southern Command said in a social media post, sharing the footage from the latest “lethal kinetic strikes” by Joint Task Force Southern Spear. “On Dec. 18, at the direction of @SecWar Pete Hegseth, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted lethal kinetic strikes on two vessels operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations in international waters. Intelligence confirmed that the vessels were transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and were engaged in narco-trafficking operations. A total of five male narco-terrorists were killed during these actions - three in the first vessel and two in the second vessel. No U.S. military forces were harmed,” the US Southern Command wrote on X. According to an AFP tally, 104 people have been killed in US strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean since September. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has provided no evidence, as critics question the legality of US military operations in international waters.

<p>Since September, 104 people have been killed in US strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has provided no evidence, as critics question the legality of US military operations in international waters.</p>

US military strikes two more alleged drug boats in Pacific, death toll rises to over 100

<p>As the tensions rise in Bangladesh following the death of the youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, who was killed in an assassination attempt, violent protesters hurled stones at the Assistant High Commission of India and nearby residences of officials in the port city of Chittagong. Smoke billowed in the region as law enforcement confirmed arson incidents in the area. This comes after protests broke out in several parts of the country after Hadi died in a Singapore hospital on Thursday (Dec 19).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Thousands of people took to the streets after the youth leader’s death, demanding his killers’ arrest. Angry protestors set fire to several buildings in the capital, including offices of two leading newspapers, with staff trapped inside.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Hadi, the leader of the country’s 2024 pro-democracy uprising, was a polarising figure known for his strong anti-India stance. He was shot by masked assailants while leaving a mosque in Dhaka. Hadi was airlifted to a hospital in Singapore for treatment, but succumbed to his injuries on Thursday (Dec 18).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>At least three cases of arson were reported in Dhaka early Friday (Dec 19), according to a spokesperson for the Fire Brigade and Civil Defence force. Buildings of newspapers, Daily Star and Prothom Alo, were targeted in the attacks. The protestors have accused the two largest papers of aligning with India, where the former prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, has been staying after her ouster.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Protesters also blocked a major highway that connects Dhaka with other parts of the country and vandalised the home of a former minister in Chittagong in southeastern Bangladesh. The residence of Bangladesh’s first president, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the father of Sheikh Hasina, was also vandalised and set on fire by violent protesters.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, Bangladesh police have launched a manhunt for Hadi’s shooter. The authorities have released photographs of two key suspects in the killing and have offered a reward of 5 million taka (about $42,000) for any information leading to their arrest.</p>

Thousands of people took to the streets after the youth leader’s death, demanding his killers’ arrest. Angry protestors set fire to several buildings in the capital, including offices of two leading newspapers, with staff trapped inside.

As the tensions rise in Bangladesh following the death of the youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, who was killed in an assassination attempt, violent protesters hurled stones at the Assistant High Commission of India and nearby residences of officials in the port city of Chittagong. Smoke billowed in the region as law enforcement confirmed arson incidents in the area. This comes after protests broke out in several parts of the country after Hadi died in a Singapore hospital on Thursday (Dec 19). Thousands of people took to the streets after the youth leader’s death, demanding his killers’ arrest. Angry protestors set fire to several buildings in the capital, including offices of two leading newspapers, with staff trapped inside. Hadi, the leader of the country’s 2024 pro-democracy uprising, was a polarising figure known for his strong anti-India stance. He was shot by masked assailants while leaving a mosque in Dhaka. Hadi was airlifted to a hospital in Singapore for treatment, but succumbed to his injuries on Thursday (Dec 18). At least three cases of arson were reported in Dhaka early Friday (Dec 19), according to a spokesperson for the Fire Brigade and Civil Defence force. Buildings of newspapers, Daily Star and Prothom Alo, were targeted in the attacks. The protestors have accused the two largest papers of aligning with India, where the former prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, has been staying after her ouster. Protesters also blocked a major highway that connects Dhaka with other parts of the country and vandalised the home of a former minister in Chittagong in southeastern Bangladesh. The residence of Bangladesh’s first president, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the father of Sheikh Hasina, was also vandalised and set on fire by violent protesters. Meanwhile, Bangladesh police have launched a manhunt for Hadi’s shooter. The authorities have released photographs of two key suspects in the killing and have offered a reward of 5 million taka (about $42,000) for any information leading to their arrest.

<p>Thousands of people took to the streets after the youth leader’s death, demanding his killers’ arrest. Angry protestors set fire to several buildings in the capital, including offices of two leading newspapers, with staff trapped inside.</p>

Bangladesh protest: Vandals attack Indian Mission in Chittagong after Sharif Osman Hadi’s Death

<p>Investigators on Thursday (Dec 18) said that they believe the man behind last week's deadly mass shooting at Brown University may also be responsible for the killing of a Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) professor. This links two high-profile crimes that have rattled academic communities across New England. Police have identified the suspect as Claudio Nevez Valenti, a 48-year-old Brown University student from Portugal. Valenti was wanted in connection with the Brown shooting that left two students dead and nine others injured. Authorities say he was found dead Thursday night in New Hampshire from what they described as a self-inflicted gunshot wound.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-claudio-nevez-valenti-all-we-know-about-brown-university-shooting-suspect-found-dead-in-salem-1766112659555"><strong>Who is Claudio Nevez Valenti? All we know about Brown University shooting suspect found dead in Salem</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Valenti behind campus shooting and MIT professor's murder</strong></h2><p>In a major development, law enforcement officials now say Valenti is also believed to be connected to the murder of Nuno Loureiro, a prominent MIT physicist who was shot in his home earlier this week. Loureiro, 47, was also from Portugal, a coincidence investigators have flagged as potentially significant. Earlier this week, on Tuesday (Dec 16), Rhode Island police investigating the Brown University shooting had said the two cases were unrelated.</p><p>Loureiro, a celebrated fusion scientist, was found critically wounded at his home in Brookline, Massachusetts, after police responded to reports of a shooting late Monday (Dec 15) night. He was rushed to the hospital but died the following morning.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brown-university-shooting-gunman-identified-found-dead-after-days-long-manhunt-1766111778917"><strong>Brown University shooting: Gunman identified, found dead after days-long manhunt</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Who was Nuno Loureiro?</strong></h2><p>MIT confirmed Loureiro’s death in a statement, calling him a "lauded theoretical physicist and fusion scientist." He served as director of the university’s Plasma Science and Fusion Centre and joined the MIT faculty in 2016. His research focused on complex problems in plasma physics, with applications ranging from fusion energy to astrophysics.</p><p>Authorities confirmed that both the gunman and the MIT professor attended the same academic programme in Portugal from 1995 to 2000.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Police believe Brown University shooting suspect Claudio Nevez Valenti also killed MIT professor Nuno Loureiro. Both men were from Portugal. Valenti, linked to the campus attack that killed two students, was found dead in New Hampshire from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Investigators on Thursday (Dec 18) said that they believe the man behind last week's deadly mass shooting at Brown University may also be responsible for the killing of a Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) professor. This links two high-profile crimes that have rattled academic communities across New England. Police have identified the suspect as Claudio Nevez Valenti, a 48-year-old Brown University student from Portugal. Valenti was wanted in connection with the Brown shooting that left two students dead and nine others injured. Authorities say he was found dead Thursday night in New Hampshire from what they described as a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Also read | Who is Claudio Nevez Valenti? All we know about Brown University shooting suspect found dead in Salem Valenti behind campus shooting and MIT professor's murder In a major development, law enforcement officials now say Valenti is also believed to be connected to the murder of Nuno Loureiro, a prominent MIT physicist who was shot in his home earlier this week. Loureiro, 47, was also from Portugal, a coincidence investigators have flagged as potentially significant. Earlier this week, on Tuesday (Dec 16), Rhode Island police investigating the Brown University shooting had said the two cases were unrelated. Loureiro, a celebrated fusion scientist, was found critically wounded at his home in Brookline, Massachusetts, after police responded to reports of a shooting late Monday (Dec 15) night. He was rushed to the hospital but died the following morning. Also read | Brown University shooting: Gunman identified, found dead after days-long manhunt Who was Nuno Loureiro? MIT confirmed Loureiro’s death in a statement, calling him a "lauded theoretical physicist and fusion scientist." He served as director of the university’s Plasma Science and Fusion Centre and joined the MIT faculty in 2016. His research focused on complex problems in plasma physics, with applications ranging from fusion energy to astrophysics. Authorities confirmed that both the gunman and the MIT professor attended the same academic programme in Portugal from 1995 to 2000.

<p>Police believe Brown University shooting suspect Claudio Nevez Valenti also killed MIT professor Nuno Loureiro. Both men were from Portugal. Valenti, linked to the campus attack that killed two students, was found dead in New Hampshire from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.</p>

Brown University shooting suspect Claudio Nevez Valenti murdered MIT professor Nuno Loureiro, officials reveal

<p>Violent protests broke out in several cities in Bangladesh after a youth leader, Sharif Osman Hadi, was killed in an assassination attempt. Thousands of people took to the streets after his death, demanding his killers’ arrest. Angry protestors set fire to several buildings in the capital, including offices of two leading newspapers, with staff trapped inside.</p><p>Hadi, the leader of the country’s 2024 pro-democracy uprising, was a polarising figure known for his strong anti-India stance. He was shot by masked assailants while leaving a mosque in Dhaka. Hadi was airlifted to a hospital in Singapore for treatment, but succumbed to his injuries on Thursday (Dec 18).</p><p>At least three cases of arson were reported in Dhaka early Friday (Dec 19), according to a spokesperson for the Fire Brigade and Civil Defence force. Buildings of newspapers, Daily Star and Prothom Alo, were targeted in the attacks. The protestors have accused the two largest papers of aligning with India, where the former prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, has been staying after her ouster.</p><p>Daily Star reporter Zyma Islam said that she was trapped inside the burning building. According to the officials, the fire at the building was brought under control at 1:40 am, but 27 employees were trapped inside.</p><p>Protesters also blocked a major highway that connects Dhaka with other parts of the country and vandalised the home of a former minister in Chittagong in southeastern Bangladesh. The residence of Bangladesh’s first president, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the father of Sheikh Hasina, was also vandalised and set on fire by violent protesters.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Angry protesters stormed the offices of Bangladesh’s two leading newspapers after news reached the country from Singapore of the death of a prominent activist in last year’s political uprising in Bangladesh, Sharif Osman Hadi<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dhaka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dhaka</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bangladesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bangladesh</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Protest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Protest</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OsmanHadi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OsmanHadi</a> <a href="https://t.co/LiiSptjAJX">pic.twitter.com/LiiSptjAJX</a></p>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2001845469568475333?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Thousands march through the Bangladesh capital, Dhaka, after the death of a prominent student leader of Bangladesh&#39;s 2024 uprising. Sharif Osman Hadi was shot and critically wounded a week ago, before passing away in Singapore, where he was being treated<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BangladeshCrisis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BangladeshCrisis</a>… <a href="https://t.co/jehxMp7p3r">pic.twitter.com/jehxMp7p3r</a></p>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2001840311396634816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Bangladesh: Visuals of the aftermath from Prothom Alo office in Dhaka, which was burned down by protesters. Firefighters are present at the spot.<br><br>After the death of Osman Hadi, a key leader in the protests against Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh has erupted in unrest, and… <a href="https://t.co/SbH0kiLglE">pic.twitter.com/SbH0kiLglE</a></p>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2001839333066915930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Hadi, the leader of the country’s 2024 pro-democracy uprising, was a polarising figure known for his strong anti-India stance.

Violent protests broke out in several cities in Bangladesh after a youth leader, Sharif Osman Hadi, was killed in an assassination attempt. Thousands of people took to the streets after his death, demanding his killers’ arrest. Angry protestors set fire to several buildings in the capital, including offices of two leading newspapers, with staff trapped inside. Hadi, the leader of the country’s 2024 pro-democracy uprising, was a polarising figure known for his strong anti-India stance. He was shot by masked assailants while leaving a mosque in Dhaka. Hadi was airlifted to a hospital in Singapore for treatment, but succumbed to his injuries on Thursday (Dec 18). At least three cases of arson were reported in Dhaka early Friday (Dec 19), according to a spokesperson for the Fire Brigade and Civil Defence force. Buildings of newspapers, Daily Star and Prothom Alo, were targeted in the attacks. The protestors have accused the two largest papers of aligning with India, where the former prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, has been staying after her ouster. Daily Star reporter Zyma Islam said that she was trapped inside the burning building. According to the officials, the fire at the building was brought under control at 1:40 am, but 27 employees were trapped inside. Protesters also blocked a major highway that connects Dhaka with other parts of the country and vandalised the home of a former minister in Chittagong in southeastern Bangladesh. The residence of Bangladesh’s first president, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the father of Sheikh Hasina, was also vandalised and set on fire by violent protesters.

<p>Hadi, the leader of the country’s 2024 pro-democracy uprising, was a polarising figure known for his strong anti-India stance.</p>

Bangladesh violence: Protesters set fire to major media offices after youth leader’s death | WATCH

<p>Brown University shooting suspect has been identified as Claudio Nevez Valenti, a 48-year-old Brown University student. Speaking at a press conference on Thursday (Dec 18) night, authorities also tied him to another murder that shocked the US recently: the killing of Nuno Loureiro, a renowned MIT professor, in his home. Here's all we know about the alleged shooter.</p><h2><strong>Who was Claudio Nevez Valenti?</strong></h2><p>Claudio Nevez Valenti, according to officials, was a former student at the Ivy League university, where he carried out the shooting on December 13, 2025. The alleged shooter was from Portugal and had obtained permanent US residency in 2017. His last known address was in Miami, they said.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brown-university-shooting-gunman-identified-found-dead-after-days-long-manhunt-1766111778917"><strong>Brown University shooting: Gunman identified, found dead after days-long manhunt</strong></a></p><p>Valenti was an enrolled student at Brown University from the fall of 2000 to spring 2001, revealed the University's president Christina Paxson. "He was studying for a PhD in physics," at the time, she said.</p><p>According to her, during his time at the university, Valenti frequently visited the building where the attack occurred. However, she noted that he has "no current active affiliation" with the university.</p><p>Neves Valente was born in Portugal and obtained permanent US residency in 2017</p><p>He was wanted in connection with the Brown University shooting that killed two students and injured nine others. Investigators also believe he was linked to the killing of a Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor earlier this week. The MIT victim was also from Portugal, a detail authorities noted as part of the ongoing investigation.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brown-university-shooting-suspect-claudio-nevez-valenti-murdered-mit-proffesor-nuno-loureiro-in-boston-reveal-officials-1766114270132"><strong>Brown University shooting suspect Claudio Nevez Valenti murdered MIT professor Nuno Loureiro, officials reveal</strong></a></p><h2><strong>How was he identified?</strong></h2><p>Speaking to reporters, police said the breakthrough came through what they described as "good old-fashioned police work." Investigators followed up on public tips that led them to a car rental location in Massachusetts. Surveillance video helped identify a vehicle connected to the suspect, which was then traced to a rental company. That trail ultimately led police to Valenti’s identity.</p><p>His body was discovered inside a storage unit in Salem, New Hampshire. Investigators believe he died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Law enforcement officials said they had swarmed the Salem storage facility earlier Thursday evening as they closed in on the suspect. A short time later, they discovered his body inside one of the units.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Police have identified the Brown University shooting suspect as Claudio Nevez Valenti, a 48-year-old student of the University. Here's all we know about him.

Brown University shooting suspect has been identified as Claudio Nevez Valenti, a 48-year-old Brown University student. Speaking at a press conference on Thursday (Dec 18) night, authorities also tied him to another murder that shocked the US recently: the killing of Nuno Loureiro, a renowned MIT professor, in his home. Here's all we know about the alleged shooter. Who was Claudio Nevez Valenti? Claudio Nevez Valenti, according to officials, was a former student at the Ivy League university, where he carried out the shooting on December 13, 2025. The alleged shooter was from Portugal and had obtained permanent US residency in 2017. His last known address was in Miami, they said. Also read | Brown University shooting: Gunman identified, found dead after days-long manhunt Valenti was an enrolled student at Brown University from the fall of 2000 to spring 2001, revealed the University's president Christina Paxson. "He was studying for a PhD in physics," at the time, she said. According to her, during his time at the university, Valenti frequently visited the building where the attack occurred. However, she noted that he has "no current active affiliation" with the university. Neves Valente was born in Portugal and obtained permanent US residency in 2017 He was wanted in connection with the Brown University shooting that killed two students and injured nine others. Investigators also believe he was linked to the killing of a Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor earlier this week. The MIT victim was also from Portugal, a detail authorities noted as part of the ongoing investigation. Also read | Brown University shooting suspect Claudio Nevez Valenti murdered MIT professor Nuno Loureiro, officials reveal How was he identified? Speaking to reporters, police said the breakthrough came through what they described as "good old-fashioned police work." Investigators followed up on public tips that led them to a car rental location in Massachusetts. Surveillance video helped identify a vehicle connected to the suspect, which was then traced to a rental company. That trail ultimately led police to Valenti’s identity. His body was discovered inside a storage unit in Salem, New Hampshire. Investigators believe he died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Law enforcement officials said they had swarmed the Salem storage facility earlier Thursday evening as they closed in on the suspect. A short time later, they discovered his body inside one of the units.

<p>Police have identified the Brown University shooting suspect as Claudio Nevez Valenti, a 48-year-old student of the University. Here's all we know about him.</p>

Who was Claudio Nevez Valenti? All we know about Brown University shooting suspect found dead in Salem

<p>The man believed to be behind last week's mass shooting at Brown University was found dead late Thursday (Dec 18) night in New Hampshire, bringing a grim end to a days-long manhunt that had rattled campuses across New England. At a press conference, authorities identified the shooting suspect as 48-year-old Claudio Nevice Valenti, a Brown University student from Portugal. He was wanted in connection with the Brown University shooting that killed two students and injured nine others.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-claudio-nevez-valenti-all-we-know-about-brown-university-shooting-suspect-found-dead-in-salem-1766112659555"><strong>Who is Claudio Nevez Valenti? All we know about Brown University shooting suspect found dead in Salem</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Valenti behind MIT professor killing</strong></h2><p>In a shocking twist, investigators revealed that they believe the alleged Brown University shooter was also linked to another homicide, the killing of a Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor, Nuno Loureiro, earlier this week. The MIT victim was also from Portugal, a detail authorities noted as part of the ongoing investigation.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brown-university-shooting-suspect-claudio-nevez-valenti-murdered-mit-proffesor-nuno-loureiro-in-boston-reveal-officials-1766114270132"><strong>Brown University shooting suspect Claudio Nevez Valenti murdered MIT professor Nuno Loureiro, officials reveal</strong></a></p><p>Loureiro, a prominent MIT physicist, was shot in his home earlier this week. He was found critically wounded at his home in Brookline, Massachusetts, after police responded to reports of a shooting late Monday (Dec 15) night. He was rushed to the hospital but died the following morning.&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>How did the Brown shooting suspect die?</strong></h2><p>The suspect's body was discovered inside a storage unit in Salem, New Hampshire. Investigators believe he died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Law enforcement officials said they had swarmed the Salem storage facility earlier Thursday evening as they closed in on the suspect. A short time later, they discovered his body inside one of the units.</p><p>Speaking to reporters, police said the breakthrough came through what they described as "good old-fashioned police work." Investigators followed up on public tips that led them to a car rental location in Massachusetts. Surveillance video helped identify a vehicle connected to the suspect, which was then traced to a rental company. That trail ultimately led police to Valenti’s identity.</p>

Brown University shooting: Gunman identified, found dead after days-long manhunt

The man believed to be behind last week's mass shooting at Brown University was found dead late Thursday (Dec 18) night in New Hampshire, bringing a grim end to a days-long manhunt that had rattled campuses across New England. At a press conference, authorities identified the shooting suspect as 48-year-old Claudio Nevice Valenti, a Brown University student from Portugal. He was wanted in connection with the Brown University shooting that killed two students and injured nine others. Also read | Who is Claudio Nevez Valenti? All we know about Brown University shooting suspect found dead in Salem Valenti behind MIT professor killing In a shocking twist, investigators revealed that they believe the alleged Brown University shooter was also linked to another homicide, the killing of a Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor, Nuno Loureiro, earlier this week. The MIT victim was also from Portugal, a detail authorities noted as part of the ongoing investigation. Also read | Brown University shooting suspect Claudio Nevez Valenti murdered MIT professor Nuno Loureiro, officials reveal Loureiro, a prominent MIT physicist, was shot in his home earlier this week. He was found critically wounded at his home in Brookline, Massachusetts, after police responded to reports of a shooting late Monday (Dec 15) night. He was rushed to the hospital but died the following morning. How did the Brown shooting suspect die? The suspect's body was discovered inside a storage unit in Salem, New Hampshire. Investigators believe he died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Law enforcement officials said they had swarmed the Salem storage facility earlier Thursday evening as they closed in on the suspect. A short time later, they discovered his body inside one of the units. Speaking to reporters, police said the breakthrough came through what they described as "good old-fashioned police work." Investigators followed up on public tips that led them to a car rental location in Massachusetts. Surveillance video helped identify a vehicle connected to the suspect, which was then traced to a rental company. That trail ultimately led police to Valenti’s identity.

<p>Brown University shooting: Gunman identified, found dead after days-long manhunt</p>

<p>US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Dec 18 ) doubled down on his claim that he does not need congressional approval to order military strikes on Venezuelan soil. This comes even as criticism mounts over the scope and legality of the United States' expanding operations in the region. Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump brushed aside questions about seeking authorisation from Congress if the US were to target drug cartels on land in Venezuela. Here's what he said.</p><h2><strong>'Not a big deal'</strong></h2><p>When asked directly whether lawmakers would be consulted before authorising land hits on drug cartels, Trump said he "wouldn't mind" informing them but insisted it was "not a big deal".</p><p>He also suggested that briefing Congress could compromise operations, saying politicians "leak like a sieve."</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-strikes-another-narco-trafficking-boat-kills-4-day-after-trump-s-venezuela-blockade-1766022468096"><strong>US strikes another ‘narco-trafficking’ boat, kills 4 day after Trump’s Venezuela blockade. Watch</strong></a></p><p>"I wouldn't mind telling them, but you know, it's not a big deal," Trump said. "I don't have to tell them," claimed the POTUS.</p><p>The comments come amid an aggressive US military campaign that has already seen multiple air and naval strikes against alleged drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific since September. These operations have reportedly killed at least 99 people and triggered a heated debate in Washington over the legality of the operations.</p><p>Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has meanwhile accused Washington of using drug trafficking as a pretext for a broader push to destabilise or overthrow his government, a charge the Trump administration denies. US officials insist the strikes are part of a counter-narcotics effort aimed at stopping the flow of drugs into the United States.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-turns-up-heat-on-venezuela-with-total-and-complete-blockade-of-oil-tankers-1765933286118"><strong>Trump turns up heat on Venezuela with ‘total and complete blockade’ of oil tankers</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What does the US Constitution say?</strong></h2><p>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.</p><p>Legal experts note that presidents can order limited military strikes without congressional approval under certain conditions, particularly if the actions are framed as defensive or limited in scope.&nbsp;</p>

Trump said he does not need Congress to authorise US strikes on Venezuelan soil, calling it “not a big deal” and claiming lawmakers “leak like a sieve.” But, what does the US Constitution say? All you need to know.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Dec 18 ) doubled down on his claim that he does not need congressional approval to order military strikes on Venezuelan soil. This comes even as criticism mounts over the scope and legality of the United States' expanding operations in the region. Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump brushed aside questions about seeking authorisation from Congress if the US were to target drug cartels on land in Venezuela. Here's what he said. 'Not a big deal' When asked directly whether lawmakers would be consulted before authorising land hits on drug cartels, Trump said he "wouldn't mind" informing them but insisted it was "not a big deal". He also suggested that briefing Congress could compromise operations, saying politicians "leak like a sieve." Also read | US strikes another ‘narco-trafficking’ boat, kills 4 day after Trump’s Venezuela blockade. Watch "I wouldn't mind telling them, but you know, it's not a big deal," Trump said. "I don't have to tell them," claimed the POTUS. The comments come amid an aggressive US military campaign that has already seen multiple air and naval strikes against alleged drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific since September. These operations have reportedly killed at least 99 people and triggered a heated debate in Washington over the legality of the operations. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has meanwhile accused Washington of using drug trafficking as a pretext for a broader push to destabilise or overthrow his government, a charge the Trump administration denies. US officials insist the strikes are part of a counter-narcotics effort aimed at stopping the flow of drugs into the United States. Also read | Trump turns up heat on Venezuela with ‘total and complete blockade’ of oil tankers What does the US Constitution say? 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. Legal experts note that presidents can order limited military strikes without congressional approval under certain conditions, particularly if the actions are framed as defensive or limited in scope.

<p>Trump said he does not need Congress to authorise US strikes on Venezuelan soil, calling it “not a big deal” and claiming lawmakers “leak like a sieve.” But, what does the US Constitution say? All you need to know.</p>

‘Not a big deal’: Trump claims he can strike Venezuela without Congress permission. But, what does the US Constitution say?

<p>The US health department on Thursday announced proposed measures that would effectively ban gender-affirming care for transgender youth, a major escalation of the Trump administration's efforts to roll back protections for trans people.</p><p>The series of sweeping proposals announced by US health chief Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and other officials would cut off vital federal funding from hospitals that provide pediatric gender transition services -- including puberty blockers, hormone therapies and surgical interventions -- even in states where they are legal.</p><p>In announcing his proposals -- which are not final and must go through lengthy review and public comment -- Kennedy called gender-affirming care "malpractice" based on "junk science driven by ideological pursuits."</p><p>His health department this year released a report largely written by critics of gender transition that emphasised risks of gender-affirming care and urged counseling before interventions -- a document that proved central to Thursday's announcement.</p><p>The proposed measures would prohibit reimbursements for minors' gender-affirming care from Medicaid, the federal program that provides health care coverage to low-income children and adults.</p><p>Even more limiting, it would revoke all funding from both Medicaid and Medicare -- the health care program for elderly adults and disabled people -- from any hospital that provides such care.</p><p>Such a move would place extreme financial hardship on facilities if they continued to provide such health services.</p><p>It puts medical providers in an "extremely precarious position," said Michael Ulrich, a Boston University professor of public health and law.</p><p>"I'm not sure there's a provider that exists that doesn't rely substantially on federal money," he told AFP.</p><h2>- 'Life-saving' care -</h2><p>The American Civil Liberties Union vowed a legal battle, calling the proposals "cruel" as well as "unconstitutional, saying they target "a vulnerable population for political gain."</p><p>The American Academy of Pediatrics -- which just abruptly lost federal funds in the millions including for initiatives to prevent infant death, according to a Washington Post report -- called Thursday's actions and rhetoric "harmful."</p><p>"These rules help no one, do nothing to address health care costs, and unfairly stigmatize a population of young people," the organization's president said in a statement.</p><p>The LGBTQ advocacy organization Human Rights Campaign said the proposals would "force providers into an impossible choice: stop providing health care to trans youth in order to protect federal funding for every other patient."</p><p>Zoe Taylor, a family doctor in the western US state of Washington, called gender-affirming health care "life-saving."</p><p>The physician, a fellow with the advocacy organization Physicians for Reproductive Health, said in her practice she's seen "youth thrive once their gender dysphoria is treated."</p><p>"Treating trans kids with gender-affirming care prevents and treats other mental health issues that come from society's reaction to trans youth, and also to their own gender dysphoria," she told AFP.</p><p>The proposals are an intrusion on the relationship between patients, their families and physicians, she said.</p><h2>- 'Extremely dangerous' -</h2><p>Throughout the first year of his second term, President Donald Trump has demonized any recognition of gender diversity and placed strong focus on attacking transgender people.</p><p>But the push to withhold broader federal health funding from any provider who offers transgender care scaled up Trump's crusade dramatically.</p><p>And it came one day after a split House of Representatives narrowly passed a bill that would criminalize providing gender-affirming medical care to trans minors.</p><p>Transgender people are a small proportion of the population, but lawyer Ulrich said the issue is both "extremely bad for transgender youth" and could "open the door" for other controversial government health care decisions.</p><p>"I don't think that enough people recognize the extent to which this is the federal government saying, 'We have the authority to declare to hospitals throughout the country what kind of health care they can and cannot provide,'" he said.</p><p>"It's an extremely, extremely dangerous proposition for the future."</p>

Even more limiting, it would revoke all funding from both Medicaid and Medicare -- the health care program for elderly adults and disabled people -- from any hospital that provides such care.

The US health department on Thursday announced proposed measures that would effectively ban gender-affirming care for transgender youth, a major escalation of the Trump administration's efforts to roll back protections for trans people. The series of sweeping proposals announced by US health chief Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and other officials would cut off vital federal funding from hospitals that provide pediatric gender transition services -- including puberty blockers, hormone therapies and surgical interventions -- even in states where they are legal. In announcing his proposals -- which are not final and must go through lengthy review and public comment -- Kennedy called gender-affirming care "malpractice" based on "junk science driven by ideological pursuits." His health department this year released a report largely written by critics of gender transition that emphasised risks of gender-affirming care and urged counseling before interventions -- a document that proved central to Thursday's announcement. The proposed measures would prohibit reimbursements for minors' gender-affirming care from Medicaid, the federal program that provides health care coverage to low-income children and adults. Even more limiting, it would revoke all funding from both Medicaid and Medicare -- the health care program for elderly adults and disabled people -- from any hospital that provides such care. Such a move would place extreme financial hardship on facilities if they continued to provide such health services. It puts medical providers in an "extremely precarious position," said Michael Ulrich, a Boston University professor of public health and law. "I'm not sure there's a provider that exists that doesn't rely substantially on federal money," he told AFP. - 'Life-saving' care - The American Civil Liberties Union vowed a legal battle, calling the proposals "cruel" as well as "unconstitutional, saying they target "a vulnerable population for political gain." The American Academy of Pediatrics -- which just abruptly lost federal funds in the millions including for initiatives to prevent infant death, according to a Washington Post report -- called Thursday's actions and rhetoric "harmful." "These rules help no one, do nothing to address health care costs, and unfairly stigmatize a population of young people," the organization's president said in a statement. The LGBTQ advocacy organization Human Rights Campaign said the proposals would "force providers into an impossible choice: stop providing health care to trans youth in order to protect federal funding for every other patient." Zoe Taylor, a family doctor in the western US state of Washington, called gender-affirming health care "life-saving." The physician, a fellow with the advocacy organization Physicians for Reproductive Health, said in her practice she's seen "youth thrive once their gender dysphoria is treated." "Treating trans kids with gender-affirming care prevents and treats other mental health issues that come from society's reaction to trans youth, and also to their own gender dysphoria," she told AFP. The proposals are an intrusion on the relationship between patients, their families and physicians, she said. - 'Extremely dangerous' - Throughout the first year of his second term, President Donald Trump has demonized any recognition of gender diversity and placed strong focus on attacking transgender people. But the push to withhold broader federal health funding from any provider who offers transgender care scaled up Trump's crusade dramatically. And it came one day after a split House of Representatives narrowly passed a bill that would criminalize providing gender-affirming medical care to trans minors. Transgender people are a small proportion of the population, but lawyer Ulrich said the issue is both "extremely bad for transgender youth" and could "open the door" for other controversial government health care decisions. "I don't think that enough people recognize the extent to which this is the federal government saying, 'We have the authority to declare to hospitals throughout the country what kind of health care they can and cannot provide,'" he said. "It's an extremely, extremely dangerous proposition for the future."

<p>Even more limiting, it would revoke all funding from both Medicaid and Medicare -- the health care program for elderly adults and disabled people -- from any hospital that provides such care.</p>

Trump health chief seeks to bar trans youth from gender-affirming care

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