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The Punjab Assembly on Tuesday (Dec 9) passed a resolution calling for a ban on Pakistan's jailed former prime minister Imran Khan and his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), branding them "anti-state". The motion was adopted amid sharp political tensions and an escalating confrontation between the military, the ruling coalition and the opposition.<h2>Imran Khan's "anti-army" rhetoric</h2>The move comes days after the military’s media wing chief, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, accused Khan of promoting what he described as "anti-army" narratives. The ISPR chief said such rhetoric had crossed the line from politics and now posed a national security threat.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistani-taliban-gunmen-storm-pakistan-checkpoint-near-afghan-border-six-soldiers-killed-1765268753648">Pakistani Taliban gunmen storm Pakistan checkpoint near Afghan border, six soldiers killed</a>Since that press briefing, leaders from the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and PTI have traded barbs. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said Imran Khan had used similarly harsh language against political opponents in the past and argued the PTI had no grounds to object to criticism from the military. PTI leaders, however, dismissed the allegations as "ridiculous," insisting the former prime minister was "not a security threat".<h2>PTI, Imran Khan, banned for insulting institutions that countered "enemy" like India</h2>The resolution was introduced by PML-N lawmaker Tahir Pervaiz and passed by the treasury benches after PTI lawmakers boycotted the proceedings. While the text stopped short of naming PTI or Imran Khan directly, its intent was clear.The resolution, as per a DAWN report, praised state institutions, saying they had successfully defended Pakistan against far larger adversaries, including India. "The institutions that safeguard Pakistan on every front and have successfully countered an enemy five times larger, such as India, are vital to the country’s integrity and stability".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fake-news-alert-pakistani-propoganda-accounts-try-to-use-ai-to-smear-army-chief-and-drag-wion-into-it-1764316925034">Fake news alert: Pakistani propaganda accounts try to use AI to smear Indian Army Chief and drag WION into it</a>It also accused a political party and its founder of "acting as a tool of the enemy state...making statements against the country and spreading chaos". It called for a ban on both and urged legal action against any individual, political or otherwise, found guilty under the law, with "appropriate punishment" to follow. The Assembly also paid tribute to the leadership and personnel of institutions tasked with safeguarding Pakistan's security.

Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan and his PTI party have been banned in Pakistan's Punjab. A fresh resolution brands Khan and PTI “anti-state”, accuses them of echoing enemy narratives and backs legal action. What triggered it, and how the army fits in, scroll down.

The Punjab Assembly on Tuesday (Dec 9) passed a resolution calling for a ban on Pakistan's jailed former prime minister Imran Khan and his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), branding them "anti-state". The motion was adopted amid sharp political tensions and an escalating confrontation between the military, the ruling coalition and the opposition. Imran Khan's "anti-army" rhetoric The move comes days after the military’s media wing chief, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, accused Khan of promoting what he described as "anti-army" narratives. The ISPR chief said such rhetoric had crossed the line from politics and now posed a national security threat. Also read | Pakistani Taliban gunmen storm Pakistan checkpoint near Afghan border, six soldiers killed Since that press briefing, leaders from the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and PTI have traded barbs. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said Imran Khan had used similarly harsh language against political opponents in the past and argued the PTI had no grounds to object to criticism from the military. PTI leaders, however, dismissed the allegations as "ridiculous," insisting the former prime minister was "not a security threat". PTI, Imran Khan, banned for insulting institutions that countered "enemy" like India The resolution was introduced by PML-N lawmaker Tahir Pervaiz and passed by the treasury benches after PTI lawmakers boycotted the proceedings. While the text stopped short of naming PTI or Imran Khan directly, its intent was clear. The resolution, as per a DAWN report, praised state institutions, saying they had successfully defended Pakistan against far larger adversaries, including India. "The institutions that safeguard Pakistan on every front and have successfully countered an enemy five times larger, such as India, are vital to the country’s integrity and stability". Also read | Fake news alert: Pakistani propaganda accounts try to use AI to smear Indian Army Chief and drag WION into it It also accused a political party and its founder of "acting as a tool of the enemy state...making statements against the country and spreading chaos". It called for a ban on both and urged legal action against any individual, political or otherwise, found guilty under the law, with "appropriate punishment" to follow. The Assembly also paid tribute to the leadership and personnel of institutions tasked with safeguarding Pakistan's security.

Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan and his PTI party have been banned in Pakistan's Punjab. A fresh resolution brands Khan and PTI “anti-state”, accuses them of echoing enemy narratives and backs legal action. What triggered it, and how the army fits in, scroll down.

Pakistan: Punjab Assembly bans Imran Khan, PTI, drags 'enemy' India into rhetoric while slamming ex-PM

Breaking his silence on the fresh clashes between Thailand and Cambodia, US President Donald Trump said that he would make a phone call to the leaders of both the countries urging them to stop the fighting. Fresh clashes erupted between both countries months after Trump brokered a peace deal. Speaking at a rally in Pennsylvania on Tuesday (Dec 9), Trump said that he hates seeing Thailand and Cambodia fighting again. Thailand and Cambodia clashes entered third day on Wednesday (Dec 10). Meanwhile, Thailand's foreign minister said in an interview that he saw no potential for negotiations in the border conflict, adding the situation was not conducive to third-party mediation, while a top adviser to Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet told Reuters his country was “ready to talk at any time,” reported Reuters.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cambodia-thailand-fighting-escalates-thousands-flee-death-toll-increases-military-ops-continue-what-will-be-fate-of-trump-s-ceasefire-1765258831944/1765258831945">Cambodia-Thailand fighting escalates: Thousands flee, death toll increases, military ops continue - What will be fate of Trump's ceasefire?</a>&nbsp;"I hate to say this one, named Cambodia-Thailand and it started up today and tomorrow I am going to have to make a phone call. Who else could say I'm going to make a phone call and stop a war of two very powerful countries, Thailand and Cambodia," Trump said. In another post on Truth Social, he again claimed ending eight wars: "There has never been a President that has worked as hard as me! My hours are the longest, and my results are among the best. I’ve stopped Eight Wars, saving many millions of lives in the process," he wrote.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | US President Donald Trump says, &quot;In 10 months, I ended eight wars, including Kosovo-Serbia, Pakistan and India. They were going at it. Israel and Iran, Egypt and Ethiopia. Armenia and Azerbaijan. I hate to say this, Cambodia and Thailand started up today. Tomorrow I have… <a href="https://t.co/ZpaCA8BzXP">pic.twitter.com/ZpaCA8BzXP</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1998580764385095895?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, slamming The New York Times for suggesting that he is “slow” and questioning his physical and cognitive health, Trump said, “I created an “aura” around the United States that has led every Country in the World to respect us more than ever before.” Calling them “enemies of the country”, he wrote, “I go out of my way to do long, thorough, and very boring Medical Examinations at Walter Reed, supervised by top doctors who have given me PERFECT marks. I have taken Cognitive Examinations on three separate occasions and ACED all of them in front of many doctors and experts. I’ve been told few people have been able to do the same. Despite all of this, The New York Times and others pretend I am “slowing up” or not as sharp, knowing it is untrue. I work very hard, maybe harder than ever. I believe it’s seditious, perhaps even treasonous, for The New York Times to publish fake reports to libel and demean the President of the United States.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thailand-s-foreign-minister-refuses-any-potential-for-negotiations-with-cambodia-1765302537126">Thailand's Foreign Minister refuses any potential for negotiations with Cambodia</a><h2>What triggered the fresh clashes?</h2>The fresh clashes were triggered after a Thai soldier was injured by a landmine in November. Thailand accused Cambodia of laying mines in the disputed areas, while Cambodia denied. Thailand on Dec 8 launched an air strikes against Cambodia after the death of a Thai soldier. Cambodia then said that it retaliated against Thailand will full force. Both countries were embroiled in intense clashes earlier in July for approximately a week. It left 43 people dead and forced around 300,000 to flee.

US President Donald Trump said that he will call Thailand and Cambodia’s leaders to stop renewed border clashes, months after he brokered a peace deal. As fighting entered day three, Thailand ruled out negotiations, while Cambodia said it was ready for talks.

Breaking his silence on the fresh clashes between Thailand and Cambodia, US President Donald Trump said that he would make a phone call to the leaders of both the countries urging them to stop the fighting. Fresh clashes erupted between both countries months after Trump brokered a peace deal. Speaking at a rally in Pennsylvania on Tuesday (Dec 9), Trump said that he hates seeing Thailand and Cambodia fighting again. Thailand and Cambodia clashes entered third day on Wednesday (Dec 10). Meanwhile, Thailand's foreign minister said in an interview that he saw no potential for negotiations in the border conflict, adding the situation was not conducive to third-party mediation, while a top adviser to Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet told Reuters his country was “ready to talk at any time,” reported Reuters. Also Read: Cambodia-Thailand fighting escalates: Thousands flee, death toll increases, military ops continue - What will be fate of Trump's ceasefire? "I hate to say this one, named Cambodia-Thailand and it started up today and tomorrow I am going to have to make a phone call. Who else could say I'm going to make a phone call and stop a war of two very powerful countries, Thailand and Cambodia," Trump said. In another post on Truth Social, he again claimed ending eight wars: "There has never been a President that has worked as hard as me! My hours are the longest, and my results are among the best. I’ve stopped Eight Wars, saving many millions of lives in the process," he wrote.

US President Donald Trump said that he will call Thailand and Cambodia’s leaders to stop renewed border clashes, months after he brokered a peace deal. As fighting entered day three, Thailand ruled out negotiations, while Cambodia said it was ready for talks.

'I hate to say...': Trump breaks silence as fresh Thailand-Cambodia clashes put his peace deal in jeopardy

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is carrying out a wide-ranging review into deaths that may potentially be linked to COVID-19 vaccines, a spokesperson for Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said on Tuesday (Dec 9), setting off fresh alarm across the medical community. The investigation comes after President Donald Trump appointed Kennedy, a long-time vaccine sceptic, to lead the health department, a move that has already triggered sweeping changes in US vaccine policy.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/make-america-safe-again-us-state-department-touts-achievement-85-000-visas-revoked-since-trump-returned-to-white-house-indians-students-affected-1765332063561">Trump cancelled 85,000 visas since January. The reasons may surprise you</a><h2>FDA investigating COVID-related deaths</h2>"FDA is doing a thorough investigation across multiple age groups of deaths potentially related to COVID vaccines," Andrew Nixon, a spokesperson for the health and human services department, told AFP. Bloomberg and the Washington Post had earlier reported on the probe.The review, as per the report, was originally expected to focus on possible child deaths, but the scope appears to have widened. In late November, controversy erupted after an internal FDA document was leaked to the media. The memo, attributed to a senior official, claimed that COVID-19 vaccines were linked to at least 10 infant deaths, though it offered no data or supporting evidence. Nixon, however, declined to give details on how the FDA is conducting the review, what data is being examined or when findings might be released.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-is-decaying-russia-has-the-upper-hand-trump-slams-allies-over-immigration-and-ukraine-1765328544941">'Decaying' and 'weak': Trump launches scathing attack on Europe and Ukraine</a><h2>How safe are coronavirus vaccines?</h2>Health authorities around the world have repeatedly said the safety and effectiveness of Covid vaccines have been thoroughly studied. While rare serious side effects have been identified, experts stress these cases do not outweigh the vaccines’ benefits for the vast majority of people.The Trump administration's recent moves, notably with the restructured CDC advisory panel and its anti-vaccine stance, have now become a cause of concern that political ideology may be taking precedence over medical science. Medical experts have expressed concern over the direction the FDA has taken under Kennedy’s leadership. Kennedy has a long record of promoting vaccine misinformation. In 2023, he described COVID-19 vaccines as deadly and made unsubstantiated claims that the virus was "targeted" to harm Black and White populations while sparing Ashkenazi Jews and Chinese people. &nbsp;

The FDA is probing deaths possibly linked to COVID vaccines across age groups after Trump put vaccine sceptic RFK Jr in charge. What triggered it, and why doctors are alarmed, scroll down.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is carrying out a wide-ranging review into deaths that may potentially be linked to COVID-19 vaccines, a spokesperson for Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said on Tuesday (Dec 9), setting off fresh alarm across the medical community. The investigation comes after President Donald Trump appointed Kennedy, a long-time vaccine sceptic, to lead the health department, a move that has already triggered sweeping changes in US vaccine policy. Also read | Trump cancelled 85,000 visas since January. The reasons may surprise you FDA investigating COVID-related deaths "FDA is doing a thorough investigation across multiple age groups of deaths potentially related to COVID vaccines," Andrew Nixon, a spokesperson for the health and human services department, told AFP. Bloomberg and the Washington Post had earlier reported on the probe. The review, as per the report, was originally expected to focus on possible child deaths, but the scope appears to have widened. In late November, controversy erupted after an internal FDA document was leaked to the media. The memo, attributed to a senior official, claimed that COVID-19 vaccines were linked to at least 10 infant deaths, though it offered no data or supporting evidence. Nixon, however, declined to give details on how the FDA is conducting the review, what data is being examined or when findings might be released. Also read | 'Decaying' and 'weak': Trump launches scathing attack on Europe and Ukraine How safe are coronavirus vaccines? Health authorities around the world have repeatedly said the safety and effectiveness of Covid vaccines have been thoroughly studied. While rare serious side effects have been identified, experts stress these cases do not outweigh the vaccines’ benefits for the vast majority of people. The Trump administration's recent moves, notably with the restructured CDC advisory panel and its anti-vaccine stance, have now become a cause of concern that political ideology may be taking precedence over medical science. Medical experts have expressed concern over the direction the FDA has taken under Kennedy’s leadership. Kennedy has a long record of promoting vaccine misinformation. In 2023, he described COVID-19 vaccines as deadly and made unsubstantiated claims that the virus was "targeted" to harm Black and White populations while sparing Ashkenazi Jews and Chinese people.

The FDA is probing deaths possibly linked to COVID vaccines across age groups after Trump put vaccine sceptic RFK Jr in charge. What triggered it, and why doctors are alarmed, scroll down.

COVID vaccines saved lives or killed babies? FDA launches broad review into deaths possibly tied to Coronavirus shots

A plane crash-landed on a moving car in on a busy road in Florida's Brevard County during rush hour. The car was a 2023 Toyota Camry that was moving on Brevard County's Interstate 95. The Florida Highway Patrol said that the plane’s 27-year-old pilot and his 27-year-old passenger escaped the crash without injuries. It also said that the driver of Camry suffered minor injuries but there were no casualties. According to Brevard County Fire Rescue, the aircraft made a forced descent onto the busy highway. The reason for the emergency landing that resulted into collision is not known.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">&quot;And boom... front tire just goes right onto the car that&#39;s right in front of us. It was so scary.&quot; Jaw-dropping video of the I95 Plane Crash-- <a href="https://twitter.com/MeghanMoriarty_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MeghanMoriarty_</a> talks with the videographer at 4 on <a href="https://twitter.com/WESH?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wesh</a>. <a href="https://t.co/LuxVoXSNs4">pic.twitter.com/LuxVoXSNs4</a>&mdash; Mike Hanson (@MikeWESH_2) <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeWESH_2/status/1998487716061745227?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

A small plane crash-landed onto a moving 2023 Toyota Camry on Florida’s I-95 in Brevard County during rush hour. The 27-year-old pilot and passenger were unhurt, while the car’s driver sustained minor injuries.

A plane crash-landed on a moving car in on a busy road in Florida's Brevard County during rush hour. The car was a 2023 Toyota Camry that was moving on Brevard County's Interstate 95. The Florida Highway Patrol said that the plane’s 27-year-old pilot and his 27-year-old passenger escaped the crash without injuries. It also said that the driver of Camry suffered minor injuries but there were no casualties. According to Brevard County Fire Rescue, the aircraft made a forced descent onto the busy highway. The reason for the emergency landing that resulted into collision is not known.

A small plane crash-landed onto a moving 2023 Toyota Camry on Florida’s I-95 in Brevard County during rush hour. The 27-year-old pilot and passenger were unhurt, while the car’s driver sustained minor injuries.&nbsp;

Plane crash-lands on moving car in Florida; dramatic video captures exact moment | WATCH

The Goa police on Tuesday (Dec 9) detained Ajay Gupta, one of the four owners of 'Birch by Romeo Lane' nightclub, where a fire claimed the lives of 25 persons, according to news agency PTI. The owner of the nightclub - the Luthra brothers - have reportedly fled to Phuket, Thailand after the fatal incident. The Goa Police, in a statement, said that they had issued a Look Out Circular (LOC) against Gupta and another co-owner Surinder Kumar Khosla. Ajay Gupta is the sixth person to be held in connection with the case. Gupta was detained in the national capital and he will soon be placed under arrest after the completion of formalities to bring him to Goa, the police official said to PTI.&nbsp;Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cylinder-blast-in-goa-s-nightclub-kills-23-including-tourists-pm-modi-speaks-to-cm-pramod-sawant-here-s-what-happened-1765071149633">Cylinder blast in Goa's nightclub kills many; ex-gratia announced - Here's what happened</a>&nbsp;Earlier on Dec 8, owner Saurabh Luthra expressed "profound grief" and unwavering solidarity with the bereaved families. Several reports emerged in which it was claimed that the nightclub structure was built illegally without licence and several demolition notices were served against it.<h2>Who is Ajay Gupta?</h2>Ajay Gupta is a Delhi-based businessman and one of the four co-owners of GS Hospitality Arpora LLP, the company that runs the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, North Goa.&nbsp;<h2>What action has administration taken?</h2>Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said that action will be taken against the club management and also against the officials who allowed it to operate despite flouting safety norms. The CM also said that the incident is “very unfortunate for a tourism state like Goa”. “The inquiry will examine the exact cause of the fire, and those found responsible will face the most stringent action under the law…,” he added. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also ensured ”all possible assistance" and spoke to Goa CM Sawant. The PMO announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased. The injured will be given Rs 50,000 from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF).

Goa Police detained nightclub co-owner Ajay Gupta after a fire at Birch by Romeo Lane killed 25 people. A Look Out Circular was issued earlier. CM Pramod Sawant ordered strict action against the club and officials for safety violations. 

The Goa police on Tuesday (Dec 9) detained Ajay Gupta, one of the four owners of 'Birch by Romeo Lane' nightclub, where a fire claimed the lives of 25 persons, according to news agency PTI. The owner of the nightclub - the Luthra brothers - have reportedly fled to Phuket, Thailand after the fatal incident. The Goa Police, in a statement, said that they had issued a Look Out Circular (LOC) against Gupta and another co-owner Surinder Kumar Khosla. Ajay Gupta is the sixth person to be held in connection with the case. Gupta was detained in the national capital and he will soon be placed under arrest after the completion of formalities to bring him to Goa, the police official said to PTI. Also Read | Cylinder blast in Goa's nightclub kills many; ex-gratia announced - Here's what happened Earlier on Dec 8, owner Saurabh Luthra expressed "profound grief" and unwavering solidarity with the bereaved families. Several reports emerged in which it was claimed that the nightclub structure was built illegally without licence and several demolition notices were served against it. Who is Ajay Gupta? Ajay Gupta is a Delhi-based businessman and one of the four co-owners of GS Hospitality Arpora LLP, the company that runs the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, North Goa. What action has administration taken? Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said that action will be taken against the club management and also against the officials who allowed it to operate despite flouting safety norms. The CM also said that the incident is “very unfortunate for a tourism state like Goa”. “The inquiry will examine the exact cause of the fire, and those found responsible will face the most stringent action under the law…,” he added. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also ensured ”all possible assistance" and spoke to Goa CM Sawant. The PMO announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased. The injured will be given Rs 50,000 from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF).

Goa Police detained nightclub co-owner Ajay Gupta after a fire at Birch by Romeo Lane killed 25 people. A Look Out Circular was issued earlier. CM Pramod Sawant ordered strict action against the club and officials for safety violations.&nbsp;

Goa nightclub fire: Co-owner Ajay Gupta detained in Delhi, Luthra brothers absconding - What we know

The United States has revoked around 85,000 visas since President Donald Trump came to power in January, revealed the State Department in an X post on Tuesday (Dec 9).<h2>Make America Safe Again</h2>In the X post, the State Department said the revocations reflected a clear directive from President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. "85,000 visa revocations since January," the post read, adding that "President Trump and Secretary Rubio adhere to one simple mandate, and they won't stop anytime soon". The message was shared alongside an image of Trump bearing the slogan "Make America Safe Again," an apparent nod at the White House's stand that tighter visa controls are a core national security priority.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tightens-immigration-again-cuts-refugee-work-permits-to-just-18-months-1764896524546">Trump tightens immigration again, cuts refugee work permits to just 18 months</a><h2>What caused the visas to be cancelled?</h2>Talking to CNN, a senior State Department official later provided more detail, revealing that over 8,000 of the cancelled visas belonged to international students. According to the official, offences such as driving under the influence, theft, and assault accounted for nearly half of all visa revocations over the past year. The official did not specify the reasons behind the remaining cancellations carried out in 2025.In earlier briefings, the department has said visas were also revoked for administrative reasons, such as expiration, as well as more serious concerns, including suspected "support for terrorism". In October, authorities cancelled the visas of individuals accused of celebrating the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.International students have come under particular scrutiny. Those who took part in protests linked to the Gaza conflict have faced increased monitoring, officials acknowledged, though no detailed figures were released.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/sabrina-carpenter-blasts-white-house-after-her-song-juno-pops-up-in-ice-s-evil-and-disgusting-video-1764749443308">Sabrina Carpenter blasts White House after her song 'Juno' pops up in ICE's 'evil and disgusting' video</a><h2>Trump's visa crackdown</h2>The visa crackdown fits into a broader strategy first outlined in August, when the State Department announced plans for a "continuous vetting" system for "all of the more than 55 million foreigners". Under the system, visa holders are being monitored throughout their stay, rather than being reviewed only at the time of entry or renewal.Since Trump began his second term, the department has expanded the criteria used to reassess visa applications and track those already in the country. The administration has also tightened checks on H-1B visas, a programme widely used by US companies to hire skilled foreign workers, including from India.

85,000 US visas revoked since January under Trump’s immigration crackdown. The State Department says offences range from DUI and theft to security concerns, with over 8,000 international students hit. 

The United States has revoked around 85,000 visas since President Donald Trump came to power in January, revealed the State Department in an X post on Tuesday (Dec 9). Make America Safe Again In the X post, the State Department said the revocations reflected a clear directive from President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. "85,000 visa revocations since January," the post read, adding that "President Trump and Secretary Rubio adhere to one simple mandate, and they won't stop anytime soon". The message was shared alongside an image of Trump bearing the slogan "Make America Safe Again," an apparent nod at the White House's stand that tighter visa controls are a core national security priority. Also read | Trump tightens immigration again, cuts refugee work permits to just 18 months What caused the visas to be cancelled? Talking to CNN, a senior State Department official later provided more detail, revealing that over 8,000 of the cancelled visas belonged to international students. According to the official, offences such as driving under the influence, theft, and assault accounted for nearly half of all visa revocations over the past year. The official did not specify the reasons behind the remaining cancellations carried out in 2025. In earlier briefings, the department has said visas were also revoked for administrative reasons, such as expiration, as well as more serious concerns, including suspected "support for terrorism". In October, authorities cancelled the visas of individuals accused of celebrating the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. International students have come under particular scrutiny. Those who took part in protests linked to the Gaza conflict have faced increased monitoring, officials acknowledged, though no detailed figures were released. Also read | Sabrina Carpenter blasts White House after her song 'Juno' pops up in ICE's 'evil and disgusting' video Trump's visa crackdown The visa crackdown fits into a broader strategy first outlined in August, when the State Department announced plans for a "continuous vetting" system for "all of the more than 55 million foreigners". Under the system, visa holders are being monitored throughout their stay, rather than being reviewed only at the time of entry or renewal. Since Trump began his second term, the department has expanded the criteria used to reassess visa applications and track those already in the country. The administration has also tightened checks on H-1B visas, a programme widely used by US companies to hire skilled foreign workers, including from India.

85,000 US visas revoked since January under Trump’s immigration crackdown. The State Department says offences range from DUI and theft to security concerns, with over 8,000 international students hit.&nbsp;

Trump cancelled 85,000 visas since January. The reasons may surprise you

US President Donald Trump has taken a swipe at Europe, calling the continent "decaying" and "weak" on immigration and Ukraine, in an interview. The comments, as per reports, are likely to deepen already frayed ties between Washington and some of its closest allies. In an interview with Politico published Tuesday, Trump accused European leaders of political correctness and failure, arguing that their approach to migration has hollowed out their societies. "Most European nations, they’re decaying," he said. Europe’s migrant policies, he added, were a "disaster" that had left countries weaker rather than stronger.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hits-out-at-zelensky-says-he-s-disappointed-ukrainian-president-hasn-t-even-read-us-peace-plan-for-ukraine-war-1765156813538">Trump hits out at Zelensky, says he's 'disappointed' with the Ukrainian president. Here's why</a><h2>Russia has the "upper hand": Trump</h2>During the interview, Trump also turned his focus to Ukraine, saying President Volodymyr Zelensky should hold elections despite Russia's ongoing invasion. He claimed Moscow currently has the "upper hand" in the war and repeated his frustration with Kyiv’s leadership. "I think it's an important time to hold an election," Trump said, suggesting that wartime conditions were being used to delay the vote. "It gets to a point where it’s not a democracy anymore."Ukraine was due to hold elections in March 2024, but the vote was postponed under martial law that was imposed after Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. Around a fifth of the country remains under Russian occupation.Trump also repeated his claim that Zelensky had not properly engaged with a US proposal to end the war. "It would be nice if he would read it," Trump said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/modi-putin-chemistry-back-on-display-as-pm-gifts-the-russian-leader-a-gita-in-his-own-language-1764899290609">Modi-Putin chemistry back on display as PM gifts the Russian leader a Gita in his own language</a><h2>Political correctness harming Europe?</h2>Slamming European leaders, Trump claimed, "They want to be politically correct, and it makes them weak. That’s what makes them weak". He added that there were "some real stupid ones" among Europe's leaders.Referring to NATO leader Mark Rutte's statement at a summit in June, he said, "NATO calls me daddy," and remarked, "They talk but they don’t produce. And the war just keeps going on and on."Trump's remarks follow the release of his administration’s new national security strategy last week, which alarmed European governments with language warning of so-called "civilisational erasure" and calling for resistance to migration trends. Critics say parts of the document echo ideas long associated with the far right, including themes tied to the so called "great replacement theory," which claims that a conspiracy to replace white populations was underfoot.Trump singled out several countries, including Britain, France, Germany, Poland and Sweden, saying migration was "destroying" them. He also renewed his attacks on London mayor Sadiq Khan, whom he describing him as "horrible, vicious, disgusting". Khan responded by saying Trump was "obsessed" with him and noted that Americans were "flocking" to move to London in large numbers.

In an interview, Trump claimed that Europe was “decaying” and “weak,” slamming migration policy. Criticising Ukraine’s leadership, he claimed Russia has the upper hand, while urging for elections in wartime.

US President Donald Trump has taken a swipe at Europe, calling the continent "decaying" and "weak" on immigration and Ukraine, in an interview. The comments, as per reports, are likely to deepen already frayed ties between Washington and some of its closest allies. In an interview with Politico published Tuesday, Trump accused European leaders of political correctness and failure, arguing that their approach to migration has hollowed out their societies. "Most European nations, they’re decaying," he said. Europe’s migrant policies, he added, were a "disaster" that had left countries weaker rather than stronger. Also read | Trump hits out at Zelensky, says he's 'disappointed' with the Ukrainian president. Here's why Russia has the "upper hand": Trump During the interview, Trump also turned his focus to Ukraine, saying President Volodymyr Zelensky should hold elections despite Russia's ongoing invasion. He claimed Moscow currently has the "upper hand" in the war and repeated his frustration with Kyiv’s leadership. "I think it's an important time to hold an election," Trump said, suggesting that wartime conditions were being used to delay the vote. "It gets to a point where it’s not a democracy anymore." Ukraine was due to hold elections in March 2024, but the vote was postponed under martial law that was imposed after Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. Around a fifth of the country remains under Russian occupation. Trump also repeated his claim that Zelensky had not properly engaged with a US proposal to end the war. "It would be nice if he would read it," Trump said. Also read | Modi-Putin chemistry back on display as PM gifts the Russian leader a Gita in his own language Political correctness harming Europe? Slamming European leaders, Trump claimed, "They want to be politically correct, and it makes them weak. That’s what makes them weak". He added that there were "some real stupid ones" among Europe's leaders. Referring to NATO leader Mark Rutte's statement at a summit in June, he said, "NATO calls me daddy," and remarked, "They talk but they don’t produce. And the war just keeps going on and on." Trump's remarks follow the release of his administration’s new national security strategy last week, which alarmed European governments with language warning of so-called "civilisational erasure" and calling for resistance to migration trends. Critics say parts of the document echo ideas long associated with the far right, including themes tied to the so called "great replacement theory," which claims that a conspiracy to replace white populations was underfoot. Trump singled out several countries, including Britain, France, Germany, Poland and Sweden, saying migration was "destroying" them. He also renewed his attacks on London mayor Sadiq Khan, whom he describing him as "horrible, vicious, disgusting". Khan responded by saying Trump was "obsessed" with him and noted that Americans were "flocking" to move to London in large numbers.

In an interview, Trump claimed that Europe was “decaying” and “weak,” slamming migration policy. Criticising Ukraine’s leadership, he claimed Russia has the upper hand, while urging for elections in wartime.

Europe is 'decaying', Russia has the 'upper hand': Trump slams allies over immigration and Ukraine

President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Tuesday he was ready to hold new elections in Ukraine, and that he expected to send Washington within a day revised proposals on ending the nearly four-year war with Russia.US President Donald Trump is pressuring Kyiv to accept a deal formulated by Washington, the initial version of which was criticised by Ukraine's allies as overly favourable to Russia."We are working today (Tuesday) and will continue tomorrow (Wednesday). I think we will hand it over tomorrow," Zelensky told reporters after shuttling between European capitals to hammer out a response with allies.Trump, who earlier accused Zelensky of not reading the latest US proposals, said Russia had the "upper hand" in the conflict, in an interview with Politico published on Tuesday.He also accused Kyiv of "using war" to avoid elections, which have been postponed under the imposition of martial law since Russia invaded its neighbour."You know, they talk about a democracy, but it gets to a point where it’s not a democracy anymore," Trump said.Ukrainian law prohibits holding elections under martial law, without which a presidential ballot was to have taken place in March 2024.But on Tuesday, following Trump's comments, Zelensky said he was ready to organise a new ballot."I am ready for the elections," Zelensky told journalists, adding that he is asking Ukrainian lawmakers to prepare "proposals regarding the possibility of amending the legislative foundations and the law on elections during martial law".<h2>- 'No legal right' -</h2>Zelensky spent the past few days shuttling between European capitals to hammer out a response to the US plan. On Monday he held talks with European leaders in London and Brussels. On Tuesday, he went to Italy to meet Pope Leo XIV and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.Washington's proposals involved Ukraine surrendering land that Russia has not captured -- the entire industrial Donbas region -- in return for security promises that fall short of Kyiv's aspirations to join NATO.Zelensky on Monday said Washington's 28-point plan had been revised to 20 points after US-Ukraine talks at the weekend.He said the land issue and international security guarantees were two of the main sticking points."Do we envision ceding territories? We have no legal right to do so, under Ukrainian law, our constitution and international law. And we don't have any moral right either," Zelensky said."The key is to know what our partners will be ready to do in the event of new aggression by Russia. At the moment, we have not received any answer to this question," he said.During a televised event on Tuesday, President Vladimir Putin called Ukraine's eastern Donbas region Russia's "historical territory"."This territory is important; it is our historical territory, absolutely," he said.<h2>- Trump criticises Europe -</h2>Trump has blown hot and cold on Ukraine since returning to office in January, initially chastising Zelensky for not being grateful for US support.But he was also frustrated that efforts to persuade Putin to end the war had failed to produce results, and he recently slapped new sanctions on Russian oil firms.European allies have expressed solidarity with Ukraine.In the Politico interview, Trump criticised Europe's role, saying: "They talk but they don't produce."Meloni, who positions herself as a bridge between Trump and Europe, has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine since Russia's invasion, although one of her coalition allies, Matteo Salvini's League party, is more sceptical of aid for Kyiv.Italy has sent weapons to Ukraine, but only for targets inside the country. Meloni has also ruled out sending troops in a possible monitoring force proposed by Britain and France.The Italian government last week postponed a decision on renewing military aid to Ukraine, with the current authorisation due to end on December 31. Salvini has reportedly questioned whether it is necessary in light of current talks.However, Meloni at the time insisted that "as long as there's a war, we'll do what we can, as we've always done to help Ukraine defend itself".

US President Donald Trump is pressuring Kyiv to accept a deal formulated by Washington, the initial version of which was criticised by Ukraine's allies as overly favourable to Russia.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Tuesday he was ready to hold new elections in Ukraine, and that he expected to send Washington within a day revised proposals on ending the nearly four-year war with Russia. US President Donald Trump is pressuring Kyiv to accept a deal formulated by Washington, the initial version of which was criticised by Ukraine's allies as overly favourable to Russia. "We are working today (Tuesday) and will continue tomorrow (Wednesday). I think we will hand it over tomorrow," Zelensky told reporters after shuttling between European capitals to hammer out a response with allies. Trump, who earlier accused Zelensky of not reading the latest US proposals, said Russia had the "upper hand" in the conflict, in an interview with Politico published on Tuesday. He also accused Kyiv of "using war" to avoid elections, which have been postponed under the imposition of martial law since Russia invaded its neighbour. "You know, they talk about a democracy, but it gets to a point where it’s not a democracy anymore," Trump said. Ukrainian law prohibits holding elections under martial law, without which a presidential ballot was to have taken place in March 2024. But on Tuesday, following Trump's comments, Zelensky said he was ready to organise a new ballot. "I am ready for the elections," Zelensky told journalists, adding that he is asking Ukrainian lawmakers to prepare "proposals regarding the possibility of amending the legislative foundations and the law on elections during martial law". - 'No legal right' - Zelensky spent the past few days shuttling between European capitals to hammer out a response to the US plan. On Monday he held talks with European leaders in London and Brussels. On Tuesday, he went to Italy to meet Pope Leo XIV and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Washington's proposals involved Ukraine surrendering land that Russia has not captured -- the entire industrial Donbas region -- in return for security promises that fall short of Kyiv's aspirations to join NATO. Zelensky on Monday said Washington's 28-point plan had been revised to 20 points after US-Ukraine talks at the weekend. He said the land issue and international security guarantees were two of the main sticking points. "Do we envision ceding territories? We have no legal right to do so, under Ukrainian law, our constitution and international law. And we don't have any moral right either," Zelensky said. "The key is to know what our partners will be ready to do in the event of new aggression by Russia. At the moment, we have not received any answer to this question," he said. During a televised event on Tuesday, President Vladimir Putin called Ukraine's eastern Donbas region Russia's "historical territory". "This territory is important; it is our historical territory, absolutely," he said. - Trump criticises Europe - Trump has blown hot and cold on Ukraine since returning to office in January, initially chastising Zelensky for not being grateful for US support. But he was also frustrated that efforts to persuade Putin to end the war had failed to produce results, and he recently slapped new sanctions on Russian oil firms. European allies have expressed solidarity with Ukraine. In the Politico interview, Trump criticised Europe's role, saying: "They talk but they don't produce." Meloni, who positions herself as a bridge between Trump and Europe, has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine since Russia's invasion, although one of her coalition allies, Matteo Salvini's League party, is more sceptical of aid for Kyiv. Italy has sent weapons to Ukraine, but only for targets inside the country. Meloni has also ruled out sending troops in a possible monitoring force proposed by Britain and France. The Italian government last week postponed a decision on renewing military aid to Ukraine, with the current authorisation due to end on December 31. Salvini has reportedly questioned whether it is necessary in light of current talks. However, Meloni at the time insisted that "as long as there's a war, we'll do what we can, as we've always done to help Ukraine defend itself".

US President Donald Trump is pressuring Kyiv to accept a deal formulated by Washington, the initial version of which was criticised by Ukraine's allies as overly favourable to Russia.

Zelensky to send updated US plan for Ukraine; says ready to hold elections in country

A US court granted the Justice Department’s request to make public grand jury documents in the case involving Jeffrey Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell. She is currently in prison for sex trafficking. The order by District Judge Paul Engelmayer, reported by Reuters, stated that he would allow the unsealing of the documents due to a recent law passed by Congress, the Epstein Files Transparency Act.&nbsp;“Contrary to DOJ’s depiction, the grand jury materials would not reveal new information of any consequence," Engelmayer wrote.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-wants-revenge-virologist-who-claimed-covid-was-developed-in-wuhan-says-beijing-is-using-her-family-to-lure-her-back-from-us-1765204872566">China wants REVENGE? Virologist, who claimed coronavirus was developed in Wuhan, says Beijing is using her family to 'lure' her back from US</a>&nbsp;Moreover, the judge also stated that he was initiating a mechanism to protect victims from the release of materials that would identify them or potentially invade their privacy. The order followed a similar one from a judge in Florida on Friday that allowed for the unsealing of documents in a case against Epstein.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-we-re-having-vande-mataram-debate-because-west-bengal-polls-are-coming-priyanka-gandhi-on-national-song-row-1765195963753">‘We’re having Vande Mataram debate because West Bengal polls are coming’: Priyanka Gandhi on national song row</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said that the timing of the Epstein files’ release did not matter to him and has continued to cast the issue as a distraction. “I just don’t want Republicans to take their eyes off all of the Victories that we’ve had," he wrote in a social media post.&nbsp;Trump’s own historical relationship with Epstein has again been the subject of recent headlines after US lawmakers released more than 20,000 pages of documents from Epstein’s estate – including some that mention Trump and other prominent figures, without indicating any wrongdoing by those individuals.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-russia-recruiting-africans-to-fight-in-ukraine-war-ex-south-african-president-s-daughter-accused-of-luring-17-men-for-this-1764938371858">Is Russia recruiting Africans to fight in Ukraine war? Ex-South African president’s daughter accused of luring 17 men for this</a>

The order by District Judge Paul Engelmayer, reported by Reuters, stated that he would allow the unsealing of the documents due to a recent law passed by Congress, the Epstein Files Transparency Act.

A US court granted the Justice Department’s request to make public grand jury documents in the case involving Jeffrey Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell. She is currently in prison for sex trafficking. The order by District Judge Paul Engelmayer, reported by Reuters, stated that he would allow the unsealing of the documents due to a recent law passed by Congress, the Epstein Files Transparency Act. “Contrary to DOJ’s depiction, the grand jury materials would not reveal new information of any consequence," Engelmayer wrote. Also read: China wants REVENGE? Virologist, who claimed coronavirus was developed in Wuhan, says Beijing is using her family to 'lure' her back from US Moreover, the judge also stated that he was initiating a mechanism to protect victims from the release of materials that would identify them or potentially invade their privacy. The order followed a similar one from a judge in Florida on Friday that allowed for the unsealing of documents in a case against Epstein. Also read: ‘We’re having Vande Mataram debate because West Bengal polls are coming’: Priyanka Gandhi on national song row Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said that the timing of the Epstein files’ release did not matter to him and has continued to cast the issue as a distraction. “I just don’t want Republicans to take their eyes off all of the Victories that we’ve had," he wrote in a social media post. Trump’s own historical relationship with Epstein has again been the subject of recent headlines after US lawmakers released more than 20,000 pages of documents from Epstein’s estate – including some that mention Trump and other prominent figures, without indicating any wrongdoing by those individuals. Also read:Is Russia recruiting Africans to fight in Ukraine war? Ex-South African president’s daughter accused of luring 17 men for this

The order by District Judge Paul Engelmayer, reported by Reuters, stated that he would allow the unsealing of the documents due to a recent law passed by Congress, the Epstein Files Transparency Act.

US court allows release of Maxwell documents in Jeffrey Epstein case

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Tuesday warned of possible Russian interference in next year's Armenian parliamentary election, saying Moscow is trying to prevent closer ties between the landlocked Caucasus nation and the EU. "It has become a distressing normality that elections are attacked by enemies of democracy," Merz said at a press conference in Berlin alongside his Armenian counterpart Nikol Pashinyan.&nbsp;Merz accused Russia of "trying to scare voters in Armenia" and "spreading untruths about the goals and values of the European Union" through "disinformation and sabotage"."It's not only Europe that Russia is trying to destabilise through hybrid means, but Armenia too," he added.&nbsp;In March, Armenia's parliament passed a bill launching the country's bid for EU membership, as the historically Russia-allied country drifts further away from Moscow's orbit.&nbsp;According to a translation provided by the German chancellery, Pashinyan said at the press conference that Armenia had already experienced an election in 2021 "under very difficult circumstances" and that the country "had experience with disinformation".Russia is blamed by Western security services for a spate of drone flights, acts of sabotage, cyberattacks and online disinformation campaigns in Europe, which have escalated since Moscow's 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;Merz encouraged Pashinyan to move closer to the EU, saying "there is now a historic opportunity for Armenia to embark on the path towards Europe" but cautioned that the country would have to "meet many conditions to join the European Union, including the Copenhagen criteria". In August, Armenia and its longtime arch-foe Azerbaijan committed to peace after decades of territorial conflict in a deal brokered by the White House.&nbsp;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. &nbsp;

Merz accused Russia of "trying to scare voters in Armenia" and "spreading untruths about the goals and values of the European Union" through "disinformation and sabotage".

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Tuesday warned of possible Russian interference in next year's Armenian parliamentary election, saying Moscow is trying to prevent closer ties between the landlocked Caucasus nation and the EU. "It has become a distressing normality that elections are attacked by enemies of democracy," Merz said at a press conference in Berlin alongside his Armenian counterpart Nikol Pashinyan. Merz accused Russia of "trying to scare voters in Armenia" and "spreading untruths about the goals and values of the European Union" through "disinformation and sabotage". "It's not only Europe that Russia is trying to destabilise through hybrid means, but Armenia too," he added. In March, Armenia's parliament passed a bill launching the country's bid for EU membership, as the historically Russia-allied country drifts further away from Moscow's orbit. According to a translation provided by the German chancellery, Pashinyan said at the press conference that Armenia had already experienced an election in 2021 "under very difficult circumstances" and that the country "had experience with disinformation". Russia is blamed by Western security services for a spate of drone flights, acts of sabotage, cyberattacks and online disinformation campaigns in Europe, which have escalated since Moscow's 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Merz encouraged Pashinyan to move closer to the EU, saying "there is now a historic opportunity for Armenia to embark on the path towards Europe" but cautioned that the country would have to "meet many conditions to join the European Union, including the Copenhagen criteria". In August, Armenia and its longtime arch-foe Azerbaijan committed to peace after decades of territorial conflict in a deal brokered by the White House. 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.

Merz accused Russia of "trying to scare voters in Armenia" and "spreading untruths about the goals and values of the European Union" through "disinformation and sabotage".

Germany's Merz warns of Russian meddling in Armenia vote

Nobel officials cancelled a press conference with Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado in Oslo Tuesday, as it was unclear where the Venezuelan opposition leader was and whether she would collect her award in person. Machado was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize on October 10 for her efforts to bring democracy to Venezuela, challenging the iron-fisted rule of Nicolas Maduro, who has been president since 2013.&nbsp;Originally scheduled for 1:00 pm (1200 GMT), the press conference with the 58-year-old, who went into hiding in her country in August 2024, was first postponed before finally being cancelled.&nbsp;"Maria Corina Machado herself said how difficult it was to come to Norway. We hope she will attend the Nobel Prize award ceremony" on Wednesday, institute spokesman Erik Aasheim told AFP.&nbsp;Following speculation about her whereabouts over the last few days, reporters were anticipating her first public appearance in 11 months.&nbsp;Machado last appeared in public at a demonstration in Caracas on January 9, protesting against Maduro's inauguration for his third term.&nbsp;Machado has accused Maduro of stealing the July 2024 election she was banned from standing in, a claim backed by much of the international community.<h2>‘Fugitive’</h2>Venezuela's attorney general, Tarek William Saab, said last month the opposition leader would be considered a "fugitive" if she travelled to Norway to accept the prize.&nbsp;"By being outside Venezuela and having numerous criminal investigations, she is considered a fugitive," Saab told AFP, adding that she is accused of "acts of conspiracy, incitement of hatred, terrorism".&nbsp;Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said Monday that he did not know if she would travel to Oslo.&nbsp;A trip to Oslo would raise thorny questions over her possible return to Venezuela or her ability to lead the Venezuelan opposition from exile.&nbsp;Michael Shifter, associate professor at Georgetown University, said that "under any scenario -- whether Machado can or can't return to Venezuela -- it will be very difficult to sustain momentum for the movement she inspired absent any progress in moving towards political change".&nbsp;"To be sure, it will be hard for Machado to lead the opposition in exile.&nbsp;But it will not be easy for her to do so even based in the country (when) most Venezuelans are facing dire economic and humanitarian conditions and increased repression by the Maduro regime," he told AFP.&nbsp;The Nobel prize ceremony will take place on Wednesday at 1:00 pm (1200 GMT) at Oslo's City Hall.&nbsp;Several members of Machado's family, including her mother, her three sisters and three children, were already in Oslo for the event.&nbsp;But none of them have disclosed Machado's location, with some claiming to be unaware of where she is.&nbsp;Several Latin American leaders, including Argentina's President Javier Milei -- like Machado, an ally of US President Donald Trump -- were also expected to attend the ceremony.<h2>Aligned with Trump</h2>Seen in Oslo on Monday was Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino, who said he came to "congratulate the hero of democracy and the struggling Venezuelan people" and voiced hope for a "return to democracy in Venezuela as soon as possible".&nbsp;A large police presence has meanwhile stood guard since Monday outside the Grand Hotel in central Oslo, which traditionally hosts the Nobel Peace Prize laureates, AFP journalists said.&nbsp;While Machado has been hailed by many for her efforts to bring democracy to Venezuela, she has also been criticised by others for aligning herself with Trump, to whom she dedicated her Nobel Prize.&nbsp;The Oslo ceremony coincides with a large US military build-up in the Caribbean in recent weeks and deadly strikes on what Washington says are drug smuggling boats.&nbsp;Maduro insists that the real goal of the US operations -- which Machado has said are justified -- is to topple the government and seize Venezuela's oil reserves.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Machado last appeared in public at a demonstration in Caracas on January 9, protesting against Maduro's inauguration for his third term.

Nobel officials cancelled a press conference with Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado in Oslo Tuesday, as it was unclear where the Venezuelan opposition leader was and whether she would collect her award in person. Machado was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize on October 10 for her efforts to bring democracy to Venezuela, challenging the iron-fisted rule of Nicolas Maduro, who has been president since 2013. Originally scheduled for 1:00 pm (1200 GMT), the press conference with the 58-year-old, who went into hiding in her country in August 2024, was first postponed before finally being cancelled. "Maria Corina Machado herself said how difficult it was to come to Norway. We hope she will attend the Nobel Prize award ceremony" on Wednesday, institute spokesman Erik Aasheim told AFP. Following speculation about her whereabouts over the last few days, reporters were anticipating her first public appearance in 11 months. Machado last appeared in public at a demonstration in Caracas on January 9, protesting against Maduro's inauguration for his third term. Machado has accused Maduro of stealing the July 2024 election she was banned from standing in, a claim backed by much of the international community. ‘Fugitive’ Venezuela's attorney general, Tarek William Saab, said last month the opposition leader would be considered a "fugitive" if she travelled to Norway to accept the prize. "By being outside Venezuela and having numerous criminal investigations, she is considered a fugitive," Saab told AFP, adding that she is accused of "acts of conspiracy, incitement of hatred, terrorism". Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said Monday that he did not know if she would travel to Oslo. A trip to Oslo would raise thorny questions over her possible return to Venezuela or her ability to lead the Venezuelan opposition from exile. Michael Shifter, associate professor at Georgetown University, said that "under any scenario -- whether Machado can or can't return to Venezuela -- it will be very difficult to sustain momentum for the movement she inspired absent any progress in moving towards political change". "To be sure, it will be hard for Machado to lead the opposition in exile. But it will not be easy for her to do so even based in the country (when) most Venezuelans are facing dire economic and humanitarian conditions and increased repression by the Maduro regime," he told AFP. The Nobel prize ceremony will take place on Wednesday at 1:00 pm (1200 GMT) at Oslo's City Hall. Several members of Machado's family, including her mother, her three sisters and three children, were already in Oslo for the event. But none of them have disclosed Machado's location, with some claiming to be unaware of where she is. Several Latin American leaders, including Argentina's President Javier Milei -- like Machado, an ally of US President Donald Trump -- were also expected to attend the ceremony. Aligned with Trump Seen in Oslo on Monday was Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino, who said he came to "congratulate the hero of democracy and the struggling Venezuelan people" and voiced hope for a "return to democracy in Venezuela as soon as possible". A large police presence has meanwhile stood guard since Monday outside the Grand Hotel in central Oslo, which traditionally hosts the Nobel Peace Prize laureates, AFP journalists said. While Machado has been hailed by many for her efforts to bring democracy to Venezuela, she has also been criticised by others for aligning herself with Trump, to whom she dedicated her Nobel Prize. The Oslo ceremony coincides with a large US military build-up in the Caribbean in recent weeks and deadly strikes on what Washington says are drug smuggling boats. Maduro insists that the real goal of the US operations -- which Machado has said are justified -- is to topple the government and seize Venezuela's oil reserves. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Machado last appeared in public at a demonstration in Caracas on January 9, protesting against Maduro's inauguration for his third term.

Nobel-press conference cancellation fuels uncertainty over Machado’s whereabouts

Belgium’s top court has dismissed fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi’s challenge to his arrest in Antwerp, clearing a major hurdle in India’s attempt to bring him back to face trial. The Court of Cassation, Belgium’s equivalent of the Supreme Court, heard the matter in Brussels on Tuesday (December 9) and upheld a previous ruling supporting India’s extradition request, officials familiar with the case said.&nbsp;Henri Vanderlinden, advocate general in Brussels, confirmed to Indian news website HT via email that the court had rejected Choksi’s appeal, meaning the decision of the Antwerp Court of Appeal remains valid. With the verdict now final, Indian officials say that formal extradition proceedings in Belgium can move ahead. Choksi, 65, has been lodged in an Antwerp prison since April 11 following a request issued by Indian authorities. He approached the Court of Cassation on October 30 after the Antwerp appellate court dismissed his plea on October 17. In that earlier judgment, the court rejected Choksi’s claims that he risked torture or unfair treatment if returned to India and ruled out the possibility that he was being politically targeted.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cough-syrup-racket-busted-in-uttar-pradesh-3-5-lakh-bottles-seized-32-arrested-as-government-forms-sit-to-probe-1765294404967">Cough syrup racket busted in Uttar Pradesh; 3.5 lakh bottles seized, 32 arrested as government forms SIT to probe</a>&nbsp;The Antwerp court also rejected Choksi’s argument that he had been kidnapped in Antigua and Barbuda in May 2021 at India’s behest, saying that documents submitted by him did not substantiate such allegations. It noted that even Interpol’s 2022 decision to withdraw his Red Notice was inconclusive and cautiously worded.&nbsp;In its findings, the Chamber of Accusation at the Antwerp court confirmed that two Indian court-issued warrants, dated May 23, 2018, and June 15, 2021, were legally enforceable. These warrants list charges of criminal conspiracy, breach of trust, fraud, embezzlement, and corruption, all of which carry at least one year of imprisonment in both countries, satisfying Belgium’s dual criminality requirement.&nbsp;Indian investigators accuse Choksi of orchestrating six major bank frauds between 2018 and 2022 amounting to nearly ₹13,000 crore. The extradition request is backed by provisions from the IPC and the Prevention of Corruption Act, as well as international agreements under UNTOC and UNCAC. To address human rights concerns, India assured Belgian authorities that Choksi would be housed in Barrack No. 12 of Mumbai’s Arthur Road Jail, which meets European CPT standards. The Indian government also committed to providing clean water, adequate food, medical access, and other basic facilities, and clarified that he would not be placed in solitary confinement.

Top Belgium court denies Mehul Choksi’s appeal, extradition process moves forward

Belgium’s top court has dismissed fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi’s challenge to his arrest in Antwerp, clearing a major hurdle in India’s attempt to bring him back to face trial. The Court of Cassation, Belgium’s equivalent of the Supreme Court, heard the matter in Brussels on Tuesday (December 9) and upheld a previous ruling supporting India’s extradition request, officials familiar with the case said. Henri Vanderlinden, advocate general in Brussels, confirmed to Indian news website HT via email that the court had rejected Choksi’s appeal, meaning the decision of the Antwerp Court of Appeal remains valid. With the verdict now final, Indian officials say that formal extradition proceedings in Belgium can move ahead. Choksi, 65, has been lodged in an Antwerp prison since April 11 following a request issued by Indian authorities. He approached the Court of Cassation on October 30 after the Antwerp appellate court dismissed his plea on October 17. In that earlier judgment, the court rejected Choksi’s claims that he risked torture or unfair treatment if returned to India and ruled out the possibility that he was being politically targeted. Also Read: Cough syrup racket busted in Uttar Pradesh; 3.5 lakh bottles seized, 32 arrested as government forms SIT to probe The Antwerp court also rejected Choksi’s argument that he had been kidnapped in Antigua and Barbuda in May 2021 at India’s behest, saying that documents submitted by him did not substantiate such allegations. It noted that even Interpol’s 2022 decision to withdraw his Red Notice was inconclusive and cautiously worded. In its findings, the Chamber of Accusation at the Antwerp court confirmed that two Indian court-issued warrants, dated May 23, 2018, and June 15, 2021, were legally enforceable. These warrants list charges of criminal conspiracy, breach of trust, fraud, embezzlement, and corruption, all of which carry at least one year of imprisonment in both countries, satisfying Belgium’s dual criminality requirement. Indian investigators accuse Choksi of orchestrating six major bank frauds between 2018 and 2022 amounting to nearly ₹13,000 crore. The extradition request is backed by provisions from the IPC and the Prevention of Corruption Act, as well as international agreements under UNTOC and UNCAC. To address human rights concerns, India assured Belgian authorities that Choksi would be housed in Barrack No. 12 of Mumbai’s Arthur Road Jail, which meets European CPT standards. The Indian government also committed to providing clean water, adequate food, medical access, and other basic facilities, and clarified that he would not be placed in solitary confinement.

Belgium’s Court of Cassation rejects Mehul Choksi’s appeal against arrest, making the way for his potential extradition to India for multiple fraud charges

Pakistani Army's spokesperson Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry came under extreme backlash after a social media claim that he winked at a female journalist during a press briefing. A video was circulated on social media, sparking accusations of “unprofessional conduct". The clip, which went viral on X, showed the journalist questioning Chaudhry about former Prime Minister Imran Khan, referencing allegations that he is being labelled a “national security threat," “anti-state," and acting “at the hands of Delhi."&nbsp;Chaudhry responded by adding, “And add a fourth point, he is also a zehni mareez (mental patient)," before winking at the journalist, a gesture that immediately triggered outrage online.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The person who sexually harassed the female journalist with his eyes during a press conference is none other than Pakistan Army&#39;s DG ISPR Ahmed Sharif Chaudhary. Sexual violence against women is common in Pakistan. Wherever they go in the world, they do not abandon their culture. <a href="https://t.co/Dlzk7t8UO6">pic.twitter.com/Dlzk7t8UO6</a>&mdash; Baba Banaras™ (@RealBababanaras) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealBababanaras/status/1998318619411792058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-wants-revenge-virologist-who-claimed-covid-was-developed-in-wuhan-says-beijing-is-using-her-family-to-lure-her-back-from-us-1765204872566">China wants REVENGE? Virologist, who claimed coronavirus was developed in Wuhan, says Beijing is using her family to 'lure' her back from US</a>&nbsp;Social media users called the act a “new low" for the military’s media wing. One internet user wrote, “Ahmed (Not) Sharif Chaudhary" in response to the video.“A DG ISPR answering a woman journalist with a wink? That’s the burial of professionalism. Press conference tha ya sasta flirting?" wrote another.&nbsp;WION can not independently verify the authenticity of the video.&nbsp;This came days after Chaudhry accused Khan of crafting a narrative that poses a direct threat to national security. He extended the remarks during a press conference that was held after the inauguration of the Chief of Defence Forces Headquarters. Chaudhry repeatedly slammed the former Pak PM. He said so while holding an old post on X Khan as evidence of what he called a deliberate attempt to “build a narrative against the Pakistan Armed Forces”.&nbsp;“This mentally ill person tweeted to build a narrative against the Pakistan Armed Forces,” the DG ISPR said. “Imran Khan’s narrative has become a national security threat," he added. Chaudhry did not take Khan's name but said that the former PM was driven by personal ambition rather than constitutional obligations.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-white-house-has-recieved-report-on-macron-s-plan-to-assassinate-me-candace-owens-another-big-claim-as-her-show-goes-off-air-1764165691510">‘White House has received report on Macron’s plan to assassinate me’: Candace Owens’ ANOTHER BIG CLAIM as her show goes off air</a>&nbsp;“A person thinks that if it’s not him, then it’s nothing. He has become a threat to national security,” he stated. “He thinks that without me, there is nothing," he said. Chaudhry also questioned how Khan, who remained incarcerated, was able to meet individuals and allegedly craft anti-state narratives from prison. “Which law is it under which a prisoner is met, and he crafts a narrative against the state and the armed forces of Pakistan?” he asked.

The clip, which went viral on X, showed the journalist questioning Chaudhry about former Prime Minister Imran Khan, referencing allegations that he is being labelled a national security threat.

Pakistani Army's spokesperson Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry came under extreme backlash after a social media claim that he winked at a female journalist during a press briefing. A video was circulated on social media, sparking accusations of “unprofessional conduct". The clip, which went viral on X, showed the journalist questioning Chaudhry about former Prime Minister Imran Khan, referencing allegations that he is being labelled a “national security threat," “anti-state," and acting “at the hands of Delhi." Chaudhry responded by adding, “And add a fourth point, he is also a zehni mareez (mental patient)," before winking at the journalist, a gesture that immediately triggered outrage online.

&nbsp;The clip, which went viral on X, showed the journalist questioning Chaudhry about former Prime Minister Imran Khan, referencing allegations that he is being labelled a “national security threat".&nbsp;

Did Pakistan Army spokesperson wink at female journalist? Netizens react to viral video

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's sister Aleema Khan and senior members of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) continued their demonstration on Tuesday (Dec 09) outside Rawalpindi's Adila Jail after they denied a meeting with the incarcerated PTI chief despite multiple requests. Salman Akram Raja, the secretary general of PTI, and Junaid Akbar Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provincial chief of the party, participated in the sit-in protests.&nbsp;The PTI made multiple efforts seeking a meeting with the party founder, but were denied the requests every time by the jail authorities, even as a court order allowed audiences with him on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Dawn, a Karachi-based daily, reported.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imran-khan-s-health-is-completely-fine-uzma-khanum-after-meeting-her-brother-in-adiala-jail-1764681088758">Imran Khan’s health 'completely fine' but being 'mentally tortured': Uzma Khanum after meeting her brother in Adiala Jail</a>&nbsp;On December 2, another one of Imran Khan's sisters, Uzma Khanum, allowed a 20-minute audience, nearly a month after shutting off all communication with the ex-premier. Speaking after the meeting Uzma said that her brother is she said his brother appeared in good physical health but was being subjected to "psychological torture".&nbsp;Khanum further said that her brother blamed Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, the de facto leader of Pakistan, for his condition and subjecting him to "mental torture." Pakistan Army fiercely responded to her comments about Asim Munir, calling Imran Khan mentally unstable and a narcissist.&nbsp;Uzma's visit followed weeks of uncertainty about Khan's life, and mounting pressure from his supporters and family asking for proof of his well-being.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indigo-crisis-centre-orders-10-per-cent-cut-in-airline-s-operations-indigo-ram-naidu-narendra-modi-air-travel-air-fare-ticket-prices-1765293281242">IndiGo crisis: Centre orders 10 per cent cut in airline’s operations</a>&nbsp;The Pakistan government also reacted strongly to Uzma's comments critical of Asim Munir and barred her and others from Meeting Imran Khan over alleged violation of prison code.&nbsp;“There is no room in the [prison] rules for political discussions, and it was reported that political discussions occurred, so meetings are now banned for Uzma Khan. This won’t happen,” said Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar.&nbsp;

Imran Khan’s sister Uzma Khanum, after meeting him in jail on December 2, said that her brother is physically in good shape but is being subjected to “psychological torture” at the direction of the Army Chief Asim Munir.

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's sister Aleema Khan and senior members of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) continued their demonstration on Tuesday (Dec 09) outside Rawalpindi's Adila Jail after they denied a meeting with the incarcerated PTI chief despite multiple requests. Salman Akram Raja, the secretary general of PTI, and Junaid Akbar Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provincial chief of the party, participated in the sit-in protests. The PTI made multiple efforts seeking a meeting with the party founder, but were denied the requests every time by the jail authorities, even as a court order allowed audiences with him on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Dawn, a Karachi-based daily, reported. Also Read: Imran Khan’s health 'completely fine' but being 'mentally tortured': Uzma Khanum after meeting her brother in Adiala Jail On December 2, another one of Imran Khan's sisters, Uzma Khanum, allowed a 20-minute audience, nearly a month after shutting off all communication with the ex-premier. Speaking after the meeting Uzma said that her brother is she said his brother appeared in good physical health but was being subjected to "psychological torture". Khanum further said that her brother blamed Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, the de facto leader of Pakistan, for his condition and subjecting him to "mental torture." Pakistan Army fiercely responded to her comments about Asim Munir, calling Imran Khan mentally unstable and a narcissist. Uzma's visit followed weeks of uncertainty about Khan's life, and mounting pressure from his supporters and family asking for proof of his well-being. Also Read: IndiGo crisis: Centre orders 10 per cent cut in airline’s operations The Pakistan government also reacted strongly to Uzma's comments critical of Asim Munir and barred her and others from Meeting Imran Khan over alleged violation of prison code. “There is no room in the [prison] rules for political discussions, and it was reported that political discussions occurred, so meetings are now banned for Uzma Khan. This won’t happen,” said Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar.

Imran Khan’s sister Uzma Khanum, after meeting him in jail on December 2, said that her brother is physically in good shape but is being subjected to “psychological torture” at the direction of the Army Chief Asim Munir.

Imran Khan’s sister, PTI leaders continue protest outside Adiala Jail after meeting repeatedly denied

A major burst of solar material is on track to reach Earth soon, according to an alert from NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center. Forecasters say a coronal mass ejection, an enormous release of plasma and magnetic energy from the Sun’s outer layers, is expected to arrive sometime between early morning and midday Tuesday. The eruption, tied to an M8.1-class solar flare, may trigger heightened geomagnetic activity and could escalate to a G3-level storm, which ranks as “strong” on NOAA’s Space Weather Scale.&nbsp;A storm of this strength can lead to minor to moderate technological disturbances, including issues with satellites, radio signals, and other communication systems. The surge in solar energy may also intensify auroras, potentially pushing the northern lights farther south than usual. NOAA notes that many northern states and portions of the lower Midwest and Pacific Northwest, including areas as far south as Oregon, could catch a rare glimpse.<h2>What is space weather?</h2>While we normally think of weather as atmospheric conditions like precipitation or sunshine, a different kind of weather exists beyond Earth’s atmosphere. Space weather describes the environmental conditions throughout space, largely generated by the Sun, and how those conditions influence planets, spacecraft, and the thousands of satellites circling Earth, as explained by NASA.&nbsp;The Sun continually releases streams of charged particles, bursts of radiation, and periodic explosive eruptions that can disturb Earth’s magnetic environment when they arrive. Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere block most dangerous effects, but not all solar activity is fully deflected. One of the most famous results of the solar wind interacting with Earth’s magnetic field is the creation of auroras, including the vibrant northern lights.&nbsp;However, strong solar activity can also be disruptive, posing risks to technologies such as communication networks, GPS systems, satellites, and even electrical infrastructure, NOAA warns.

NOAA warns of potent geomagnetic storm on Tuesday: Here’s what could happen

A major burst of solar material is on track to reach Earth soon, according to an alert from NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center. Forecasters say a coronal mass ejection, an enormous release of plasma and magnetic energy from the Sun’s outer layers, is expected to arrive sometime between early morning and midday Tuesday. The eruption, tied to an M8.1-class solar flare, may trigger heightened geomagnetic activity and could escalate to a G3-level storm, which ranks as “strong” on NOAA’s Space Weather Scale. A storm of this strength can lead to minor to moderate technological disturbances, including issues with satellites, radio signals, and other communication systems. The surge in solar energy may also intensify auroras, potentially pushing the northern lights farther south than usual. NOAA notes that many northern states and portions of the lower Midwest and Pacific Northwest, including areas as far south as Oregon, could catch a rare glimpse. What is space weather? While we normally think of weather as atmospheric conditions like precipitation or sunshine, a different kind of weather exists beyond Earth’s atmosphere. Space weather describes the environmental conditions throughout space, largely generated by the Sun, and how those conditions influence planets, spacecraft, and the thousands of satellites circling Earth, as explained by NASA. The Sun continually releases streams of charged particles, bursts of radiation, and periodic explosive eruptions that can disturb Earth’s magnetic environment when they arrive. Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere block most dangerous effects, but not all solar activity is fully deflected. One of the most famous results of the solar wind interacting with Earth’s magnetic field is the creation of auroras, including the vibrant northern lights. However, strong solar activity can also be disruptive, posing risks to technologies such as communication networks, GPS systems, satellites, and even electrical infrastructure, NOAA warns.

A strong solar eruption is expected to hit Earth on Tuesday (December 9), potentially causing tech disturbances and expanding northern lights visibility across more US regions

Zohran Mamdani, who is going to take office in January as New York City's new mayor, has announced that he is moving with his wife to the mayor's residence in Manhattan. The Gracie Mansion costs $100 million. Mamdani is the youngest mayor of the City who won the election on the promise of making New York City "affordbale". Taking to Instagram, Mamdani wrote, "My wife Rama and I have made the decision to move into Gracie Mansion in January."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-wants-revenge-virologist-who-claimed-covid-was-developed-in-wuhan-says-beijing-is-using-her-family-to-lure-her-back-from-us-1765204872566">China wants REVENGE? Virologist, who claimed coronavirus was developed in Wuhan, says Beijing is using her family to 'lure' her back from US</a>&nbsp;"This decision came down to our family's safety and the importance of dedicating all of my focus on enacting the affordability agenda New Yorkers voted for," he wrote."We will miss it all - the endless Adeni chai, the spirited conversations in Spanish, Arabic and every language in between, the aromas of seafood and shawarma drifting down the block," he added.&nbsp;"This decision came down to our family’s safety and the importance of dedicating all of my focus on enacting the affordability agenda New Yorkers voted for," he further said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-we-re-having-vande-mataram-debate-because-west-bengal-polls-are-coming-priyanka-gandhi-on-national-song-row-1765195963753">‘We’re having Vande Mataram debate because West Bengal polls are coming’: Priyanka Gandhi on national song row</a>&nbsp;The Gracie Mansion&nbsp;The mansion was not always the residence of the New York City mayor. The 12,855-square-foot mansion was built by a New York merchant named Archibald Gracie in 1799. For decades, the mansion was a private house. It became the official residence of the mayor in 1942. Mayor Fiorello H. La Guardia and his family moved in there for the first time. It was the Parks Commissioner, Robert Moses, who convinced city authorities to designate Gracie Mansion as the official residence of the mayor.

The mansion was not always the residence of the New York City mayor. The 12,855-square-foot mansion was built by a New York merchant named Archibald Gracie in 1799. 

Zohran Mamdani, who is going to take office in January as New York City's new mayor, has announced that he is moving with his wife to the mayor's residence in Manhattan. The Gracie Mansion costs $100 million. Mamdani is the youngest mayor of the City who won the election on the promise of making New York City "affordbale". Taking to Instagram, Mamdani wrote, "My wife Rama and I have made the decision to move into Gracie Mansion in January." Also read: China wants REVENGE? Virologist, who claimed coronavirus was developed in Wuhan, says Beijing is using her family to 'lure' her back from US "This decision came down to our family's safety and the importance of dedicating all of my focus on enacting the affordability agenda New Yorkers voted for," he wrote. "We will miss it all - the endless Adeni chai, the spirited conversations in Spanish, Arabic and every language in between, the aromas of seafood and shawarma drifting down the block," he added. "This decision came down to our family’s safety and the importance of dedicating all of my focus on enacting the affordability agenda New Yorkers voted for," he further said. Also read: ‘We’re having Vande Mataram debate because West Bengal polls are coming’: Priyanka Gandhi on national song row The Gracie Mansion The mansion was not always the residence of the New York City mayor. The 12,855-square-foot mansion was built by a New York merchant named Archibald Gracie in 1799. For decades, the mansion was a private house. It became the official residence of the mayor in 1942. Mayor Fiorello H. La Guardia and his family moved in there for the first time. It was the Parks Commissioner, Robert Moses, who convinced city authorities to designate Gracie Mansion as the official residence of the mayor.

The mansion was not always the residence of the New York City mayor. The 12,855-square-foot mansion was built by a New York merchant named Archibald Gracie in 1799.&nbsp;

Zohran Mamdani, who won NYC mayor polls on promise to make City ‘affordable’, set to move into $100mn mansion with wife for ‘safety’

The significant move, which has been condemned by teenagers, will make Australia one of the first countries to pass a nationwide law to ban social media for those under the age of 16. Here’s what you need to know about the ban:

Australia teen social media ban kicks in from Dec 10 – What’s allowed, what’s not?

Australia has officially started its landmark ban preventing children under the age of 16 from using major social media platforms, becoming the first country in the world to implement such sweeping restrictions. The law came into effect at midnight in Sydney, affecting roughly five million Australians under 16, including around one million aged between 10 and 15.&nbsp;Under the new rules, responsibility falls entirely on social media companies, which must take “reasonable steps” to ensure under-age users cannot create or access accounts. The government has encouraged platforms to rely on multiple age-verification tools, ranging from official IDs to facial or voice recognition systems.&nbsp;&nbsp;Anticipating the change, Meta, owner of Instagram, Facebook, and Threads, began removing Australian users under 16 last week. The company said complying with the law will require ongoing, multi-layered processes. Snapchat has outlined several verification options of its own, including bank account details, photo identification, and selfie-based checks.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-a-911-call-from-mcdonald-s-led-to-arrest-of-luigi-mangione-shooter-accused-of-killing-unitedhealthcare-s-ceo-1765280137698">How a 911 call from McDonald’s led to arrest of Luigi Mangione, shooter accused of killing UnitedHealthcare's CEO</a>&nbsp;How effective enforcement will be remains unclear. Workarounds such as VPNs, shared family accounts, or fake profiles may still provide unauthorised access. The ban applies to widely used platforms including Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, YouTube, Threads, X, Reddit, and streaming services like Kick and Twitch. However, child-oriented and educational services, such as YouTube Kids, Google Classroom, and messaging apps like WhatsApp, will still be accessible to younger users.&nbsp;The Australian government has described the move as a global first aimed at reducing online risks for children. But critics, including tech companies and teenagers, argue the policy may be difficult to enforce and could restrict young people’s digital freedoms. Companies that fail to comply face penalties of up to A$49.5 million. Governments worldwide are expected to watch closely as Australia becomes the testing ground for broad-scale age enforcement across social media platforms.

In a global first, Australia’s under-16 social media ban takes effect

Australia has officially started its landmark ban preventing children under the age of 16 from using major social media platforms, becoming the first country in the world to implement such sweeping restrictions. The law came into effect at midnight in Sydney, affecting roughly five million Australians under 16, including around one million aged between 10 and 15. Under the new rules, responsibility falls entirely on social media companies, which must take “reasonable steps” to ensure under-age users cannot create or access accounts. The government has encouraged platforms to rely on multiple age-verification tools, ranging from official IDs to facial or voice recognition systems. Anticipating the change, Meta, owner of Instagram, Facebook, and Threads, began removing Australian users under 16 last week. The company said complying with the law will require ongoing, multi-layered processes. Snapchat has outlined several verification options of its own, including bank account details, photo identification, and selfie-based checks. Also Read: How a 911 call from McDonald’s led to arrest of Luigi Mangione, shooter accused of killing UnitedHealthcare's CEO How effective enforcement will be remains unclear. Workarounds such as VPNs, shared family accounts, or fake profiles may still provide unauthorised access. The ban applies to widely used platforms including Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, YouTube, Threads, X, Reddit, and streaming services like Kick and Twitch. However, child-oriented and educational services, such as YouTube Kids, Google Classroom, and messaging apps like WhatsApp, will still be accessible to younger users. The Australian government has described the move as a global first aimed at reducing online risks for children. But critics, including tech companies and teenagers, argue the policy may be difficult to enforce and could restrict young people’s digital freedoms. Companies that fail to comply face penalties of up to A$49.5 million. Governments worldwide are expected to watch closely as Australia becomes the testing ground for broad-scale age enforcement across social media platforms.

Australia’s world-first legislation banning under-16s from using social media goes live, with tech companies tasked to enforce age restrictions to avoid heavy fines

The American political commentator, Nick Fuentes, after making racial slur at US Second Lady Usha Vance, defended himself on a podcast. He appeared on a Piers Morgan show and defended himself for making racist remarks against the Indian-origin wife of US VP JD Vance. Fuentes said in a podcast earlier for Usha, "Your guy is litteralky a fat, gay, race traitor that married a J***." &nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Piers Morgan asked Nick Fuentes about calling JD Vance’s wife a jeet 💀 <a href="https://t.co/3mE811UlQN">pic.twitter.com/3mE811UlQN</a>&mdash; 𝐆𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐝𝐮𝐬 (@ImperiumFirst) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImperiumFirst/status/1998106339026092444?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-wants-revenge-virologist-who-claimed-covid-was-developed-in-wuhan-says-beijing-is-using-her-family-to-lure-her-back-from-us-1765204872566">China wants REVENGE? Virologist, who claimed coronavirus was developed in Wuhan, says Beijing is using her family to 'lure' her back from US</a>&nbsp;When Morgan asked him what the meaning of the word was and why he used it for Usha, the "influencer" laughed. “You called JD Vance’s wife a j**t. What does that mean?” The Fuentes replied, “It’s a slur for Indians.” “Why would you use that?” Morgan asked, and Fuentes said, “Well... you want the honest answer.” At this point, the journalist said, “Cause you are a racist”, and the influencer burst out laughing, saying, “No, no.”&nbsp;In the nearly two-hour interview, Morgan confronted Fuentes about his controversial views on women and his personal life. "Just to clear up one of the many theories about you, I've no idea what the answer is and you haven't got to answer, but are you actually attracted to women?" Morgan said.&nbsp;"I am attracted to women… but I will say that women are very difficult to be around, so there's that,” Fuentes replied. He went on to express his opinions on women, saying they shouldn’t have the right to vote or they should stay at home.&nbsp;Later on, Morgan posted on X, “The guy literally admitted he’s a racist. I didn’t have to ‘gotcha’ him - he’s proud of it. Maybe you should have asked him about his racism in between all your softballs?”

In the nearly two-hour interview, Morgan confronted Fuentes about his controversial views on women and his personal life. 

The American political commentator, Nick Fuentes, after making racial slur at US Second Lady Usha Vance, defended himself on a podcast. He appeared on a Piers Morgan show and defended himself for making racist remarks against the Indian-origin wife of US VP JD Vance. Fuentes said in a podcast earlier for Usha, "Your guy is litteralky a fat, gay, race traitor that married a J***."

In the nearly two-hour interview, Morgan confronted Fuentes about his controversial views on women and his personal life.&nbsp;

'The guy is racist and is proud of it': Piers Morgan grills Nick Fuentes for calling Indian-origin Usha Vance a 'J**t'

US President Donald Trump has been fully briefed about the presence of an alien hybrid life form among us, claims David Grusch, a retired US intelligence officer and retired US Air Force Major. He suggests that the US Government has concealed UFO retrievals, non-human biological remains, and the existence of alien life for decades.&nbsp;David Grusch is a current advisor to Congress's UAP Task Force. In a recent interview, he claimed that Trump has received reports of all such activities, and he is aware of the origin of extraterritorial being and their intentions. He said that soon, Trump is going to become the 'most consequential leader in world history' by disclosing these details publicly.&nbsp;'Members of this current administration are very well aware of this reality. Certainly, the current president is very knowledgeable on this subject,' Grusch told Fox News.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">David Grusch,conseiller spécial du groupe de travail sur les <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAN</a>, affirme que <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> a été informé des preuves d&#39;intelligence non humaine <a href="https://t.co/pzOU6aLXjl">pic.twitter.com/pzOU6aLXjl</a>&mdash; Non Expusable/À Jour de Mes Loyers/AAH+80% (@Lenoblemarie1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lenoblemarie1/status/1998250937022812231?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

From 2019 to 2021, he represented the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) on the UAP Task Force, but later became a whistleblower after reportedly learning about the US government denying congressional oversight of matters related to extraterrestrials. Reportedly, Grusch has stated under oath to Congress in July 2023 that he is aware of the multi-decade UAP crash retrieval and reverse-engineering program. He alleged that the US government possesses "non-human" spacecraft and "non-human biologics" based on interviews with over 40 witnesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;Even though no such reports had been corroborated by the White House, the US Army or NASA and no physical evidence exists to verify these claims. But, on the Lex Fridman Podcast in September 2024, Trump claimed that he would declassify files on the aliens. “Sure, I’ll do that. I would do that. I’d love to do that. I have to do that,” said Trump. Missouri Congressman Eric Burlison also previously echoed the existence of at least four alien hybrid species that human secretly know about.&nbsp;

A UFO whistleblower claims Donald Trump was briefed on recovered non-human craft and possible alien biologics, sparking global debate and controversy.

US President Donald Trump has been fully briefed about the presence of an alien hybrid life form among us, claims David Grusch, a retired US intelligence officer and retired US Air Force Major. He suggests that the US Government has concealed UFO retrievals, non-human biological remains, and the existence of alien life for decades. David Grusch is a current advisor to Congress's UAP Task Force. In a recent interview, he claimed that Trump has received reports of all such activities, and he is aware of the origin of extraterritorial being and their intentions. He said that soon, Trump is going to become the 'most consequential leader in world history' by disclosing these details publicly. 'Members of this current administration are very well aware of this reality. Certainly, the current president is very knowledgeable on this subject,' Grusch told Fox News.

A UFO whistleblower claims Donald Trump was briefed on recovered non-human craft and possible alien biologics, sparking global debate and controversy.

Donald Trump was briefed about alien presence in US claims UFO whistleblower

Thousands of passengers are experiencing delays and cancellations on their rail journey on Tuesday as Storm Bram lashes the UK. The Met Office has predicted wind speeds reaching 90mph in northwest Scotland and rainfall up to 100mm across south Wales and south Devon.&nbsp;Amber weather warnings are in place for parts of southwest England, south Wales, and northwest Scotland, while yellow warnings for wind and rain extend across Northern Ireland, Northumberland and sections of northwest England.<h3>Flights were cancelled&nbsp;</h3>Travel disruption is widespread, with flights, ferries and rail services affected. Airports have grounded several flights, ferry operations have been halted, and speed restrictions are in force on rail routes in Scotland, according to a report in the Independent.&nbsp;British Airways cancelled its early domestic services from London Heathrow, while Belfast City Airport suspended at least 18 flights due to “adverse weather conditions.” Meanwhile, Dublin airport was also hit hard, where at least 42 flights were cancelled because of strong winds, including links with Paris and Amsterdam.&nbsp;In addition, Traffic Scotland predicted that several bridges closed around 2 pm on Tuesday, and they will remain shut till Wednesday evening due to high winds. These include Skye Bridge, Kessock Bridge, Dornoch Bridge and Cromarty Bridge.&nbsp;The Great Western Railway stated that due to flooding, the line between Par and Newquay is closed. It added: “Train services running to and from these stations will be cancelled. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, thousands of homes across the UK are currently experiencing a shortage of power, according to the National Grid. Based on the map of the National Grid's website, nearly 4,100 properties have been hit by power outages in England and Wales as of 12:30 GMT. However, the cause of these power cuts is still unknown.

British Airways cancelled its early domestic services from London Heathrow, while Belfast City Airport suspended at least 18 flights due to “adverse weather conditions.” 

Thousands of passengers are experiencing delays and cancellations on their rail journey on Tuesday as Storm Bram lashes the UK. The Met Office has predicted wind speeds reaching 90mph in northwest Scotland and rainfall up to 100mm across south Wales and south Devon. Amber weather warnings are in place for parts of southwest England, south Wales, and northwest Scotland, while yellow warnings for wind and rain extend across Northern Ireland, Northumberland and sections of northwest England. Flights were cancelled Travel disruption is widespread, with flights, ferries and rail services affected. Airports have grounded several flights, ferry operations have been halted, and speed restrictions are in force on rail routes in Scotland, according to a report in the Independent. British Airways cancelled its early domestic services from London Heathrow, while Belfast City Airport suspended at least 18 flights due to “adverse weather conditions.” Meanwhile, Dublin airport was also hit hard, where at least 42 flights were cancelled because of strong winds, including links with Paris and Amsterdam. In addition, Traffic Scotland predicted that several bridges closed around 2 pm on Tuesday, and they will remain shut till Wednesday evening due to high winds. These include Skye Bridge, Kessock Bridge, Dornoch Bridge and Cromarty Bridge. The Great Western Railway stated that due to flooding, the line between Par and Newquay is closed. It added: “Train services running to and from these stations will be cancelled. Disruption is expected until the end of the day.” Meanwhile, thousands of homes across the UK are currently experiencing a shortage of power, according to the National Grid. Based on the map of the National Grid's website, nearly 4,100 properties have been hit by power outages in England and Wales as of 12:30 GMT. However, the cause of these power cuts is still unknown.

British Airways cancelled its early domestic services from London Heathrow, while Belfast City Airport suspended at least 18 flights due to “adverse weather conditions.”&nbsp;

Dozens of flights cancelled, rail services disrupted as Storm Bram batters UK & Ireland

A year ago today, the manager of a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, found herself on the phone with 911, albeit somewhat reluctantly, after a concerned customer raised an alarm. The customer had been suspicious of a man sitting alone in the back of the restaurant, thinking he resembled the shooter responsible for a recent CEO murder in New York City. The manager explained to the 911 operator, “It’s not really an emergency,” but went on to describe the man wearing a black jacket, a tan beanie, and a medical mask.&nbsp;“OK,” the operator responded, unsure of the situation but sending officers nonetheless. As it turned out, the man was none other than Luigi Mangione, a suspect in the high-profile shooting of Brian Thompson, a healthcare CEO. Mangione’s arrest in Altoona on December 9, 2024, followed a five-day manhunt. The details surrounding his capture, including McDonald’s surveillance footage and bodycam videos from the responding officers, were later revealed in court, shedding light on how a fast-food restaurant turned into the center of a national case.<h2>A skeptical response from police</h2>The call about a suspicious customer caught the attention of Altoona Police Officer Joseph Detwiler, who, along with rookie officer Tyler Frye, was dispatched to the scene. Detwiler was initially unimpressed with the tip. “I didn’t think it was going to be him,” he said later in court. They didn’t rush to the scene, even driving without sirens, and were not sure what to expect. When they arrived at the McDonald’s at 9:29 am, they approached a man sitting alone, eating a meal and wearing the same description provided by the manager. Officer Detwiler asked him to pull down his mask, and immediately recognized him as the suspect from news reports about the shooting.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/florida-governor-ron-desantis-declared-cair-a-foreign-terrorist-organisation-1765277442468">Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared CAIR, a 'foreign terrorist organisation'</a>&nbsp;“You seem a little nervous right now,” Detwiler said, prompting the man, who had initially identified himself as "Mark Rosario," to remain silent during questioning. The officers ran the ID provided and confirmed it belonged to a man from New Jersey.<h2>A conversation over breakfast</h2>Despite Detwiler's certainty, the police remained cautious, continuing the questioning. At one point, the officers casually discussed food while Mangione quietly ate his hash brown, hoping to keep the situation normal. Detwiler even commented on the breakfast sandwich Mangione was eating, calling it his favorite. While the officers waited for confirmation, the sound of Christmas carols filled the air, including “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” and “Jingle Bell Rock,” as Detwiler made small talk to buy time before backup arrived. Mangione, however, remained mostly silent as he finished his meal.<h2>Confirming the identity</h2>Around 9:41 am, Officer Tom Hanelly arrived and took charge. Detwiler, now confident that Mangione was the murder suspect, moved to a more direct approach, asking the man again about his whereabouts. When Mangione finally admitted his true identity, he hesitated before saying, “Luigi Mangione.” At this point, the officers knew they had their suspect, but they still had to gather more information. Mangione was read his Miranda rights, which he acknowledged. Still, when offered a chance to speak further, Mangione declined.<h2>The arrest</h2>Soon after, other officers began searching Mangione’s belongings. A 3D-printed gun was discovered in his backpack, reportedly matching the firearm used in the Manhattan shooting. As officers continued their investigation, Mangione’s casual demeanor seemed to stand in contrast to the gravity of the situation.&nbsp;The arrest was finalized as the Christmas music continued to play in the background. At 10:00 am, Mangione, now in handcuffs, was escorted out of the McDonald’s while “Have a Holly Jolly Christmas” echoed through the restaurant.The arrest was a pivotal moment in the manhunt for Mangione, whose alleged role in the high-profile shooting in Manhattan sparked nationwide conversations about the healthcare industry and its injustices. Now facing charges including second-degree murder, Mangione is awaiting trial in both state and federal courts.

How a 911 call from McDonald’s led to arrest of Luigi Mangione, shooter accused of killing UnitedHealthcare's CEO

A year ago today, the manager of a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, found herself on the phone with 911, albeit somewhat reluctantly, after a concerned customer raised an alarm. The customer had been suspicious of a man sitting alone in the back of the restaurant, thinking he resembled the shooter responsible for a recent CEO murder in New York City. The manager explained to the 911 operator, “It’s not really an emergency,” but went on to describe the man wearing a black jacket, a tan beanie, and a medical mask. “OK,” the operator responded, unsure of the situation but sending officers nonetheless. As it turned out, the man was none other than Luigi Mangione, a suspect in the high-profile shooting of Brian Thompson, a healthcare CEO. Mangione’s arrest in Altoona on December 9, 2024, followed a five-day manhunt. The details surrounding his capture, including McDonald’s surveillance footage and bodycam videos from the responding officers, were later revealed in court, shedding light on how a fast-food restaurant turned into the center of a national case. A skeptical response from police The call about a suspicious customer caught the attention of Altoona Police Officer Joseph Detwiler, who, along with rookie officer Tyler Frye, was dispatched to the scene. Detwiler was initially unimpressed with the tip. “I didn’t think it was going to be him,” he said later in court. They didn’t rush to the scene, even driving without sirens, and were not sure what to expect. When they arrived at the McDonald’s at 9:29 am, they approached a man sitting alone, eating a meal and wearing the same description provided by the manager. Officer Detwiler asked him to pull down his mask, and immediately recognized him as the suspect from news reports about the shooting. Also Read: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared CAIR, a 'foreign terrorist organisation' “You seem a little nervous right now,” Detwiler said, prompting the man, who had initially identified himself as "Mark Rosario," to remain silent during questioning. The officers ran the ID provided and confirmed it belonged to a man from New Jersey. A conversation over breakfast Despite Detwiler's certainty, the police remained cautious, continuing the questioning. At one point, the officers casually discussed food while Mangione quietly ate his hash brown, hoping to keep the situation normal. Detwiler even commented on the breakfast sandwich Mangione was eating, calling it his favorite. While the officers waited for confirmation, the sound of Christmas carols filled the air, including “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” and “Jingle Bell Rock,” as Detwiler made small talk to buy time before backup arrived. Mangione, however, remained mostly silent as he finished his meal. Confirming the identity Around 9:41 am, Officer Tom Hanelly arrived and took charge. Detwiler, now confident that Mangione was the murder suspect, moved to a more direct approach, asking the man again about his whereabouts. When Mangione finally admitted his true identity, he hesitated before saying, “Luigi Mangione.” At this point, the officers knew they had their suspect, but they still had to gather more information. Mangione was read his Miranda rights, which he acknowledged. Still, when offered a chance to speak further, Mangione declined. The arrest Soon after, other officers began searching Mangione’s belongings. A 3D-printed gun was discovered in his backpack, reportedly matching the firearm used in the Manhattan shooting. As officers continued their investigation, Mangione’s casual demeanor seemed to stand in contrast to the gravity of the situation. The arrest was finalized as the Christmas music continued to play in the background. At 10:00 am, Mangione, now in handcuffs, was escorted out of the McDonald’s while “Have a Holly Jolly Christmas” echoed through the restaurant. The arrest was a pivotal moment in the manhunt for Mangione, whose alleged role in the high-profile shooting in Manhattan sparked nationwide conversations about the healthcare industry and its injustices. Now facing charges including second-degree murder, Mangione is awaiting trial in both state and federal courts.

A year ago, a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, became the unlikely location where Luigi Mangione, accused of a CEO murder, was arrested after a tip from a customer

Scientists in Thailand have uncovered more mysteries in the world of blood, beyond the commonly available blood groups, A, B, O, AB, with the Rh factor that determines positive and negative. They have found three individuals worldwide with hybrid B(A) blood type, one patient and two blood donors, after testing more than 544,000 blood samples. This is a genetic quirk found in approximately 0.00055 per cent of people.&nbsp;<h2>How are blood types determined?</h2>Blood types are identified by the antigens, or proteins/ sugars/lipids, which trigger an immune response when an alien object is found in the body. A-antigen has N-acetylgalactosamine as a dominant sugar, B-antigen is dominated by the sugar D-galactose, AB has both, O positive has rhesus or Rh, O negative has none of the above. For a successful blood transfusion, the Antigen of the donor have to match the Antigen of the receiver. This is why O-negative is a universal donor, as it lacks neither A nor B antigen, nor the Rh(D) antigen. All this information is encoded in the ABO gene of the ninth chromosome.&nbsp;<h2>What is B(A) blood type?</h2>The B(A) blood type is a genetic mutation of the ABO gene; the researchers found four variations of the ABO gene in these individuals. These variants modify the enzyme (glycosyltransferase) responsible for building antigen structures in red blood cells. So their red cells show a typical Type B profile but also express trace amounts of A-antigen. Meaning it is not fit for A/B/AB/O transfusion.&nbsp;<h2>What are other rare blood types?</h2>O-ve blood group is found among only 7 per cent of the population in the world. While only 50 individuals have Rh-ve blood, completely devoid of Rh-antigen. In 2025, a 38-year-old woman in Kolar, Bengaluru, was found to have a blood group CRIB. In the same year, a European individual was discovered who had Gwada-negative blood, so unique that no compatible donor exists.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Scientists in Thailand have identified a rare B(A) hybrid blood type in just three people. Learn how blood types are determined and other rare blood groups like Rh-null, CRIB, and Gwada-negative.

Scientists in Thailand have uncovered more mysteries in the world of blood, beyond the commonly available blood groups, A, B, O, AB, with the Rh factor that determines positive and negative. They have found three individuals worldwide with hybrid B(A) blood type, one patient and two blood donors, after testing more than 544,000 blood samples. This is a genetic quirk found in approximately 0.00055 per cent of people. How are blood types determined? Blood types are identified by the antigens, or proteins/ sugars/lipids, which trigger an immune response when an alien object is found in the body. A-antigen has N-acetylgalactosamine as a dominant sugar, B-antigen is dominated by the sugar D-galactose, AB has both, O positive has rhesus or Rh, O negative has none of the above. For a successful blood transfusion, the Antigen of the donor have to match the Antigen of the receiver. This is why O-negative is a universal donor, as it lacks neither A nor B antigen, nor the Rh(D) antigen. All this information is encoded in the ABO gene of the ninth chromosome. What is B(A) blood type? The B(A) blood type is a genetic mutation of the ABO gene; the researchers found four variations of the ABO gene in these individuals. These variants modify the enzyme (glycosyltransferase) responsible for building antigen structures in red blood cells. So their red cells show a typical Type B profile but also express trace amounts of A-antigen. Meaning it is not fit for A/B/AB/O transfusion. What are other rare blood types? O-ve blood group is found among only 7 per cent of the population in the world. While only 50 individuals have Rh-ve blood, completely devoid of Rh-antigen. In 2025, a 38-year-old woman in Kolar, Bengaluru, was found to have a blood group CRIB. In the same year, a European individual was discovered who had Gwada-negative blood, so unique that no compatible donor exists.

Scientists in Thailand have identified a rare B(A) hybrid blood type in just three people. Learn how blood types are determined and other rare blood groups like Rh-null, CRIB, and Gwada-negative.

Scientists discover world's rarest blood group found only in 3 people

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a charged speech at Israeli Parliament, the Knesset, on Monday (Dec 08), defended his leadership during a difficult period, asserting that despite a strong wave of anti-semitism against the Jewish state, he was able to garner support from several countries and world leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;He was speaking during a '40-signature debate', a parliamentary mechanism through which the opposition can compel the Prime Minister to appear once a month at the Knesset forum. Netanyahu strongly defended the policies of his government on various domains, including Israel's foreign relations. Israel is today stronger than ever," he claimed.&nbsp;The Israeli Premier dismissed the opposition's assertion as “the collapse of Israel’s international standing,” saying that the country diplomatically, militarily, and economically remains a dominant player in the international arena despite its two-year-long war with Hamas.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-responsible-for-nearly-half-journalist-killings-in-2025-rsf-report-1765277861534">Israel responsible for nearly half journalist killings in 2025: RSF report</a>&nbsp;Highlighting his ties with global leaders, Netanyahu said that Israel is stronger than ever, and is the strongest power in the Middle East, and in certain fields, it is a global power. He credited this to his leadership during the war of revival. The Israeli government decided to name the war in Gaza as 'War of Revival' that began with Hamas' attack on its territory on October 7, 2023.&nbsp;Netanyahu insisted that Israel’s diplomatic position remained strong, citing the visit of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz this week, which he said took place at Merz’s own request. He added that other major powers were also engaging with Israel. “I speak often with my old friend, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We have planned to meet soon, and I can tell you, India, a nation of 1.5 billion people, also wants to deepen its ties with us,” he said.&nbsp;Continuing his defence, Netanyahu mocked claims of Israel’s supposed political isolation. “At the end of the month, I will travel to the United States for another meeting with my friend, President Donald Trump,” he said. “It will be my sixth meeting with the US President since he took office in January, more than any other leader.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-goa-nightclub-blaze-delhi-hospitality-sector-under-lens-as-only-52-hotels-38-clubs-have-fire-safety-clearance-1765274277498">After Goa nightclub blaze, Delhi hospitality sector under lens as only 52 hotels &amp; 38 clubs have fire safety clearance</a>&nbsp;He stressed that Israel stands up for its vital interests whenever required. “The US and Israel are two independent nations with a partnership built on shared values and shared interests that have only grown stronger,” he said. “Israel has no better ally than the United States, and the United States has no better ally than Israel.”&nbsp;Netanyahu has long highlighted his personal rapport with world leaders during his election campaigns, often showcasing images of his meetings with Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Modi at the Likud party headquarters.

The Israeli Premier dismissed the opposition's assertion of 'the collapse of Israel’s international standing,' saying that the country diplomatically, militarily, and economically remains a dominant player in the international arena despite its two-year-long war with Hamas.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a charged speech at Israeli Parliament, the Knesset, on Monday (Dec 08), defended his leadership during a difficult period, asserting that despite a strong wave of anti-semitism against the Jewish state, he was able to garner support from several countries and world leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He was speaking during a '40-signature debate', a parliamentary mechanism through which the opposition can compel the Prime Minister to appear once a month at the Knesset forum. Netanyahu strongly defended the policies of his government on various domains, including Israel's foreign relations. Israel is today stronger than ever," he claimed. The Israeli Premier dismissed the opposition's assertion as “the collapse of Israel’s international standing,” saying that the country diplomatically, militarily, and economically remains a dominant player in the international arena despite its two-year-long war with Hamas. Also Read: Israel responsible for nearly half journalist killings in 2025: RSF report Highlighting his ties with global leaders, Netanyahu said that Israel is stronger than ever, and is the strongest power in the Middle East, and in certain fields, it is a global power. He credited this to his leadership during the war of revival. The Israeli government decided to name the war in Gaza as 'War of Revival' that began with Hamas' attack on its territory on October 7, 2023. Netanyahu insisted that Israel’s diplomatic position remained strong, citing the visit of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz this week, which he said took place at Merz’s own request. He added that other major powers were also engaging with Israel. “I speak often with my old friend, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We have planned to meet soon, and I can tell you, India, a nation of 1.5 billion people, also wants to deepen its ties with us,” he said. Continuing his defence, Netanyahu mocked claims of Israel’s supposed political isolation. “At the end of the month, I will travel to the United States for another meeting with my friend, President Donald Trump,” he said. “It will be my sixth meeting with the US President since he took office in January, more than any other leader.” Also Read: After Goa nightclub blaze, Delhi hospitality sector under lens as only 52 hotels & 38 clubs have fire safety clearance He stressed that Israel stands up for its vital interests whenever required. “The US and Israel are two independent nations with a partnership built on shared values and shared interests that have only grown stronger,” he said. “Israel has no better ally than the United States, and the United States has no better ally than Israel.” Netanyahu has long highlighted his personal rapport with world leaders during his election campaigns, often showcasing images of his meetings with Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Modi at the Likud party headquarters.

The Israeli Premier dismissed the opposition's assertion of ‘the collapse of Israel’s international standing,’ saying that the country diplomatically, militarily, and economically remains a dominant player in the international arena despite its two-year-long war with Hamas.

Facing criticism over Gaza war, Netanyahu invokes ties with PM Modi, others to assert leadership

Pakistan is under boil as a massive protest erupted in Karachi with demonstrators having a huge demand - &nbsp;a separate Sindhudesh. The demand has led to violence in the country, leading to stone pelting, vandalism and an intense clash with police. It all started on Sunday (Dec 7) &nbsp;after protesters hit the streets on Sindhi Culture Day, demanding a separate Sindhudesh. A pool of &nbsp;Sindhis, under the banner Jiye Sindh Muttahida Mahaz (JSSM), raised slogans of "Azadi" (freedom) and "Pakistan Murdabad". They demanded the liberation of Sindh, amplifying a longstanding sentiment of Sindhi nationalist parties.&nbsp;The history of Sindh province&nbsp;The region is an area near the Indus River. It went to Pakistan following the Partition in 1947. &nbsp;The name "Sindhudesh" was taken from the Hindu mythology Mahabharata, in which it is the name of modern Sindh, the third-largest Pakistani province.&nbsp;The ongoing tensions&nbsp;The tensions escalate after authorities diverted the rally route, angering thousands of protesters. The police resorted to tear gas shelling to disperse the crowd. As per reports, at least 45 people have been nabbed in the protest.&nbsp;Dawn reported that five police personnel were injured in the violence. The government directed the police to identify and arrest those involved in damaging property and vandalising police vehicles.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a> Mass protests in Karachi demanding Sindhudesh. The truth is simple: Sindh was never truly Pakistan. It’s part of the same civilizational fold as Bharat ,history proves it every time.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreeSindh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreeSindh</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SindhudeshMovement?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SindhudeshMovement</a> <a href="https://t.co/6IhwZMHSGT">pic.twitter.com/6IhwZMHSGT</a>&mdash; TRIDENT (@TridentxIN) <a href="https://twitter.com/TridentxIN/status/1997920351330963598?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This came a week after a Pakistani news channel aired a discussion in which a journalist and an expert claimed that MQM (Muttahida Qaumi Movement) chief Altaf Hussain once told former Sindh home minister Zulfiqar Mirza that after the passage of the 18th Amendment, "the Sindhudesh card is now in our hands".&nbsp;Fact check&nbsp;Amid the social media claims and videos, an X account, claiming to be an independent fact-check organisation of Pakistan, claimed that there is no such protest going on and the claims are false.&nbsp;WION can not independently verify either of the claims.&nbsp;&nbsp;Indian stance on Sindh&nbsp;Last month, the Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh made a huge statement on the India-Pakistan border, saying that the Singh region "may return to India". After the partition, people who used to reside in that region, Sindhis, came to India. Singh said that Sindhi Hindus, especially from the generation of leaders like LK Advani, have never accepted the separation of the Sindh region from India.&nbsp;"I'd also like to mention that Lal Krishna Advani wrote in one of his books that Sindhi Hindus, especially those of his generation, still haven't accepted the separation of Sindh from India," the Indian defence minister said.&nbsp;"Not just in Sindh, but throughout India, Hindus consider the Indus River sacred. Many Muslims in Sindh also believed that the water of the Indus was no less sacred than the Aab-e-Zamzam of Mecca. This is Advani ji's quote," he added.

Dawn reported that five police personnel were injured in the violence. The government directed the police to identify and arrest those involved in damaging property and vandalising police vehicles.



Pakistan is under boil as a massive protest erupted in Karachi with demonstrators having a huge demand - a separate Sindhudesh. The demand has led to violence in the country, leading to stone pelting, vandalism and an intense clash with police. It all started on Sunday (Dec 7) after protesters hit the streets on Sindhi Culture Day, demanding a separate Sindhudesh. A pool of Sindhis, under the banner Jiye Sindh Muttahida Mahaz (JSSM), raised slogans of "Azadi" (freedom) and "Pakistan Murdabad". They demanded the liberation of Sindh, amplifying a longstanding sentiment of Sindhi nationalist parties. The history of Sindh province The region is an area near the Indus River. It went to Pakistan following the Partition in 1947. The name "Sindhudesh" was taken from the Hindu mythology Mahabharata, in which it is the name of modern Sindh, the third-largest Pakistani province. The ongoing tensions The tensions escalate after authorities diverted the rally route, angering thousands of protesters. The police resorted to tear gas shelling to disperse the crowd. As per reports, at least 45 people have been nabbed in the protest. Dawn reported that five police personnel were injured in the violence. The government directed the police to identify and arrest those involved in damaging property and vandalising police vehicles.

Dawn reported that five police personnel were injured in the violence. The government directed the police to identify and arrest those involved in damaging property and vandalising police vehicles.&nbsp;

What's happening in Pakistan? Karachi is ‘under violence’, protestors demand separate ‘Sindhudesh’

Pakistan on Tuesday welcomed the release of a further $1.2 billion in loans from the International Monetary Fund to help its economic recovery and reforms programme, calling it evidence of "hard work" undertaken after two years of financial crisis.The IMF approved the funds at a Washington meeting on Monday, bringing the total amount provided under two loan facilities -- a bailout fund and a climate sustainability fund -- to $3.3 billion."Pakistan's reform implementation... has helped preserve macroeconomic stability in the face of several recent shocks" such as devastating flooding last summer, the fund's deputy managing director Nigel Clarke said in a statement.Economic growth is projected to rise to 3.2 per cent in the fiscal year to June 2026, after an estimated 3.0 per cent last year.Inflation, meanwhile, is set to average 6.3 per cent this fiscal year, a huge drop from the 23.4 per cent average in the year to June 2024.But Clarke also called for further overhauls and privatisations of state-owned firms, and continued investment in climate projects to reduce "vulnerability to extreme weather events".New efforts to combat endemic corruption are also needed, Clarke said, while welcoming a recent government-commissioned report on fraud as a "welcome step in accelerating government reforms".In a statement, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called the new loans "proof that Pakistan is implementing the necessary steps for economic stability and growth"."Bringing the country back from the brink of default and putting it on the path of stability and development was a difficult phase, for which everyone made sacrifices."Pakistan nearly defaulted on its massive debt in 2023 before securing the IMF bailout, called the Extended Fund Facility, which is to total $7 billion in the coming years.As part of the deal, it also pledged to tackle corruption, including money-laundering and alleged financing of terrorism in the country.In November, the IMF published a review conducted at the request of the Pakistani government, which found "persistent and widespread corruption risks embedded in a heavily state-dominated economy".It noted the "significant adverse effects on economic growth, investment, and public trust", urging "actions to advance the rule of law and the functioning of anticorruption institutions".The South Asian nation is one of the largest debtors to the IMF after Argentina and Ukraine. It also secured a 10-year, $20 billion financing package from the World Bank in January.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.

In November, the IMF published a review conducted at the request of the Pakistani government, which found "persistent and widespread corruption risks embedded in a heavily state-dominated economy".

Pakistan on Tuesday welcomed the release of a further $1.2 billion in loans from the International Monetary Fund to help its economic recovery and reforms programme, calling it evidence of "hard work" undertaken after two years of financial crisis. The IMF approved the funds at a Washington meeting on Monday, bringing the total amount provided under two loan facilities -- a bailout fund and a climate sustainability fund -- to $3.3 billion. "Pakistan's reform implementation... has helped preserve macroeconomic stability in the face of several recent shocks" such as devastating flooding last summer, the fund's deputy managing director Nigel Clarke said in a statement. Economic growth is projected to rise to 3.2 per cent in the fiscal year to June 2026, after an estimated 3.0 per cent last year. Inflation, meanwhile, is set to average 6.3 per cent this fiscal year, a huge drop from the 23.4 per cent average in the year to June 2024. But Clarke also called for further overhauls and privatisations of state-owned firms, and continued investment in climate projects to reduce "vulnerability to extreme weather events". New efforts to combat endemic corruption are also needed, Clarke said, while welcoming a recent government-commissioned report on fraud as a "welcome step in accelerating government reforms". In a statement, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called the new loans "proof that Pakistan is implementing the necessary steps for economic stability and growth". "Bringing the country back from the brink of default and putting it on the path of stability and development was a difficult phase, for which everyone made sacrifices." Pakistan nearly defaulted on its massive debt in 2023 before securing the IMF bailout, called the Extended Fund Facility, which is to total $7 billion in the coming years. As part of the deal, it also pledged to tackle corruption, including money-laundering and alleged financing of terrorism in the country. In November, the IMF published a review conducted at the request of the Pakistani government, which found "persistent and widespread corruption risks embedded in a heavily state-dominated economy". It noted the "significant adverse effects on economic growth, investment, and public trust", urging "actions to advance the rule of law and the functioning of anticorruption institutions". The South Asian nation is one of the largest debtors to the IMF after Argentina and Ukraine. It also secured a 10-year, $20 billion financing package from the World Bank in January. 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.

In November, the IMF published a review conducted at the request of the Pakistani government, which found "persistent and widespread corruption risks embedded in a heavily state-dominated economy".

IMF board approves $1.2 billion funding to Pakistan

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What's happening in Pakistan? Karachi is ‘under violence’ for...

IMF board approves $1.2 billion funding to Pakistan