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Russian President Vladimir Putin has vowed not to stop its attack on Ukraine until Moscow "achieves it goals". In an interview to a news channel in India, Putin blamed the West for instigating the war. He said that it was Ukraine's action under the influence of the western powers that forced Russia to take the extreme step.&nbsp;"Our special military operation isn't the start of a war, but rather an attempt to end one that the West ignited using Ukrainian nationalists," said Putin in an interview to media house India Today.&nbsp;He then went on to say that the war with Kyiv will end only when Russia takes back "it's territories" or the Ukrainian troops withdraw from those regions.&nbsp;“All this boils down to one thing: Either we take back these territories by force, or eventually Ukrainian troops withdraw,” he added.&nbsp;ALSO READ:&nbsp; India-US trade deal soon? Officials from Washington expected to visit New Delhi next week&nbsp;Putin also pointed out that Ukraine has banned the Russian language in several territories and has driven people away from temples, churches, so it is important that Moscow protects its interest."The point is that Russia is determined and will certainly do so to protect its interests, protect its people living there, protect our traditional values, the Russian language, and so on," Putin said while speaking to the media house.<h2>Putin's visit to India</h2>Vladimir Putin is on a two day visit two India. This is his first visit to the country after the Russia-Ukraine war. He landed in New Delhi on Thursday evening (December 4) and the formal engagements will begin on Friday (December 5), starting with a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan. During this visit, India and Russia are looking forward to several agreements including defence cooperation, nuclear energy projects, trade expansion frameworks, and advanced technology partnerships. &nbsp;

Putin went on to say that the war with Kyiv will end only when Russia takes back its territories or the Ukrainian troops withdraw from those regions.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has vowed not to stop its attack on Ukraine until Moscow "achieves it goals". In an interview to a news channel in India, Putin blamed the West for instigating the war. He said that it was Ukraine's action under the influence of the western powers that forced Russia to take the extreme step. "Our special military operation isn't the start of a war, but rather an attempt to end one that the West ignited using Ukrainian nationalists," said Putin in an interview to media house India Today. He then went on to say that the war with Kyiv will end only when Russia takes back "it's territories" or the Ukrainian troops withdraw from those regions. “All this boils down to one thing: Either we take back these territories by force, or eventually Ukrainian troops withdraw,” he added. ALSO READ: India-US trade deal soon? Officials from Washington expected to visit New Delhi next week Putin also pointed out that Ukraine has banned the Russian language in several territories and has driven people away from temples, churches, so it is important that Moscow protects its interest. "The point is that Russia is determined and will certainly do so to protect its interests, protect its people living there, protect our traditional values, the Russian language, and so on," Putin said while speaking to the media house. Putin's visit to India Vladimir Putin is on a two day visit two India. This is his first visit to the country after the Russia-Ukraine war. He landed in New Delhi on Thursday evening (December 4) and the formal engagements will begin on Friday (December 5), starting with a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan. During this visit, India and Russia are looking forward to several agreements including defence cooperation, nuclear energy projects, trade expansion frameworks, and advanced technology partnerships.

Putin went on to say that the war with Kyiv will end only when Russia takes back "it's territories" or the Ukrainian troops withdraw from those regions.

Ukraine's action under the influence of western powers led to war, says Putin

A team of US representatives is reportedly expected to visit India next week to hold talks on reaching a bilateral trade agreement. Reports suggested that dates for the negotiations are being finalised and discussions have begun between New Delhi and Washington. The visit by the US officials would be the second since US President Donald Trump imposed 50 per cent tariffs on the Asian nation, citing its Russian oil purchases. A US team had earlier visited New Delhi on September 16.“The team is likely to come next week. Dates are being finalised, and discussions are on,” news agency PTI reported, citing sources.Earlier on September 22, an Indian delegation led by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal also visited the United States for trade talks. He was also accompanied by the then special secretary in the ministry, Rajesh Agrawal and other officials. Agrawal is now the country’s commerce secretary. The US delegation was led by Chief Negotiator Brendan Lynch. Goyal had also met with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick in Washington earlier in May.Bloomberg reported, citing a US official, that the US delegations for the upcoming talks will be led by Deputy US Trade Representative Rick Switzer.Last week, Indian Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal said, “We are very optimistic and hopeful that we should find some solution this calendar year.” He added, “What needs to come out first is a framework trade deal which is able to address the reciprocal tariffs.”Trump said last month that he would lower the tariffs on Indian goods “at some point”, adding that the two nations were “pretty close” to reaching a trade agreement.Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is currently on a visit to India, said that if Washington is permitted to buy Russian nuclear fuel for its power plants, New Delhi should similarly have the right to purchase Russian energy resources.“As for India’s purchase of energy resources from Russia, I would like to note and have already mentioned publicly this once, the United States itself still buys nuclear fuel from us for its own nuclear power plants,” Putin said on Thursday (Dec 4). “That is also fuel, Uranium for the reactors operating in the United States. If the US has the right to buy our fuel, why shouldn't India have the same privilege?”

Earlier on September 22, an Indian delegation led by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal also visited the United States for trade talks.

A team of US representatives is reportedly expected to visit India next week to hold talks on reaching a bilateral trade agreement. Reports suggested that dates for the negotiations are being finalised and discussions have begun between New Delhi and Washington. The visit by the US officials would be the second since US President Donald Trump imposed 50 per cent tariffs on the Asian nation, citing its Russian oil purchases. A US team had earlier visited New Delhi on September 16. “The team is likely to come next week. Dates are being finalised, and discussions are on,” news agency PTI reported, citing sources. Earlier on September 22, an Indian delegation led by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal also visited the United States for trade talks. He was also accompanied by the then special secretary in the ministry, Rajesh Agrawal and other officials. Agrawal is now the country’s commerce secretary. The US delegation was led by Chief Negotiator Brendan Lynch. Goyal had also met with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick in Washington earlier in May. Bloomberg reported, citing a US official, that the US delegations for the upcoming talks will be led by Deputy US Trade Representative Rick Switzer. Last week, Indian Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal said, “We are very optimistic and hopeful that we should find some solution this calendar year.” He added, “What needs to come out first is a framework trade deal which is able to address the reciprocal tariffs.” Trump said last month that he would lower the tariffs on Indian goods “at some point”, adding that the two nations were “pretty close” to reaching a trade agreement. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is currently on a visit to India, said that if Washington is permitted to buy Russian nuclear fuel for its power plants, New Delhi should similarly have the right to purchase Russian energy resources. “As for India’s purchase of energy resources from Russia, I would like to note and have already mentioned publicly this once, the United States itself still buys nuclear fuel from us for its own nuclear power plants,” Putin said on Thursday (Dec 4). “That is also fuel, Uranium for the reactors operating in the United States. If the US has the right to buy our fuel, why shouldn't India have the same privilege?”

Earlier on September 22, an Indian delegation led by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal also visited the United States for trade talks.

India-US trade deal soon? Officials from Washington expected to visit New Delhi next week

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Dec 4) gifted Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is currently on a two-day visit to India, a copy of the Bhagavat Gita in Russian. Modi later shared a photo of the moment on X, describing the holy text as a source of inspiration for millions of people across the world.<h2>Modi-Putin bromance and a gift</h2>Posting a photo of the moment when he handed over the Hindu scripture to the visiting President, PM Modi wrote, “Presented a copy of the Gita in Russian to President Putin. The teachings of the Gita give inspiration to millions across the world.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/india-russia-summit-2025-as-putin-heads-to-delhi-russian-dancers-go-viral-dancing-to-this-punjabi-hit-watch-viral-video-here-1764834347922">As Putin heads to Delhi, Russian dancers go viral dancing to THIS Punjabi hit. Watch video here</a>Putin arrived in Delhi on Thursday evening and was greeted at the airport by Modi. The two leaders then rode together to the PM's residence on Lok Kalyan Marg, a short trip that highlighted the partnership and close relationship the two leaders share.This is Putin's first trip to India in four years. He will stay in Delhi until December 5 and hold the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit with Modi, a meeting that usually sets the tone for the year ahead. With both countries facing shifting geopolitical pressures, every word and handshake is being watched closely.Analysts have been quick to frame the visit as more than just a symbolic reunion. They say it could push forward cooperation in defence, trade, technology, culture, and other areas that have quietly kept both countries tied together for decades.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-largest-state-abduction-operation-in-history-un-demands-russia-return-thousands-of-captive-ukrainian-children-1764815231216">'Largest state abduction operation in history': UN demands Russia return thousands of captive Ukrainian children</a>Former diplomat Arun Singh, who served two postings in Moscow, spoke about the long arc of the relationship. He said India’s memory of Russian political backing still runs deep, especially the support shown at key moments on the world stage, including at the UN Security Council. Talking to ANI, he said that the sense of trust goes both ways. I could sense that there is a historical nature to the partnership," he said. "There is a confidence in the relationship on both sides. In India, there is a memory of Russia being an important partner which has provided political support that we've needed from time to time, including at the UN Security Council," he added.

Indian PM Narendra Modi gifts Russian President Vladimir Putin a Russian edition of the Bhagavad Gita as the Russian leader arrives in Delhi for a two-day visit.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Dec 4) gifted Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is currently on a two-day visit to India, a copy of the Bhagavat Gita in Russian. Modi later shared a photo of the moment on X, describing the holy text as a source of inspiration for millions of people across the world. Modi-Putin bromance and a gift Posting a photo of the moment when he handed over the Hindu scripture to the visiting President, PM Modi wrote, “Presented a copy of the Gita in Russian to President Putin. The teachings of the Gita give inspiration to millions across the world.” Also read | As Putin heads to Delhi, Russian dancers go viral dancing to THIS Punjabi hit. Watch video here Putin arrived in Delhi on Thursday evening and was greeted at the airport by Modi. The two leaders then rode together to the PM's residence on Lok Kalyan Marg, a short trip that highlighted the partnership and close relationship the two leaders share. This is Putin's first trip to India in four years. He will stay in Delhi until December 5 and hold the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit with Modi, a meeting that usually sets the tone for the year ahead. With both countries facing shifting geopolitical pressures, every word and handshake is being watched closely. Analysts have been quick to frame the visit as more than just a symbolic reunion. They say it could push forward cooperation in defence, trade, technology, culture, and other areas that have quietly kept both countries tied together for decades. Also read | 'Largest state abduction operation in history': UN demands Russia return thousands of captive Ukrainian children Former diplomat Arun Singh, who served two postings in Moscow, spoke about the long arc of the relationship. He said India’s memory of Russian political backing still runs deep, especially the support shown at key moments on the world stage, including at the UN Security Council. Talking to ANI, he said that the sense of trust goes both ways. I could sense that there is a historical nature to the partnership," he said. "There is a confidence in the relationship on both sides. In India, there is a memory of Russia being an important partner which has provided political support that we've needed from time to time, including at the UN Security Council," he added.

Indian PM Narendra Modi gifts Russian President Vladimir Putin a Russian edition of the Bhagavad Gita as the Russian leader arrives in Delhi for a two-day visit.

Modi-Putin chemistry back on display as PM gifts the Russian leader a Gita in his own language

The Donald Trump administration on Thursday (Dec 4) sharply reduced the duration refugees, asylum seekers and other migrants can hold valid work permits in the US. The government has dramatically reduced the period from five years to 18 months. This change marks the latest step in the administration's sweeping immigration crackdown. The decision came just two days after the government halted immigration applications for citizens from 19 countries that are already under travel restrictions.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-president-benjamin-netanyahu-shrugs-off-zohran-mamdani-s-threat-to-enforce-icc-arrest-warrant-says-he-ll-visit-nyc-anyway-1764826042335">Netanyahu shrugs off Mamdani's threat to enforce ICC arrest warrant, says he'll visit NYC anyway</a><h2>Eliminating threat to 'public safety'</h2>Joseph Edlow, director of US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), said that the Washington shooting of two National Guard members was a key factor behind the shift. Two US National Guard soldiers were critically injured on Wednesday (Nov 26) in a targeted shooting just blocks from the White House. An Afghan man who arrived in the United States through a resettlement program after the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan was arrested over the shooting. One of the National Guard members succumbed to her injuries later.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>Edlow said that shorter work permit durations would allow more frequent security reviews and help ensure that people authorised to work in the country do not pose a threat. ""Reducing the maximum validity period for employment authorisation will&nbsp;ensure that those seeking to work in the United States do not threaten public safety or promote harmful anti-American ideologies."He added that the attack underscored the need for tighter and more regular vetting. "After the attack on National Guard service members in our nation's capital by an alien who was admitted into this country by the previous administration, it's even more clear that USCIS must conduct frequent vetting of aliens."<h2>Will you be affected by the US work permit reduction?</h2>The new limit will apply broadly to refugees, individuals who have been granted asylum and migrants whose deportations have been postponed by the government.

Trump cuts migrant work permits from five years to 18 months, tightening immigration rules days after freezing applications from 19 countries. 

The Donald Trump administration on Thursday (Dec 4) sharply reduced the duration refugees, asylum seekers and other migrants can hold valid work permits in the US. The government has dramatically reduced the period from five years to 18 months. This change marks the latest step in the administration's sweeping immigration crackdown. The decision came just two days after the government halted immigration applications for citizens from 19 countries that are already under travel restrictions. Also read | Netanyahu shrugs off Mamdani's threat to enforce ICC arrest warrant, says he'll visit NYC anyway Eliminating threat to 'public safety' Joseph Edlow, director of US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), said that the Washington shooting of two National Guard members was a key factor behind the shift. Two US National Guard soldiers were critically injured on Wednesday (Nov 26) in a targeted shooting just blocks from the White House. An Afghan man who arrived in the United States through a resettlement program after the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan was arrested over the shooting. One of the National Guard members succumbed to her injuries later. Also read | Sabrina Carpenter blasts White House after her song 'Juno' pops up in ICE's 'evil and disgusting' video Edlow said that shorter work permit durations would allow more frequent security reviews and help ensure that people authorised to work in the country do not pose a threat. ""Reducing the maximum validity period for employment authorisation will ensure that those seeking to work in the United States do not threaten public safety or promote harmful anti-American ideologies." He added that the attack underscored the need for tighter and more regular vetting. "After the attack on National Guard service members in our nation's capital by an alien who was admitted into this country by the previous administration, it's even more clear that USCIS must conduct frequent vetting of aliens." Will you be affected by the US work permit reduction? The new limit will apply broadly to refugees, individuals who have been granted asylum and migrants whose deportations have been postponed by the government.

Trump cuts migrant work permits from five years to 18 months, tightening immigration rules days after freezing applications from 19 countries.&nbsp;

Trump tightens immigration again, cuts refugee work permits to just 18 months

Britain's media watchdog on Thursday slapped a £1 million ($1.3 million) fine on a company for failing to ensure robust age checks on its 18 pornography websites.Ofcom confirmed that the fine against the AVS Group was the largest penalty yet under Britain's Online Safety Act, which came into effect in July to prevent children from accessing harmful online content.The new rules require porn sites to carry out strict age verification checks or face hefty fines.The measures also aim to protect youngsters from accessing content relating to suicide, self-harm and eating disorders."While AVS has implemented what it refers to as age verification, we do not consider it to be highly effective, and have fined the company £1,000,000," Ofcom said in a press release.The group must implement an appropriate age-check system within 72 hours, or face further daily fines, the watchdog warned.It was also slapped with an additional £50,000 fine for failing to respond to Ofcom's information request.Since July 25, websites, social media and video-sharing platforms hosting potentially harmful content have been required to implement strict age verification through tools such as facial imagery or credit card checks.Those found to be failing can face fines of up to £18 million or 10 per cent of qualifying worldwide revenue, whichever is greater.In the most serious cases, Ofcom can take legal action to block access to the site or platform concerned from the UK.The new regime has been hailed by campaigners as a milestone in their years-long battle for stronger regulations but criticised by some -- particularly those on the political right -- as an assault on free speech.Its rollout has reportedly prompted a huge spike in downloads of virtual private network (VPN) software, which allows browsers to appear as if they are in another country, potentially bypassing some website restrictions.Soon after the rules came into force, Ofcom launched investigations into 34 porn websites, including those run by AVS, over possible compliance failures.Those probes are ongoing, Ofcom confirmed Thursday.

The measures also aim to protect youngsters from accessing content relating to suicide, self-harm and eating disorders.

Britain's media watchdog on Thursday slapped a £1 million ($1.3 million) fine on a company for failing to ensure robust age checks on its 18 pornography websites. Ofcom confirmed that the fine against the AVS Group was the largest penalty yet under Britain's Online Safety Act, which came into effect in July to prevent children from accessing harmful online content. The new rules require porn sites to carry out strict age verification checks or face hefty fines. The measures also aim to protect youngsters from accessing content relating to suicide, self-harm and eating disorders. "While AVS has implemented what it refers to as age verification, we do not consider it to be highly effective, and have fined the company £1,000,000," Ofcom said in a press release. The group must implement an appropriate age-check system within 72 hours, or face further daily fines, the watchdog warned. It was also slapped with an additional £50,000 fine for failing to respond to Ofcom's information request. Since July 25, websites, social media and video-sharing platforms hosting potentially harmful content have been required to implement strict age verification through tools such as facial imagery or credit card checks. Those found to be failing can face fines of up to £18 million or 10 per cent of qualifying worldwide revenue, whichever is greater. In the most serious cases, Ofcom can take legal action to block access to the site or platform concerned from the UK. The new regime has been hailed by campaigners as a milestone in their years-long battle for stronger regulations but criticised by some -- particularly those on the political right -- as an assault on free speech. Its rollout has reportedly prompted a huge spike in downloads of virtual private network (VPN) software, which allows browsers to appear as if they are in another country, potentially bypassing some website restrictions. Soon after the rules came into force, Ofcom launched investigations into 34 porn websites, including those run by AVS, over possible compliance failures. Those probes are ongoing, Ofcom confirmed Thursday.

The measures also aim to protect youngsters from accessing content relating to suicide, self-harm and eating disorders.

Porn website fined £1 mn by UK watchdog for failing age checks

US President Donald Trump and the leaders of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo signed a peace deal in Washington on Thursday (Dec 4). This was even as fighting continued on the ground. "I think it's going to be a great miracle," Trump told reporters after the signing with Paul Kagame, the longtime president of Rwanda, and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-dubai-is-only-place-indians-respect-law-says-andrew-tate-internet-reminds-him-he-s-on-wanted-list-of-3-nations-1764688844758">'Dubai is only place Indians respect law', says Andrew Tate. Internet reminds him he’s on wanted list of 3 nations</a>&nbsp;Speaking of the two leaders, he added: "They spent a lot of time killing each other, and now they are going to spend a lot of time hugging, holding hands and taking advantage of the United States of America economically, like every other country does."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-first-congratulate-him-for-gaza-deal-say-russia-supported-it-then-in-leaked-call-transcript-witkoff-reveals-how-to-crack-a-deal-with-trump-1764239775071">'First congratulate him for Gaza deal, then...': In LEAKED call transcript, Witkoff reveals how to crack a deal with Trump</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, the African leaders took a more cautious tone, as fighting raged in eastern DRC, where the M23 armed group. "There will be ups and downs on the road ahead, there is no doubt about it," said Kagame, whose allies have taken a decisive edge on the ground against his country's turbulent neighbour.&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;The American president boasted that the eastern DRC conflict, where hundreds of thousands of people have died over several decades, is among the eight wars he has ended since he returned to the White House in January.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-1-200-to-each-affected-house-38-5-million-for-residents-aid-hong-kong-govt-after-building-fire-kills-55-leaves-hundreds-homeless-1764243371424">‘$1,200 to each affected house, $38.5 million for residents’ aid’: Hong Kong govt after building fire kills 55, leaves hundreds homeless</a>&nbsp;"We're going take out some of the rare earth," Trump said. “And everybody's going to make a lot of money.”&nbsp; &nbsp;

Trump, Rwanda and DR Congo leaders sign peace deal. All about it 

US President Donald Trump and the leaders of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo signed a peace deal in Washington on Thursday (Dec 4). This was even as fighting continued on the ground. "I think it's going to be a great miracle," Trump told reporters after the signing with Paul Kagame, the longtime president of Rwanda, and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi. Also read: 'Dubai is only place Indians respect law', says Andrew Tate. Internet reminds him he’s on wanted list of 3 nations Speaking of the two leaders, he added: "They spent a lot of time killing each other, and now they are going to spend a lot of time hugging, holding hands and taking advantage of the United States of America economically, like every other country does." Also read: 'First congratulate him for Gaza deal, then...': In LEAKED call transcript, Witkoff reveals how to crack a deal with Trump Meanwhile, the African leaders took a more cautious tone, as fighting raged in eastern DRC, where the M23 armed group. "There will be ups and downs on the road ahead, there is no doubt about it," said Kagame, whose allies have taken a decisive edge on the ground against his country's turbulent neighbour. Also read: ‘White House has received report on Macron’s plan to assassinate me’: Candace Owens’ ANOTHER BIG CLAIM as her show goes off air The American president boasted that the eastern DRC conflict, where hundreds of thousands of people have died over several decades, is among the eight wars he has ended since he returned to the White House in January. Also read: ‘$1,200 to each affected house, $38.5 million for residents’ aid’: Hong Kong govt after building fire kills 55, leaves hundreds homeless "We're going take out some of the rare earth," Trump said. “And everybody's going to make a lot of money.”

Trump, Rwanda and DR Congo leaders sign peace deal. All about it&nbsp;

Trump, Rwanda and DR Congo leaders sign peace deal. All about it

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed US criticism of India's oil purchases from Russia. Putin argued that if the United States is permitted to buy Russian nuclear fuel for its power plants, India should similarly have the right to purchase Russian energy resources. "As for India's purchase of energy resources from Russia, I would like to note and have already mentioned publicly this once, the United States itself still buys nuclear fuel from us for its own nuclear power plants," Putin was quoted as saying in an interview to India Today. "That is also fuel, Uranium for the reactors operating in the United States. If the US has the right to buy our fuel, why shouldn't India have the same privilege?" Putin added. &nbsp;Putin pointed out that the US imports uranium from Russia for its nuclear reactors, and questioned why India, which relies on energy imports, should be treated differently. &nbsp;This statement comes after US President Donald Trump imposed a 50% tariff on India's purchases of Russian oil, the highest tariff on any country, back in August. Putin, however, refrained from criticising Trump directly, acknowledging that his tariff decisions were made with the belief that they would benefit the US economy.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/putin-india-visit-delhi-traffic-police-issues-advisory-for-commuters-check-affected-routes-diversions-and-which-ones-to-avoid-1764866229068">Putin India visit: Delhi traffic police issues advisory for commuters. Check affected routes, diversions and which ones to avoid</a>&nbsp;He also noted that Russia does not impose such tariffs and emphasised that Russia’s economy remains open to trade. He assured that Russia does not engage in such practices and has no intention of doing so in the future. Speaking on Trump's tariffs, Putin said, “He (Trump) is acting in good faith, I presume.” “He pursues his own policy and he has advisors. His decisions aren't made out of thin air. He has advisors who believe in implementing such tariff policies involving the imposition of additional duties on trade partners ultimately benefits the US economy. He is acting in good faith, I presume,” Putin was quoted as saying.

'If the US has the right to buy our fuel, why shouldn't India': Vladimir Putin defends India's right to buy Russian oil amid US tariffs

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed US criticism of India's oil purchases from Russia. Putin argued that if the United States is permitted to buy Russian nuclear fuel for its power plants, India should similarly have the right to purchase Russian energy resources. "As for India's purchase of energy resources from Russia, I would like to note and have already mentioned publicly this once, the United States itself still buys nuclear fuel from us for its own nuclear power plants," Putin was quoted as saying in an interview to India Today. "That is also fuel, Uranium for the reactors operating in the United States. If the US has the right to buy our fuel, why shouldn't India have the same privilege?" Putin added. Putin pointed out that the US imports uranium from Russia for its nuclear reactors, and questioned why India, which relies on energy imports, should be treated differently. This statement comes after US President Donald Trump imposed a 50% tariff on India's purchases of Russian oil, the highest tariff on any country, back in August. Putin, however, refrained from criticising Trump directly, acknowledging that his tariff decisions were made with the belief that they would benefit the US economy. Also Read: Putin India visit: Delhi traffic police issues advisory for commuters. Check affected routes, diversions and which ones to avoid He also noted that Russia does not impose such tariffs and emphasised that Russia’s economy remains open to trade. He assured that Russia does not engage in such practices and has no intention of doing so in the future. Speaking on Trump's tariffs, Putin said, “He (Trump) is acting in good faith, I presume.” “He pursues his own policy and he has advisors. His decisions aren't made out of thin air. He has advisors who believe in implementing such tariff policies involving the imposition of additional duties on trade partners ultimately benefits the US economy. He is acting in good faith, I presume,” Putin was quoted as saying.

Russia president defends India's right to buy Russian oil, questioning US tariffs on such imports, and reaffirms Russia’s open trade policies without using tariffs

French President Emmanuel Macron appealed to Xi Jinping to help end the war in Ukraine and to tackle trade deficits as the two leaders met in Beijing on Thursday.For Macron, making his fourth visit to China while in office, the three-day trip is an opportunity to shore up support for a ceasefire in Europe's deadliest conflict since WWII, as well as to attract more Chinese investment in France.Speaking in the Great Hall of the People, where the meeting took place, Xi said he and Macron had agreed to push for more "balanced" economic ties, two-way investment and a "non-discriminatory" environment for businesses in both countries.Beijing has long sought to avoid EU tariffs on Chinese products, including steel and EVs that Brussels says are sold at unfair prices due to state subsidies.Xi also reiterated his support for an end to the hostilities in Ukraine, telling Macron that "China supports all efforts committed to peace and hopes that all parties will reach a fair, lasting and binding peace agreement that is acceptable to all parties".China -- a major Russian trading partner -- has said it takes a neutral stance on the war, refraining from condemning Moscow's invasion.All smiles as he entered the cavernous Great Hall of the People, Macron blew kisses to the crowd while a band played the national anthems of both countries.After the ceremony, Macron told Xi that France and China must overcome their "differences". The Chinese leader echoed Macron, calling for "more stable" ties.Their tete-a-tete comes amid fresh attempts to broker an end to the nearly four-year war in Ukraine, with Macron leading a push to counter a US-backed plan widely criticised for echoing Russia's demands."We must continue to work towards peace and stability in the world, and in Ukraine and other regions affected by war," Macron told Xi, adding: "Our capacity to work together is decisive."<h2>- Pressure on Ukraine -</h2>"I hope that China will join our call and our efforts to achieve, as soon as possible, at least a ceasefire in the form of a moratorium on strikes targeting critical infrastructure," he said.Macron, who will host the G7 summit next year, also urged Beijing to work with the grouping for "more balanced, fairer" rules-based economic governance.Macron's three-day visit to Beijing follows a trip to Paris by Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, who urged Europe to stand by Kyiv as Washington pushes a plan to end the war.China regularly calls for peace talks and respect for the territorial integrity of all countries, but has never condemned Russia for its 2022 invasion.Western governments accuse Beijing of providing Russia with crucial economic support for its war effort, notably by supplying it with military components for its defence industry.The French presidency said Macron would tell Xi that China must "refrain from providing any means, by any means, to Russia to continue the war".<h2>- The French 'love pandas' -</h2>Macron also discussed trade with his Chinese hosts, with the European Union facing a massive trade deficit of $357 billion with the Asian powerhouse."It is necessary for China to consume more and export less... and for Europeans to save less and produce more," an adviser to Macron said.Macron has previously called for the European Union to reduce its dependence on China and for a "European preference" in the tech sector, saying last month that the bloc should not be a "vassal" to US and Chinese companies.Macron also met with Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress, on Thursday afternoon before departing in the evening for Chengdu, where two giant pandas loaned to France were recently returned.The Chinese embassy promised new bears would soon be dispatched to make up for the popular pair leaving.Xi said on Thursday that China and France agreed to a new deal on panda protection."The French people love giant pandas," Xi said. "On the basis of the previous cooperation, both sides will carry out a new round of cooperation in giant panda protection."During his last trip to China, the French president was given a rock star welcome at a university in the southern city of Guangzhou, with students chanting his name and scrambling for selfies and high-fives.

Beijing has long sought to avoid EU tariffs on Chinese products, including steel and EVs that Brussels says are sold at unfair prices due to state subsidies.

French President Emmanuel Macron appealed to Xi Jinping to help end the war in Ukraine and to tackle trade deficits as the two leaders met in Beijing on Thursday. For Macron, making his fourth visit to China while in office, the three-day trip is an opportunity to shore up support for a ceasefire in Europe's deadliest conflict since WWII, as well as to attract more Chinese investment in France. Speaking in the Great Hall of the People, where the meeting took place, Xi said he and Macron had agreed to push for more "balanced" economic ties, two-way investment and a "non-discriminatory" environment for businesses in both countries. Beijing has long sought to avoid EU tariffs on Chinese products, including steel and EVs that Brussels says are sold at unfair prices due to state subsidies. Xi also reiterated his support for an end to the hostilities in Ukraine, telling Macron that "China supports all efforts committed to peace and hopes that all parties will reach a fair, lasting and binding peace agreement that is acceptable to all parties". China -- a major Russian trading partner -- has said it takes a neutral stance on the war, refraining from condemning Moscow's invasion. All smiles as he entered the cavernous Great Hall of the People, Macron blew kisses to the crowd while a band played the national anthems of both countries. After the ceremony, Macron told Xi that France and China must overcome their "differences". The Chinese leader echoed Macron, calling for "more stable" ties. Their tete-a-tete comes amid fresh attempts to broker an end to the nearly four-year war in Ukraine, with Macron leading a push to counter a US-backed plan widely criticised for echoing Russia's demands. "We must continue to work towards peace and stability in the world, and in Ukraine and other regions affected by war," Macron told Xi, adding: "Our capacity to work together is decisive." - Pressure on Ukraine - "I hope that China will join our call and our efforts to achieve, as soon as possible, at least a ceasefire in the form of a moratorium on strikes targeting critical infrastructure," he said. Macron, who will host the G7 summit next year, also urged Beijing to work with the grouping for "more balanced, fairer" rules-based economic governance. Macron's three-day visit to Beijing follows a trip to Paris by Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, who urged Europe to stand by Kyiv as Washington pushes a plan to end the war. China regularly calls for peace talks and respect for the territorial integrity of all countries, but has never condemned Russia for its 2022 invasion. Western governments accuse Beijing of providing Russia with crucial economic support for its war effort, notably by supplying it with military components for its defence industry. The French presidency said Macron would tell Xi that China must "refrain from providing any means, by any means, to Russia to continue the war". - The French 'love pandas' - Macron also discussed trade with his Chinese hosts, with the European Union facing a massive trade deficit of $357 billion with the Asian powerhouse. "It is necessary for China to consume more and export less... and for Europeans to save less and produce more," an adviser to Macron said. Macron has previously called for the European Union to reduce its dependence on China and for a "European preference" in the tech sector, saying last month that the bloc should not be a "vassal" to US and Chinese companies. Macron also met with Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress, on Thursday afternoon before departing in the evening for Chengdu, where two giant pandas loaned to France were recently returned. The Chinese embassy promised new bears would soon be dispatched to make up for the popular pair leaving. Xi said on Thursday that China and France agreed to a new deal on panda protection. "The French people love giant pandas," Xi said. "On the basis of the previous cooperation, both sides will carry out a new round of cooperation in giant panda protection." During his last trip to China, the French president was given a rock star welcome at a university in the southern city of Guangzhou, with students chanting his name and scrambling for selfies and high-fives.

Beijing has long sought to avoid EU tariffs on Chinese products, including steel and EVs that Brussels says are sold at unfair prices due to state subsidies.

Macron urges China to push for peace, ‘balanced’ economic ties

President Donald Trump hosted the leaders of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo on Thursday to sign a deal that the US leader has hailed as his latest peace triumph despite ongoing violence on the ground.Trump welcomed Paul Kagame, the longtime president of Rwanda, whose allies have taken a decisive edge on the ground against his country's turbulent neighbour, and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi at the White House.They will all then move to the newly renamed Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace in Washington to sign a peace accord, more than five months after the countries' foreign ministers also met Trump and announced another deal to end the conflict.Trump hopes the agreement will pave the way for the United States to gain access to critical minerals in eastern DRC, a violence-torn region that has reserves of many of the key ingredients in modern technologies such as electric cars.But even on the day of Trump's latest meeting, intense fighting raged in eastern DRC, where the M23 armed group -- which the UN says is backed by Rwanda -- has been gaining ground in recent weeks against Kinshasa's forces.<h2>- Violence shadows treaty -</h2>An AFP journalist at the scene heard weapon fire ring out Thursday on the outskirts of Kamanyola, an M23-controlled town in South Kivu province near the borders with Rwanda and Burundi."Many houses have been bombed, and there are many dead," said Rene Chubaka Kalembire, an administrative official in Kaziba, a town also under M23 control, on the eve of the signing.The long-simmering conflict exploded in late January as the M23 captured the major cities of Goma and Bukavu.After the June agreement, the M23 -- which denies links to Rwanda -- and the Kinshasa government pledged a ceasefire following mediation by US partner Qatar, but both sides have since accused the other of violations.Trump has boasted that the eastern DRC conflict, where hundreds of thousands of people have died over several decades, is among eight wars he has ended since he returned to office in January.The US president has made no secret of his desire to win the Nobel Peace Prize, underscored by the renaming of the peace institute where Thursday's deal will be signed.But as with many of the conflicts he claims to have solved, the reality on the ground in the DRC is at odds with what the White House this week called a "historic peace and economic agreement."After several days of clashes around Kaziba, fighter jets bombarded the town again on Thursday morning, a local civil society representative who requested anonymity told AFP.Explosions could also be heard coming from the Bugarama border post in Rwanda across the border in neighbouring Burundi, with Rwandan police temporarily shutting the frontier post on Thursday.AFP was unable to obtain a verifiable toll from the fighting from independent sources.Local sources reported a massive build-up of M23 reinforcements, accompanied by armored cars, in the high plateau of South Kivu.Passage through the mountainous region would allow its troops to encircle Uvira, the last major town in South Kivu to evade the M23's capture.<h2>- 'Defensive measures' -</h2>Trump has voiced hope that the United States can exploit minerals in the country that otherwise could head to China.The DRC is home to the majority of the world's cobalt, a critical mineral in batteries for electric vehicles, as well as other key minerals such as copper.The Congolese government said the agreement with Trump would include a peace deal, regional economic integration framework and a "strategic partnership" on natural resources.But Kinshasa insists peace must be achieved on the ground before proceeding to a second stage of economic development.Rwanda has made the end of its "defensive measures" contingent on Kinshasa neutralizing the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), an ethnic Hutu group with links to the 1994 genocide of the Tutsis in Rwanda.Kagame last week publicly accused the DRC of delaying the signing of an agreement.Both countries have been in talks with the US administration on its priority of taking in migrants as Trump carries out a sweeping deportation drive.

Trump hopes the agreement will pave the way for the United States to gain access to critical minerals in eastern DRC, a violence-torn region that has reserves of many of the key ingredients in modern technologies such as electric cars.

President Donald Trump hosted the leaders of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo on Thursday to sign a deal that the US leader has hailed as his latest peace triumph despite ongoing violence on the ground. Trump welcomed Paul Kagame, the longtime president of Rwanda, whose allies have taken a decisive edge on the ground against his country's turbulent neighbour, and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi at the White House. They will all then move to the newly renamed Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace in Washington to sign a peace accord, more than five months after the countries' foreign ministers also met Trump and announced another deal to end the conflict. Trump hopes the agreement will pave the way for the United States to gain access to critical minerals in eastern DRC, a violence-torn region that has reserves of many of the key ingredients in modern technologies such as electric cars. But even on the day of Trump's latest meeting, intense fighting raged in eastern DRC, where the M23 armed group -- which the UN says is backed by Rwanda -- has been gaining ground in recent weeks against Kinshasa's forces. - Violence shadows treaty - An AFP journalist at the scene heard weapon fire ring out Thursday on the outskirts of Kamanyola, an M23-controlled town in South Kivu province near the borders with Rwanda and Burundi. "Many houses have been bombed, and there are many dead," said Rene Chubaka Kalembire, an administrative official in Kaziba, a town also under M23 control, on the eve of the signing. The long-simmering conflict exploded in late January as the M23 captured the major cities of Goma and Bukavu. After the June agreement, the M23 -- which denies links to Rwanda -- and the Kinshasa government pledged a ceasefire following mediation by US partner Qatar, but both sides have since accused the other of violations. Trump has boasted that the eastern DRC conflict, where hundreds of thousands of people have died over several decades, is among eight wars he has ended since he returned to office in January. The US president has made no secret of his desire to win the Nobel Peace Prize, underscored by the renaming of the peace institute where Thursday's deal will be signed. But as with many of the conflicts he claims to have solved, the reality on the ground in the DRC is at odds with what the White House this week called a "historic peace and economic agreement." After several days of clashes around Kaziba, fighter jets bombarded the town again on Thursday morning, a local civil society representative who requested anonymity told AFP. Explosions could also be heard coming from the Bugarama border post in Rwanda across the border in neighbouring Burundi, with Rwandan police temporarily shutting the frontier post on Thursday. AFP was unable to obtain a verifiable toll from the fighting from independent sources. Local sources reported a massive build-up of M23 reinforcements, accompanied by armored cars, in the high plateau of South Kivu. Passage through the mountainous region would allow its troops to encircle Uvira, the last major town in South Kivu to evade the M23's capture. - 'Defensive measures' - Trump has voiced hope that the United States can exploit minerals in the country that otherwise could head to China. The DRC is home to the majority of the world's cobalt, a critical mineral in batteries for electric vehicles, as well as other key minerals such as copper. The Congolese government said the agreement with Trump would include a peace deal, regional economic integration framework and a "strategic partnership" on natural resources. But Kinshasa insists peace must be achieved on the ground before proceeding to a second stage of economic development. Rwanda has made the end of its "defensive measures" contingent on Kinshasa neutralizing the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), an ethnic Hutu group with links to the 1994 genocide of the Tutsis in Rwanda. Kagame last week publicly accused the DRC of delaying the signing of an agreement. Both countries have been in talks with the US administration on its priority of taking in migrants as Trump carries out a sweeping deportation drive.

Trump hopes the agreement will pave the way for the United States to gain access to critical minerals in eastern DRC, a violence-torn region that has reserves of many of the key ingredients in modern technologies such as electric cars.

Trump to sign Rwanda, DR Congo agreement. Details inside

Russia has sent some of the thousands of Ukrainian children it has abducted from occupied territory to North Korea for "re-education", Ukraine's human rights ombudsman said Thursday.The official, Dmytro Lubinets, did not say how many children Russia had taken to North Korea -- a highly repressive autocracy that has intensified cooperation with Moscow in recent years -- and Russia made no immediate public comment.Citing testimony published by a Kyiv-based human rights group, Lubinets said there was a network of 165 "camps" where Russia was attempting to re-educate the children -- in occupied Ukraine, Belarus and Russia, as well as in North Korea.A representative from the Regional Center for Human Rights (RCHR) -- who Lubinets was citing -- reported in testimony to the US Senate on Wednesday that at least some of the children were sent to the Songdowon summer camp on North Korea's eastern coast.There, they were taught to "destroy Japanese militarists" and met Korean veterans responsible for seizing a US spy ship in 1968.The Ukrainian government says Russia has abducted or forcibly displaced almost 20,000 children since launching its full-scale invasion in 2022.Russia has acknowledged moving some children since launching its offensive, but says it did so for their own safety and is trying to reunite them with their families -- an assertion Ukraine rejects.The International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin and his children's rights commissioner in 2023 over the alleged deportation and transfer of children to Russian-controlled territory.

The official, Dmytro Lubinets, did not say how many children Russia had taken to North Korea -- a highly repressive autocracy that has intensified cooperation with Moscow in recent years -- and Russia made no immediate public comment.

Russia has sent some of the thousands of Ukrainian children it has abducted from occupied territory to North Korea for "re-education", Ukraine's human rights ombudsman said Thursday. The official, Dmytro Lubinets, did not say how many children Russia had taken to North Korea -- a highly repressive autocracy that has intensified cooperation with Moscow in recent years -- and Russia made no immediate public comment. Citing testimony published by a Kyiv-based human rights group, Lubinets said there was a network of 165 "camps" where Russia was attempting to re-educate the children -- in occupied Ukraine, Belarus and Russia, as well as in North Korea. A representative from the Regional Center for Human Rights (RCHR) -- who Lubinets was citing -- reported in testimony to the US Senate on Wednesday that at least some of the children were sent to the Songdowon summer camp on North Korea's eastern coast. There, they were taught to "destroy Japanese militarists" and met Korean veterans responsible for seizing a US spy ship in 1968. The Ukrainian government says Russia has abducted or forcibly displaced almost 20,000 children since launching its full-scale invasion in 2022. Russia has acknowledged moving some children since launching its offensive, but says it did so for their own safety and is trying to reunite them with their families -- an assertion Ukraine rejects. The International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin and his children's rights commissioner in 2023 over the alleged deportation and transfer of children to Russian-controlled territory.

The official, Dmytro Lubinets, did not say how many children Russia had taken to North Korea -- a highly repressive autocracy that has intensified cooperation with Moscow in recent years -- and Russia made no immediate public comment.

Russia sent Ukrainian children to N Korea 're-education' camps: Kyiv

The Pakistani government on Thursday appointed Asim Munir as the country’s first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). President Asif Ali Zardari approved Munir’s appointment as the Chief of Defence Forces after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif sent him a summary earlier in the day recommending the appointment of Munir as CDF. Munir, who was elevated to the rank of field marshal, will concurrently serve as Chief of Army Staff for five years. The prime minister approved the summary for the appointment of Munir “as the chief of army staff and the chief of defence forces” and then referred it to the President House. Munir’s appointment for both roles is for a period of five years, the statement said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Asif Ali Zardari approved the appointment of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir as COAS concurrently as CDF for 5 years, and a 2-year extension for Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu from 19 March 2026. The President conveyed his best wishes to both. <a href="https://t.co/RrIJNCC7I5">pic.twitter.com/RrIJNCC7I5</a>&mdash; The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) <a href="https://twitter.com/PresOfPakistan/status/1996618775664402655?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 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/pakistan-to-hold-bidding-again-to-sell-loss-making-national-airline-pia-on-dec-23-asim-munir-s-foundation-among-bidders-1764845432571">Pakistan to hold bidding again to sell loss-making PIA on Dec 23; Asim Munir-controlled firm among bidders</a> Separately, President Zardari also approved a two-year extension in the tenure of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu. The extension will come into effect once his ongoing five-year term concludes in March 2026.President Zardari gave his assent to the Pakistan Army, Air Force, and Navy (Amendment) Bills 2025, on November 15 after their approval by parliament. The federal government will determine the specific duties and responsibilities of the CDF, which will include multi-domain integration and restructuring. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-s-aircraft-was-world-s-most-tracked-plane-en-route-india-1764861903043">Russian President Putin’s aircraft was world’s most-tracked plane en route India</a> A significant structural change is the abolition of the post of Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), which will now be replaced by the Commander of the National Strategic Command.The prime minister may appoint the Commander from among serving Pakistan Army generals for a three-year term, based on the recommendation of the COAS/CDF. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-times-sues-pentagon-over-new-restrictions-on-reporting-1764853723282">New York Times sues Pentagon over new restrictions on reporting</a> “Everything is fine; it’s all in front of you. Things are moving towards improvement, and Pakistan will now soar to greater heights from here,” Munir told journalists during an informal conversation in Islamabad. Munir was commissioned in the 23rd Frontier Force Regiment in 1986. He passed out with the 17th Officers Training Course at Mangla.He has held several key military positions, including directing staff at Command and Staff College, Quetta; brigade major of a deployed infantry brigade in Kel; general staff officer, grade-2 at the CGS secretariat; and chief of staff of Mangla Corps. He also served as Quartermaster General at the General Headquarters. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-radical-islam-poses-a-grave-threat-to-the-us-and-the-entire-world-marco-rubio-1764786437365">‘Radical Islam poses grave threat to the US and entire world’: Marco Rubio</a> Munir also held top intelligence positions, including Director General of Military Intelligence (MI) and head of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

The prime minister approved the summary for the appointment of Munir as the chief of army staff and the chief of defence forces and then referred it to the President House. Munir’s appointment for both roles is for a period of five years, the statement said.

The Pakistani government on Thursday appointed Asim Munir as the country’s first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). President Asif Ali Zardari approved Munir’s appointment as the Chief of Defence Forces after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif sent him a summary earlier in the day recommending the appointment of Munir as CDF. Munir, who was elevated to the rank of field marshal, will concurrently serve as Chief of Army Staff for five years. The prime minister approved the summary for the appointment of Munir “as the chief of army staff and the chief of defence forces” and then referred it to the President House. Munir’s appointment for both roles is for a period of five years, the statement said.

The prime minister approved the summary for the appointment of Munir as the chief of army staff and the chief of defence forces and then referred it to the President House. Munir’s appointment for both roles is for a period of five years, the statement said.

President Zardari appoints Asim Munir as country’s first chief of defence forces

On Friday (December 5), traffic movement will be restricted on key roads in New Delhi due to a special event, as announced by Delhi police. An official advisory highlights the areas where parking and stopping will be prohibited to ensure smooth traffic flow and reduce congestion. The restrictions will be enforced between 10:00am and 11:30am. During this period, vehicles will not be allowed to stop or park on Mother Teresa Crescent, Teen Murti Marg, Akbar Road, MLNP, and Janpath Road. These roads lie within a high-security and high-traffic zone, and authorities anticipate an increase in activity due to the event.&nbsp;Delhi police have warned that any vehicles found parked in these areas will be towed. Offenders who violate parking rules or ignore instructions from traffic officers will face penalties. Towed vehicles will be taken to two designated locations: one near Kali Bari Mandir Marg and the other in front of Bhairon Mandir, where owners can retrieve their vehicles after completing the necessary formalities.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-s-aircraft-was-world-s-most-tracked-plane-en-route-india-1764861903043">Russian President Putin’s aircraft was world’s most-tracked plane en route India</a>&nbsp;While these measures are temporary, police emphasize their importance in maintaining order. The arrangements have been made well in advance to prevent disruptions and to facilitate smooth movement around the event venue without impacting the rest of the district. Motorists are urged to avoid these routes during the restricted hours and to choose alternative roads to avoid delays. Commuters heading to central Delhi are advised to plan ahead and allow extra time for their travels.<h2>See the post from Delhi traffic police below</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">TRAFFIC ADVISORY Special traffic arrangements will be in place in New Delhi District on 05.12.2025 due to a special event. 📍RESTRICTIONS AND NO PARKING ZONES: Different stretches including Mother Teresa Crescent, Teen Murti Marg, Akbar Road, MLNP, Janpath Road, Firoz Shah… <a href="https://t.co/ugexGDdCSQ">pic.twitter.com/ugexGDdCSQ</a>&mdash; Delhi Traffic Police (@dtptraffic) <a href="https://twitter.com/dtptraffic/status/1996604296763478194?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Delhi Traffic Police posted on X. TRAFFIC ADVISORY. Special traffic arrangements will be in place in New Delhi District on 05.12.2025 due to a special event.📍RESTRICTIONS AND NO PARKING ZONES: Different stretches including Mother Teresa Crescent, Teen Murti Marg, Akbar Road, MLNP, Janpath Road, Firoz Shah Road, Sikandra Road, Windsor Place, Mandi House, Mathura Road &amp; Bhairon Marg will remain restricted during: •10:00–11:30 AM •11:00 AM–12:30 PM •03:00–05:00 PM •05:00–09:00 PM📍MAJOR DIVERSIONS: Vande Matram Marg → Simon Boliver Marg • R/A Kautilya Marg • Sunheri Masjid • R/A Rail Bhawan • Janpath Tolstoy Marg • Tolstoy KG Marg • Barakhamba Road, etc.📍ROUTES TO AVOID: Mother Teresa Crescent • Teen Murti Marg • Akbar Road • MLNP • Janpath Road • Firoz Shah Road • Sikandra Road • W-Point • Mathura Road • Bhairon Road📍SUGGESTED ALTERNATIVES: Vande Matram Marg • Yashwant Place • Maulana Azad Road • K. Kamraj Marg • Raisina Road • Rafi Marg • DDU Marg • Asaf Ali Road.📍PUBLIC ADVISORY: Use public transport, follow traffic police directions and plan travel to ISBT/Railway Stations/Airports in advance📍STAY UPDATED THROUGH DELHI TRAFFIC&nbsp;POLICE&nbsp;CHANNEL

Putin India visit: Delhi traffic police issues advisory for commuters. Check affected routes, diversions and which ones to avoid

On Friday (December 5), traffic movement will be restricted on key roads in New Delhi due to a special event, as announced by Delhi police. An official advisory highlights the areas where parking and stopping will be prohibited to ensure smooth traffic flow and reduce congestion. The restrictions will be enforced between 10:00am and 11:30am. During this period, vehicles will not be allowed to stop or park on Mother Teresa Crescent, Teen Murti Marg, Akbar Road, MLNP, and Janpath Road. These roads lie within a high-security and high-traffic zone, and authorities anticipate an increase in activity due to the event. Delhi police have warned that any vehicles found parked in these areas will be towed. Offenders who violate parking rules or ignore instructions from traffic officers will face penalties. Towed vehicles will be taken to two designated locations: one near Kali Bari Mandir Marg and the other in front of Bhairon Mandir, where owners can retrieve their vehicles after completing the necessary formalities. Also Read: Russian President Putin’s aircraft was world’s most-tracked plane en route India While these measures are temporary, police emphasize their importance in maintaining order. The arrangements have been made well in advance to prevent disruptions and to facilitate smooth movement around the event venue without impacting the rest of the district. Motorists are urged to avoid these routes during the restricted hours and to choose alternative roads to avoid delays. Commuters heading to central Delhi are advised to plan ahead and allow extra time for their travels. See the post from Delhi traffic police below

Delhi Traffic Police has issued an advisory for the commuters as Russia President Vladimir Putin landed in New Delhi on Thursday evening (December 4). PM Modi welcomed him as the red carpet was rolled out at Palam airport

Four military-grade drones breached a restricted airspace at Dublin Airport late on Monday (December 1) night, flying directly into the projected flight path of Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s aircraft, according to an article published in The Journal. Zelenskyy’s plane landed slightly ahead of schedule, touching down only minutes before the drones arrived at the point where the aircraft had originally been expected to pass around 11pm.&nbsp;After missing the approach, the drones moved to the Irish Sea, circling above an Irish Naval Service vessel that had been covertly positioned offshore as part of the security plan for the visit. According to sources, the drones appear to have been launched from Dublin’s northeast, possibly near Howth, and remained airborne for as long as two hours. Gardai are examining whether they were deployed from land or from an untracked vessel.&nbsp;The operators and current whereabouts of the drones remain unknown. While drones with military specifications can perform a wide range of tasks, investigators believe the illuminated lights on these devices suggest an attempt to interfere with or unsettle the aircraft’s arrival. Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly was briefed during the early hours of Tuesday (December 2), and senior government figures, including the Taoiseach and the Ministers for Justice and Defence, were informed shortly afterwards. It is unclear whether Ukrainian officials were notified.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-pleased-to-welcome-my-friend-pm-narendra-modi-tweets-in-russian-as-he-warmly-greets-russian-president-vladimir-putin-1764860483771">'Pleased to welcome my friend': PM Narendra Modi tweets in Russian as he warmly greets Russian president Vladimir Putin</a>&nbsp;This incident resembles recent drone-related disruptions in other parts of Europe, including airport shutdowns in Brussels and Denmark, which heightened regional security concerns. Irish security assessments indicate that the drones involved were large, costly, and built to military standards, raising the possibility that the event was a form of hybrid aggression. Hybrid tactics typically blend military tools with non-military pressure, such as cyberattacks, sabotage, or disinformation, often executed by state intelligence or defence agencies without open warfare.&nbsp;After failing to intersect with the presidential aircraft, the drones focused on the Le William Butler Yeats, operating within Ireland’s 12-nautical-mile maritime zone. Authorities opted not to engage the drones. The naval ship lacked any capability to disable them, and although an Air Corps aircraft was on patrol, it did not intervene.&nbsp;Crew members visually detected the drones, which were clearly visible due to their lights against the night sky. The Irish Aviation Authority had imposed a drone prohibition over Dublin and nearby areas for the duration of Zelenskyy’s visit

Four unidentified drones 'targeted' Zelenskyy’s arrival in Dublin by breaching tight security zone

Four military-grade drones breached a restricted airspace at Dublin Airport late on Monday (December 1) night, flying directly into the projected flight path of Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s aircraft, according to an article published in The Journal. Zelenskyy’s plane landed slightly ahead of schedule, touching down only minutes before the drones arrived at the point where the aircraft had originally been expected to pass around 11pm. After missing the approach, the drones moved to the Irish Sea, circling above an Irish Naval Service vessel that had been covertly positioned offshore as part of the security plan for the visit. According to sources, the drones appear to have been launched from Dublin’s northeast, possibly near Howth, and remained airborne for as long as two hours. Gardai are examining whether they were deployed from land or from an untracked vessel. The operators and current whereabouts of the drones remain unknown. While drones with military specifications can perform a wide range of tasks, investigators believe the illuminated lights on these devices suggest an attempt to interfere with or unsettle the aircraft’s arrival. Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly was briefed during the early hours of Tuesday (December 2), and senior government figures, including the Taoiseach and the Ministers for Justice and Defence, were informed shortly afterwards. It is unclear whether Ukrainian officials were notified. Also Read: 'Pleased to welcome my friend': PM Narendra Modi tweets in Russian as he warmly greets Russian president Vladimir Putin This incident resembles recent drone-related disruptions in other parts of Europe, including airport shutdowns in Brussels and Denmark, which heightened regional security concerns. Irish security assessments indicate that the drones involved were large, costly, and built to military standards, raising the possibility that the event was a form of hybrid aggression. Hybrid tactics typically blend military tools with non-military pressure, such as cyberattacks, sabotage, or disinformation, often executed by state intelligence or defence agencies without open warfare. After failing to intersect with the presidential aircraft, the drones focused on the Le William Butler Yeats, operating within Ireland’s 12-nautical-mile maritime zone. Authorities opted not to engage the drones. The naval ship lacked any capability to disable them, and although an Air Corps aircraft was on patrol, it did not intervene. Crew members visually detected the drones, which were clearly visible due to their lights against the night sky. The Irish Aviation Authority had imposed a drone prohibition over Dublin and nearby areas for the duration of Zelenskyy’s visit

According to reports, four military-grade drones entered restricted airspace near Dublin airport, disrupting Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's arrival

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Indian on Thursday (Dec 4) for a state visit. He will be staying in India for 30 hours, as per the official schedule. The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the Russian president at the Palam Airport, and the duo carpooled to reach the official residence of PM Modi.&nbsp;This was the second time the duo was seen sharing the same car. Last time, in September, Putin had offered a ride to PM Modi in his official car during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in China.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-dubai-is-only-place-indians-respect-law-says-andrew-tate-internet-reminds-him-he-s-on-wanted-list-of-3-nations-1764688844758">'Dubai is only place Indians respect law', says Andrew Tate. Internet reminds him he’s on wanted list of 3 nations</a>

<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> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin travel in the same car, as they depart from the Palam Technical Airport in Delhi President Putin is on a two-day State visit to India. He will hold the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit with PM Narendra… <a href="https://t.co/oVtsOL7SnM">pic.twitter.com/oVtsOL7SnM</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1996578653774451122?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Details of the car&nbsp;As per the clips shared online, PM Modi and Putin travelled in a Toyota Alphard, 4th generation. The car is often used as a VIP limo van and is preferred for government delegations and secure movement.&nbsp;During G20 (2023), India officially deployed over 100 Toyota Vellfires for delegates, reported widely by major outlets. This made it a default “VIP MPV” for protocol movements.&nbsp;Where will Modi-Putin meeting take place?&nbsp;Putin and PM Modi are scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting at the Hyderabad House, a 97-year-old architectural landmark whose role in the country’s statecraft has only grown with time.&nbsp;In a few hours after being landed, as per the official schedule, Putin will be hosted by PM Modi for a private dinner. On Friday morning, the two leaders will assemble at Hyderabad House for delegation-level talks before issuing press statements around 1:50 pm.&nbsp;Amid this, the Hyderabad House has become a centre of attraction. It is not just another government venue. The Hyderabad House has evolved into the country’s principal stage for high-level diplomacy.

This was the second time the duo was seen sharing the same car. Last time, in September, Putin had offered a ride to PM Modi in his official car during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in China.



Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Indian on Thursday (Dec 4) for a state visit. He will be staying in India for 30 hours, as per the official schedule. The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the Russian president at the Palam Airport, and the duo carpooled to reach the official residence of PM Modi. This was the second time the duo was seen sharing the same car. Last time, in September, Putin had offered a ride to PM Modi in his official car during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in China. Also read: 'Dubai is only place Indians respect law', says Andrew Tate. Internet reminds him he’s on wanted list of 3 nations

This was the second time the duo was seen sharing the same car. Last time, in September, Putin had offered a ride to PM Modi in his official car during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in China.&nbsp;

WATCH: PM Modi-Putin's bromance as they carpooled to Indian PM's residence

The aircraft carrying Russian President Vladimir Putin to New Delhi, India, was the most tracked flight in the world on Thursday, said global aircraft tracker Flight Radar 24. “Our most tracked flight now: one of the Russian government aircraft en route to India. Russian President Putin and Indian PM Modi are scheduled to meet over two days in Delhi,” the aircraft tracker said in a post on X and its website.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Our most tracked flight now: one of the Russian government aircraft en route to India. Russian President Putin and Indian PM Modi are scheduled to meet over two days in Delhi. <a href="https://t.co/Q5GikRN1Vd">https://t.co/Q5GikRN1Vd</a> <a href="https://t.co/DcbA9wFYrF">pic.twitter.com/DcbA9wFYrF</a>&mdash; Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) <a href="https://twitter.com/flightradar24/status/1996498859758145814?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;President Putin landed in New Delhi on Thursday evening and was personally received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the airport in a gesture of friendship and goodwill. The two leaders will discuss a range of matters, from defence to trade.Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Russian President Vladimir Putin with a smile, a handshake, and a warm hug. The two leaders then travelled in the same car as they headed to PM Modi’s official residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, for a private dinner.&nbsp;After the grand welcome, the Russian president's office said in a post on social media that PM Modi’s decision to greet Putin at the aircraft ramp was unexpected, and the Russian president was not informed in advance about it.&nbsp;The two leaders will hold delegation-level talks at Hyderabad House on Friday morning before issuing press statements around 1.50 pm.&nbsp;Flight Radar 24 said that two aircraft were spotted earlier. While one turned off its transponder, the other turned it on, and the cycle continued. A transponder sends aircraft coordinates and other key flight information to air traffic controllers.&nbsp;As one of the world’s most heavily protected leaders, Putin rarely travels without two symbols of Russian state power: his Aurus Senat armoured limousine and his highly customised presidential aircraft, the Ilyushin IL-96-300PU, widely known as the “Flying Kremlin”.&nbsp;The “Flying Kremlin” is a modified version of the IL-96-300, a long-range, four-engine Russian airliner developed in the 1980s by the Ilyushin Design Bureau. It first flew on September 28, 1988, and entered service in the early 1990s.

As one of the world’s most heavily protected leaders, Putin rarely travels without two symbols of Russian state power: his Aurus Senat armoured limousine and his highly customised presidential aircraft, the Ilyushin IL-96-300PU, widely known as the “Flying Kremlin”.

The aircraft carrying Russian President Vladimir Putin to New Delhi, India, was the most tracked flight in the world on Thursday, said global aircraft tracker Flight Radar 24. “Our most tracked flight now: one of the Russian government aircraft en route to India. Russian President Putin and Indian PM Modi are scheduled to meet over two days in Delhi,” the aircraft tracker said in a post on X and its website.

As one of the world’s most heavily protected leaders, Putin rarely travels without two symbols of Russian state power: his Aurus Senat armoured limousine and his highly customised presidential aircraft, the Ilyushin IL-96-300PU, widely known as the “Flying Kremlin”.

Russian President Putin’s aircraft was world’s most-tracked plane en route India

Russia President Vladimir Putin landed in New Delhi on Thursday (December 4) evening. India Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally welcomed him as the red carpet was rolled out for the Russian president. Both the leaders shook hands, exchanged warm hug and smiled. This is Putin's first visit in four years. Putin's two-day trip includes talks with PM Narendra Modi, a private dinner at the PM's residence, ceremonial welcome, Raj Ghat tribute, and agreements on trade, defence and mobility.&nbsp;Welcoming him, PM Modi tweeted in Russian to welcome Vladimir Putin. Taking it to his X account, Modi wrote, “Я рад приветствовать в Дели своего друга - Президента Путина. С нетерпением жду наших встреч сегодня вечером и завтра. Дружба между Индией и Россией проверена временем; она принесла огромную пользу нашим народам. @KremlinRussia_E.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-modi-putin-hug-as-indian-pm-receives-russian-president-with-a-red-carpet-1764855356119">WATCH | Modi, Putin hug as Indian PM receives Russian president with a red carpet</a><h2>See PM Narendra Modi's tweet in Russian</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Я рад приветствовать в Дели своего друга - Президента Путина. С нетерпением жду наших встреч сегодня вечером и завтра. Дружба между Индией и Россией проверена временем; она принесла огромную пользу нашим народам.<a href="https://twitter.com/KremlinRussia_E?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KremlinRussia_E</a> <a href="https://t.co/yqmhCbZBde">pic.twitter.com/yqmhCbZBde</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1996590132812460454?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

For nearly two years, Vladimir Putin avoided major global gatherings, not because of logistical constraints, but because of the political and legal storm surrounding him. He skipped the G20 Summit in New Delhi. He avoided BRICS and multiple multilateral events where his presence would have been overshadowed by the Ukraine war, sanctions, and the ICC arrest warrant. Against that backdrop, the decision to travel to India is not casual; it is deliberate.&nbsp;This visit is Putin’s biggest political bet after his trips to China and the US. Those two capitals symbolise the polar ends of global power. India represents something else entirely: the swing power in the middle, whose partnership Russia cannot afford to lose. And for India, hosting Putin at this juncture is equally meaningful. It is a quiet assertion of strategic autonomy, a reminder that New Delhi charts its own geopolitical course, and a signal to the world that India will not be pressured into taking sides in the new Cold War.<h2>See the full itinerary of Russia President Vladimir Putin here</h2>Friday: December 5, 2025 - 11:00 hoursCeremonial Reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan Photo Op: AV Media&nbsp;Friday: December 5, 2025 -11:30 hours Wreath Laying at Rajghat Photo Op: AV Media&nbsp;Friday: December 5, 2025 - 11:50 hours Meeting with the Prime Minister at Hyderabad House Photo Op: AV Media&nbsp;Friday: December 5, 2025 -13:50 hours Press Statements at Hyderabad House Photo Op: All Media&nbsp;Friday: December 5, 2025 -15:40 hours Business Event Venue: TBC&nbsp;Friday: December 5, 2025 -19:00 hours Meeting with the President at Rashtrapati Bhavan Photo Op: Official Only&nbsp;Friday: December 5, 2025 -21:00 hours Departure from Delhi

'Pleased to welcome my friend': PM Narendra Modi tweets in Russian as he warmly greets Russian president Vladimir Putin

Russia President Vladimir Putin landed in New Delhi on Thursday (December 4) evening. India Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally welcomed him as the red carpet was rolled out for the Russian president. Both the leaders shook hands, exchanged warm hug and smiled. This is Putin's first visit in four years. Putin's two-day trip includes talks with PM Narendra Modi, a private dinner at the PM's residence, ceremonial welcome, Raj Ghat tribute, and agreements on trade, defence and mobility. Welcoming him, PM Modi tweeted in Russian to welcome Vladimir Putin. Taking it to his X account, Modi wrote, “Я рад приветствовать в Дели своего друга - Президента Путина. С нетерпением жду наших встреч сегодня вечером и завтра. Дружба между Индией и Россией проверена временем; она принесла огромную пользу нашим народам. @KremlinRussia_E.” Also Read: WATCH | Modi, Putin hug as Indian PM receives Russian president with a red carpet See PM Narendra Modi's tweet in Russian

Russia President Vladimir Putin landed in New Delhi on Thursday evening (December 4). PM Modi welcomed him as the red carpet was rolled out at Palam airport

'Pleased to welcome my friend': PM Narendra Modi tweets in Russian as he warmly greets Russian President Vladimir Putin

Erika Kirk, widow of conservative figure Charlie Kirk and CEO of Turning Point USA, expressed her thoughts on the support Zohran Mamdani received from young women in the New York City mayoral election. Speaking at the 2025 DealBook Summit hosted by the New York Times, she found it "ironic" that many career-driven women backed Zohran Mamdani. Kirk explained that some of these women appear to view the government as a substitute for family structures, particularly when it comes to relationships. She cautioned against a mindset where government assistance could become a replacement for the traditional support system found within a marriage or family.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-s-ofcom-fines-porn-company-1-3-million-for-age-verification-lapses-1764851153366">UK's Ofcom fines porn company $1.3 million for age verification lapses</a>&nbsp;Kirk's concern is that women, especially in a city like New York, might delay family life or marriage in favor of relying on government programs. "What I don't want to see is young women thinking the government is a substitute for starting a family or having a marriage," she was quoted as saying at the event.<h2>Watch the video here</h2>

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She stressed on the importance of mutual support in relationships, with spouses relying on each other instead of depending on state aid. In this context, she found it especially striking that a significant portion of Zohran Mamdani’s supporters were women, given his platform and progressive policies.<h2>Zohran Mamdani elected as NYC mayor</h2>Zohran Mamdani, 34, made history as the first Muslim candidate to win a major New York City mayoral primary. The campaign, which saw him defeat former governor Andrew Cuomo, gained attention not only for Mamdani's policies but for his identity as a Muslim and the Islamophobia he claimed to have encountered during his candidacy. Mamdani presents himself as an activist and organiser who uses his diverse experiences in fields like film, rap, and writing to inspire social action.

'Ironic and so interesting': Erika Kirk questions women's support for Zohran Mamdani

Erika Kirk, widow of conservative figure Charlie Kirk and CEO of Turning Point USA, expressed her thoughts on the support Zohran Mamdani received from young women in the New York City mayoral election. Speaking at the 2025 DealBook Summit hosted by the New York Times, she found it "ironic" that many career-driven women backed Zohran Mamdani. Kirk explained that some of these women appear to view the government as a substitute for family structures, particularly when it comes to relationships. She cautioned against a mindset where government assistance could become a replacement for the traditional support system found within a marriage or family. Also Read: UK's Ofcom fines porn company $1.3 million for age verification lapses Kirk's concern is that women, especially in a city like New York, might delay family life or marriage in favor of relying on government programs. "What I don't want to see is young women thinking the government is a substitute for starting a family or having a marriage," she was quoted as saying at the event. Watch the video here

Erika Kirk reacts to young, career-driven women in New York, who support Zohran Mamdani, suggesting they risk replacing family bonds with dependence on government

South Africa said Thursday it was prepared to wait out next year's G20 after being barred by the United States and did not expect other countries to lobby for its inclusion. The United States this month took over the year-long presidency of the group of leading economies after largely boycotting South Africa's tenure, including the November summit, in an escalation of its attacks on Pretoria.&nbsp;President Donald Trump said on social media late November that South Africa would not be invited to the summit in Miami, which Secretary of State Marco Rubio repeated in comments on Wednesday. "We are yet to receive it in writing, and we will deal with that when it comes," President Cyril Ramaphosa told reporters on Thursday.&nbsp;South Africa was "a fully fledged member of the G20", and its presidency had been internationally described as successful, he said.&nbsp;Presidential spokesman Vincent Magwenya said earlier that South Africa was prepared to sit out the forum's 2026 series and resume participation when the G20 is handed to Britain in a year's time. "About this time next year, the UK will be taking over the G20 Presidency," Magwenya said on social media.&nbsp;"We will be able to engage meaningfully and substantively over what really matters to the rest of the world. For now, we will take a commercial break until we resume normal programming," he said.<h3>'Spirit of G20'</h3>The Johannesburg summit, the first in Africa, was attended by a host of world leaders, including those from countries not in the G20, but boycotted by Trump. Rubio said in a newsletter that South Africa's G20 was an exercise in "radical agendas" that ignored US objections.&nbsp;The "United States will not be extending an invitation to the South African government to participate in the G20 during our presidency," he said. Ramaphosa said South Africa would not attempt to mobilise a boycott of the US G20 to object to its exclusion. "Every country must take its own decisions," he said.&nbsp;South Africa would, however, want countries to "register their displeasure with the US in defence of multilateralism and the spirit and purpose of the G20," his spokesman said in an interview with the Sunday Times on Wednesday.&nbsp;The G20 group of nations includes the world's top economies as well as the European Union and the African Union regional blocs. It accounts for 85 per cent of the world's GDP and two-thirds of its population.&nbsp;The Trump administration has lashed out at South Africa over a range of policies, expelling its ambassador in March and imposing 30 per cent trade tariffs, which Pretoria is still seeking to overturn.&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 the WION audience.

The Johannesburg summit, the first in Africa, was attended by a host of world leaders, including those from countries not in the G20, but boycotted by Trump. Rubio said in a newsletter that South Africa's G20 was an exercise in "radical agendas" that ignored US objections.

South Africa said Thursday it was prepared to wait out next year's G20 after being barred by the United States and did not expect other countries to lobby for its inclusion. The United States this month took over the year-long presidency of the group of leading economies after largely boycotting South Africa's tenure, including the November summit, in an escalation of its attacks on Pretoria. President Donald Trump said on social media late November that South Africa would not be invited to the summit in Miami, which Secretary of State Marco Rubio repeated in comments on Wednesday. "We are yet to receive it in writing, and we will deal with that when it comes," President Cyril Ramaphosa told reporters on Thursday. South Africa was "a fully fledged member of the G20", and its presidency had been internationally described as successful, he said. Presidential spokesman Vincent Magwenya said earlier that South Africa was prepared to sit out the forum's 2026 series and resume participation when the G20 is handed to Britain in a year's time. "About this time next year, the UK will be taking over the G20 Presidency," Magwenya said on social media. "We will be able to engage meaningfully and substantively over what really matters to the rest of the world. For now, we will take a commercial break until we resume normal programming," he said. 'Spirit of G20' The Johannesburg summit, the first in Africa, was attended by a host of world leaders, including those from countries not in the G20, but boycotted by Trump. Rubio said in a newsletter that South Africa's G20 was an exercise in "radical agendas" that ignored US objections. The "United States will not be extending an invitation to the South African government to participate in the G20 during our presidency," he said. Ramaphosa said South Africa would not attempt to mobilise a boycott of the US G20 to object to its exclusion. "Every country must take its own decisions," he said. South Africa would, however, want countries to "register their displeasure with the US in defence of multilateralism and the spirit and purpose of the G20," his spokesman said in an interview with the Sunday Times on Wednesday. The G20 group of nations includes the world's top economies as well as the European Union and the African Union regional blocs. It accounts for 85 per cent of the world's GDP and two-thirds of its population. The Trump administration has lashed out at South Africa over a range of policies, expelling its ambassador in March and imposing 30 per cent trade tariffs, which Pretoria is still seeking to overturn. 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 the WION audience.

The Johannesburg summit, the first in Africa, was attended by a host of world leaders, including those from countries not in the G20, but boycotted by Trump. Rubio said in a newsletter that South Africa's G20 was an exercise in "radical agendas" that ignored US objections.

US barred South Africa from G20 Summit 2026, Pretoria says it’s ready to 'wait it out': Here's why

Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in India on Thursday (Dec 4). Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the Russian president, and the duo left the Palam airport in the same car. Putin and PM Modi are scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting at the Hyderabad House, a 97-year-old architectural landmark whose role in the country’s statecraft has only grown with time.&nbsp;In a few hours after being landed, as per the official schedule, Putin will be hosted by PM Modi for a private dinner. On Friday morning, the two leaders will assemble at Hyderabad House for delegation-level talks before issuing press statements around 1:50 pm.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-dubai-is-only-place-indians-respect-law-says-andrew-tate-internet-reminds-him-he-s-on-wanted-list-of-3-nations-1764688844758">'Dubai is only place Indians respect law', says Andrew Tate. Internet reminds him he’s on wanted list of 3 nations</a>&nbsp;Amid this, the Hyderabad House has become a centre of attraction. It is not just another government venue. The Hyderabad House has evolved into the country’s principal stage for high-level diplomacy.&nbsp;Completed in 1928, Hyderabad House is the legacy of Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan, then among the richest men in the world. Nizam wanted to build a permanent residence in Delhi, near the Viceroy's House (now Rashtrapati Bhawan). He purchased 8.2 acres, then added a neighbouring 3.73-acre plot. Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-first-congratulate-him-for-gaza-deal-say-russia-supported-it-then-in-leaked-call-transcript-witkoff-reveals-how-to-crack-a-deal-with-trump-1764239775071">'First congratulate him for Gaza deal, then...': In LEAKED call transcript, Witkoff reveals how to crack a deal with Trump</a>&nbsp;But, strangely, when he finally set foot inside the palatial residence nearly a decade after its completion, he reportedly sneered at it, dismissing it as nothing more than a “stable". He never stayed there, not even once. Nizam entrusted the design to Sir Edwin Lutyens, the architect tasked with shaping much of New Delhi’s imperial core. By 1954, the Ministry of External Affairs leased Hyderabad House from the Andhra Pradesh government. And since then, it became the venue for &nbsp;high-stakes diplomacy.

Putin and PM Modi are scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting at the Hyderabad House, a 97-year-old architectural landmark whose role in the country’s statecraft has only grown with time.

Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in India on Thursday (Dec 4). Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the Russian president, and the duo left the Palam airport in the same car. Putin and PM Modi are scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting at the Hyderabad House, a 97-year-old architectural landmark whose role in the country’s statecraft has only grown with time. In a few hours after being landed, as per the official schedule, Putin will be hosted by PM Modi for a private dinner. On Friday morning, the two leaders will assemble at Hyderabad House for delegation-level talks before issuing press statements around 1:50 pm. Also read: 'Dubai is only place Indians respect law', says Andrew Tate. Internet reminds him he’s on wanted list of 3 nations Amid this, the Hyderabad House has become a centre of attraction. It is not just another government venue. The Hyderabad House has evolved into the country’s principal stage for high-level diplomacy. Completed in 1928, Hyderabad House is the legacy of Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan, then among the richest men in the world. Nizam wanted to build a permanent residence in Delhi, near the Viceroy's House (now Rashtrapati Bhawan). He purchased 8.2 acres, then added a neighbouring 3.73-acre plot. Also read: 'First congratulate him for Gaza deal, then...': In LEAKED call transcript, Witkoff reveals how to crack a deal with Trump But, strangely, when he finally set foot inside the palatial residence nearly a decade after its completion, he reportedly sneered at it, dismissing it as nothing more than a “stable". He never stayed there, not even once. Nizam entrusted the design to Sir Edwin Lutyens, the architect tasked with shaping much of New Delhi’s imperial core. By 1954, the Ministry of External Affairs leased Hyderabad House from the Andhra Pradesh government. And since then, it became the venue for high-stakes diplomacy.

Putin and PM Modi are scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting at the Hyderabad House, a 97-year-old architectural landmark whose role in the country’s statecraft has only grown with time.

Why is PM Modi meeting Putin at Hyderabad House? Here’s story behind the venue

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi for the first time since 2021 on Thursday evening (Dec 4). He was grandly welcomed by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a warm hug, handshake and smile. Along with PM Modi, Putin was also welcomed by a troupe of women with an Indian classical dance, following which both leaders departed New Delhi’s Palam Air Base together in the same car.<h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<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> | Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hugs Vladimir Putin as the Russian president arrives in India on 2-day historic visit <a href="https://t.co/PIV9PRfN9C">pic.twitter.com/PIV9PRfN9C</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1996577152142282777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

After Putin's grand welcome, the Russian president's office said in a post on social media that PM Modi’s decision to meet him at the aircraft ramp was unexpected, and the Russian president was not informed in advance about it.&nbsp;His arrival in New Delhi, his first major visit after travelling to the US and China, and his first to India since the Ukraine war upended Russia’s global standing, carries far more weight than its ceremonial packaging.&nbsp;&nbsp;The 23rd India-Russia annual summit is not just a bilateral meeting but also a geopolitical signal, a strategic recalibration, and a diplomatic test for India in a world that has become increasingly bipolar.<h3>India releases FULL itinerary of Putin's visit:</h3>Friday - December 5, 2025 - 11:00 hoursCeremonial Reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan Photo Op: AV Media&nbsp;Friday - December 5, 2025 -11:30 hours Wreath Laying at Rajghat Photo Op: AV Media&nbsp;Friday - December 5, 2025 - 11:50 hours Meeting with the Prime Minister at Hyderabad House Photo Op: AV Media&nbsp;Friday - December 5, 2025 -13:50 hours Press Statements at Hyderabad House Photo Op: All Media&nbsp;Friday - December 5, 2025 -15:40 hours Business Event Venue: TBC&nbsp;Friday - December 5, 2025 -19:00 hours Meeting with the President at Rashtrapati Bhavan Photo Op: Official Only&nbsp;Friday - December 5, 2025 -21:00 hours Departure from Delhi

Russian President Vladimir Putin was also welcomed by a troupe of women with an Indian classical dance, following which both leaders departed New Delhi’s Palam Air Base together in the same car.

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi for the first time since 2021 on Thursday evening (Dec 4). He was grandly welcomed by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a warm hug, handshake and smile. Along with PM Modi, Putin was also welcomed by a troupe of women with an Indian classical dance, following which both leaders departed New Delhi’s Palam Air Base together in the same car. Watch the video here

Russian President Vladimir Putin was also welcomed by a troupe of women with an Indian classical dance, following which both leaders left New Delhi’s Palam Air Base together in the same car for a private dinner at the PM's residence

WATCH | Modi, Putin hug as Indian PM receives Russian president with a red carpet

Tel Aviv has urged New Delhi to designate Hamas as a terror group; the outfit is already listed as a terror group in countries like the US, UK, Canada and several other countries. Senior Israeli officials have said that New Delhi's recognition will have significant regional influence. Israel noted that it has already listed &nbsp;Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and wants New Delhi to "reciprocate"."Our request from India is to work hard to sanction and designate these organisations as terrorist groups. Israel designated Lashkar-e-Taiba a couple of years ago, and we would like to see this reciprocated," said a senior official at Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.The officials alleged that there is a significant network and linkages between Hamas and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), adding that Iran's IRGC, Hamas and Hezbollah increasingly rely on a transnational terror network. &nbsp;It also asserted that New Delhi is aware of such connections."You're not going to see an Iranian operative act directly in Europe. What you will see is a criminal group -- a drug lord, a human trafficker or another network -- connected to an Iranian handler who then carries out an attack, as we've seen in Scandinavia or in London," said the senior official at Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.&nbsp;"It will be a good thing if India did. India and Israel have a common enemy. It will be good to have a clear statement on who we face," said Lt Col Nadav Shoshani, International Spokesperson for the IDF.&nbsp;<h2>India's position in the Israel-Palestine conflict</h2>India has condemned the October 7 attack by Hamas, but has not officially termed it a terrorist front. Historically, India has always maintained a healthy relationship with the Palestinian cause of statehood, one that originated from its shared history of colonial subjugation. India was colonised by the British, and the British gave away the Palestinian land to Jews in the Balfour Declaration. However, the Modi Government, has found a common ground with the Israeli regime, due to its shared sense of islamophobia and xenophobia. Both see themselves a victims of Islamic terror, and both are vying for an ethno-national state.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Israel has urged India to designate Hamas as a terrorist group, calling for reciprocity after Israel listed Lashkar-e-Taiba. Israeli army says move would be “good.”

Tel Aviv has urged New Delhi to designate Hamas as a terror group; the outfit is already listed as a terror group in countries like the US, UK, Canada and several other countries. Senior Israeli officials have said that New Delhi's recognition will have significant regional influence. Israel noted that it has already listed Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and wants New Delhi to "reciprocate". "Our request from India is to work hard to sanction and designate these organisations as terrorist groups. Israel designated Lashkar-e-Taiba a couple of years ago, and we would like to see this reciprocated," said a senior official at Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The officials alleged that there is a significant network and linkages between Hamas and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), adding that Iran's IRGC, Hamas and Hezbollah increasingly rely on a transnational terror network. It also asserted that New Delhi is aware of such connections. "You're not going to see an Iranian operative act directly in Europe. What you will see is a criminal group -- a drug lord, a human trafficker or another network -- connected to an Iranian handler who then carries out an attack, as we've seen in Scandinavia or in London," said the senior official at Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. "It will be a good thing if India did. India and Israel have a common enemy. It will be good to have a clear statement on who we face," said Lt Col Nadav Shoshani, International Spokesperson for the IDF. India's position in the Israel-Palestine conflict India has condemned the October 7 attack by Hamas, but has not officially termed it a terrorist front. Historically, India has always maintained a healthy relationship with the Palestinian cause of statehood, one that originated from its shared history of colonial subjugation. India was colonised by the British, and the British gave away the Palestinian land to Jews in the Balfour Declaration. However, the Modi Government, has found a common ground with the Israeli regime, due to its shared sense of islamophobia and xenophobia. Both see themselves a victims of Islamic terror, and both are vying for an ethno-national state.

Israel has urged India to designate Hamas as a terrorist group, calling for reciprocity after Israel listed Lashkar-e-Taiba. Israeli army says move would be “good.”

Israel seeks 'reciprocity' from India, pushes India for terror tag of Hamas after LeT terror listing

The New York Times filed a lawsuit against the Pentagon on Thursday, accusing the US defense department of infringing on the constitutional rights of its journalists with its new reporting restrictions. The restrictions imposed in October require reporters to sign a pledge that they will not obtain unauthorised material, and restricts access to certain areas unless accompanied by an official. In a summary of the filing, the New York Times called it “exactly the type of speech- and press-restrictive scheme that the Supreme Court and D.C. Circuit have recognized violates the First Amendment.” The New York Times is asking the US district court in Washington to issue an order stopping the Pentagon from enforcing the press policy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-to-hold-bidding-again-to-sell-loss-making-national-airline-pia-on-dec-23-asim-munir-s-foundation-among-bidders-1764845432571">Pakistan to hold bidding again to sell loss-making PIA on Dec 23; Asim Munir-controlled firm among bidders</a>&nbsp;The New York Times “intends to vigorously defend against the violation of these rights, just as we have long done throughout administrations opposed to scrutiny and accountability,” the company said in a statement.&nbsp;The Pentagon rules require reporters to sign a 21-page form that sets limits on journalistic activities, including requests for story tips and inquiries to sources.&nbsp;Pentagon officials have said access to military facilities is a privilege subject to regulation. The policy “is about preventing leaks that damage operational security and national security,” a Pentagon statement said in October. “It’s common sense.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-radical-islam-poses-a-grave-threat-to-the-us-and-the-entire-world-marco-rubio-1764786437365">‘Radical Islam poses grave threat to the US and entire world’: Marco Rubio</a>&nbsp;The rules came into effect as defense secretary Pete Hegseth decided to curtail the access and privileges of the Pentagon press corps.&nbsp;Hegseth arrived at the Pentagon after a bruising confirmation process that surfaced allegations of excessive drinking and sexual assault, which he said were untrue. The department later stripped several national news outlets of their workspaces in the Pentagon, offering them mostly to conservative outlets.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-open-rafah-crossing-let-authorised-gazans-enter-egypt-1764775829988">Israel to open Rafah Crossing, let authorised Gazans enter Egypt</a>&nbsp;When the final rules were released on Oct. 6, dozens of credentialed journalists surrendered their badges instead of signing the document, but the outlets continued military reporting.&nbsp;Besides the New York Times, The Guardian, the Washington Post, the Atlantic, CNN, Reuters, the Associated Press, NPR, HuffPost, and the trade publication Breaking Defense also refused to sign the agreement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-expels-rape-accused-mla-rahul-mamkootathil-as-court-dismisses-bail-plea-1764850722020">Congress expels rape accused MLA Rahul Mamkootathil as court dismisses bail plea</a>&nbsp;In a press briefing on Wednesday, a senior Times lawyer said that there had been discussions with other news organizations about joining the suit but that the newspaper had decided to proceed alone.

The Pentagon rules require reporters to sign a 21-page form that sets limits on journalistic activities, including requests for story tips and inquiries to sources. Pentagon officials have said access to military facilities is a privilege subject to regulation.

The New York Times filed a lawsuit against the Pentagon on Thursday, accusing the US defense department of infringing on the constitutional rights of its journalists with its new reporting restrictions. The restrictions imposed in October require reporters to sign a pledge that they will not obtain unauthorised material, and restricts access to certain areas unless accompanied by an official. In a summary of the filing, the New York Times called it “exactly the type of speech- and press-restrictive scheme that the Supreme Court and D.C. Circuit have recognized violates the First Amendment.” The New York Times is asking the US district court in Washington to issue an order stopping the Pentagon from enforcing the press policy. Also Read: Pakistan to hold bidding again to sell loss-making PIA on Dec 23; Asim Munir-controlled firm among bidders The New York Times “intends to vigorously defend against the violation of these rights, just as we have long done throughout administrations opposed to scrutiny and accountability,” the company said in a statement. The Pentagon rules require reporters to sign a 21-page form that sets limits on journalistic activities, including requests for story tips and inquiries to sources. Pentagon officials have said access to military facilities is a privilege subject to regulation. The policy “is about preventing leaks that damage operational security and national security,” a Pentagon statement said in October. “It’s common sense.” Also Read: ‘Radical Islam poses grave threat to the US and entire world’: Marco Rubio The rules came into effect as defense secretary Pete Hegseth decided to curtail the access and privileges of the Pentagon press corps. Hegseth arrived at the Pentagon after a bruising confirmation process that surfaced allegations of excessive drinking and sexual assault, which he said were untrue. The department later stripped several national news outlets of their workspaces in the Pentagon, offering them mostly to conservative outlets. Also Read: Israel to open Rafah Crossing, let authorised Gazans enter Egypt When the final rules were released on Oct. 6, dozens of credentialed journalists surrendered their badges instead of signing the document, but the outlets continued military reporting. Besides the New York Times, The Guardian, the Washington Post, the Atlantic, CNN, Reuters, the Associated Press, NPR, HuffPost, and the trade publication Breaking Defense also refused to sign the agreement. Also Read: Congress expels rape accused MLA Rahul Mamkootathil as court dismisses bail plea In a press briefing on Wednesday, a senior Times lawyer said that there had been discussions with other news organizations about joining the suit but that the newspaper had decided to proceed alone.

The Pentagon rules require reporters to sign a 21-page form that sets limits on journalistic activities, including requests for story tips and inquiries to sources. Pentagon officials have said access to military facilities is a privilege subject to regulation.

New York Times sues Pentagon over new restrictions on reporting

Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is currently on India visit from Thursday (Dec 4), does not own a smartphone. The Russian president himself has admitted it multiple times. In a 2018 meeting with scientists and academics, replying to a comment that “everyone has a smartphone,” he said, “But I don't have a smartphone.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-first-congratulate-him-for-gaza-deal-say-russia-supported-it-then-in-leaked-call-transcript-witkoff-reveals-how-to-crack-a-deal-with-trump-1764239775071">'First congratulate him for Gaza deal, then...': In LEAKED call transcript, Witkoff reveals how to crack a deal with Trump</a>&nbsp;The Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has also confirmed it. He said that a smartphone “puts one’s privacy and security at risk,” and for a head of state, especially the leader of a major power, this kind of “total transparency” is unacceptable, as reported by TASS.&nbsp;Kremlin has confirmed officially that Putin relies on secure landlines, encrypted governmental communication channels, printouts, and official briefings - and not smartphones.&nbsp;In a 2018 interview with TASS, Putin reiterated that despite progress in science and technology, he personally prefers a “special hotline phone” rather than modern gadgets. He said that gadgets are not for him and that he uses other means of communication.&nbsp;Putin's India visit&nbsp;&nbsp;Putin landed in India on Thursday (Dec 4). Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the Russian president, and the duo left the Palam airport in the same car. Putin and PM Modi are scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting at the Hyderabad House, a 97-year-old architectural landmark whose role in the country’s statecraft has only grown with time.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-dubai-is-only-place-indians-respect-law-says-andrew-tate-internet-reminds-him-he-s-on-wanted-list-of-3-nations-1764688844758">'Dubai is only place Indians respect law', says Andrew Tate. Internet reminds him he’s on wanted list of 3 nations</a>&nbsp;In a few hours after being landed, as per the official schedule, Putin will be hosted by PM Modi for a private dinner. On Friday morning, the two leaders will assemble at Hyderabad House for delegation-level talks before issuing press statements around 1:50 pm.

Kremlin has confirmed officially that Putin relies on secure landlines, encrypted governmental communication channels, printouts, and official briefings - and not smartphones.



Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is currently on India visit from Thursday (Dec 4), does not own a smartphone. The Russian president himself has admitted it multiple times. In a 2018 meeting with scientists and academics, replying to a comment that “everyone has a smartphone,” he said, “But I don't have a smartphone.” Also read: 'First congratulate him for Gaza deal, then...': In LEAKED call transcript, Witkoff reveals how to crack a deal with Trump The Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has also confirmed it. He said that a smartphone “puts one’s privacy and security at risk,” and for a head of state, especially the leader of a major power, this kind of “total transparency” is unacceptable, as reported by TASS. Kremlin has confirmed officially that Putin relies on secure landlines, encrypted governmental communication channels, printouts, and official briefings - and not smartphones. In a 2018 interview with TASS, Putin reiterated that despite progress in science and technology, he personally prefers a “special hotline phone” rather than modern gadgets. He said that gadgets are not for him and that he uses other means of communication. Putin's India visit Putin landed in India on Thursday (Dec 4). Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the Russian president, and the duo left the Palam airport in the same car. Putin and PM Modi are scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting at the Hyderabad House, a 97-year-old architectural landmark whose role in the country’s statecraft has only grown with time. Also read: 'Dubai is only place Indians respect law', says Andrew Tate. Internet reminds him he’s on wanted list of 3 nations In a few hours after being landed, as per the official schedule, Putin will be hosted by PM Modi for a private dinner. On Friday morning, the two leaders will assemble at Hyderabad House for delegation-level talks before issuing press statements around 1:50 pm.

Kremlin has confirmed officially that Putin relies on secure landlines, encrypted governmental communication channels, printouts, and official briefings - and not smartphones.&nbsp;

Putin DOESN'T OWN a smartphone - here's why

The Tesla CEO, in a private event, expressed that the US is beginning a “great 12-year span.” According to a report by Politico, Musk predicted that Trump's Presidency would be followed by two consecutive presidencies by the current Vice President JD Vance. Vance is currently the frontrunner for the 2028 Presidential race. &nbsp;President Donald Trump, during a marathon Cabinet meeting, clearly addressed the idea of a 2028 rerun. "It’s not going to be me," Trump said. "It’s going to be somebody who’s probably sitting at this table. Trump had previously toyed with the idea of running for a third term.<h2>Elon Musk and Donald Trump's relationship&nbsp;</h2>Musk's support for the 12 years of MAGA comes at the end of a struggling year for his friendship in 2025. Notably, Musk was the single largest donor to Trump, 2024 election campaign. But later, Musk turned his back on Trump, as he departed from the White House in May. He pushed for the release of the Epstein file, adding fuel to the controversy.&nbsp;However, gradually Musk tried to get back in the good graces of Trump, even if he was condescending in nature. “You are so lucky I am with you, Elon. Has he ever thanked me properly?” Trump said during a Saudi investment forum hosted at the Kennedy Centre. Musk later shared his gratitude, “I would like to thank President Trump for all he has done for America and the world".&nbsp;Trump had been a climate change denier all throughout his political career. When they had fallen out, Trump openly mocked Tesla's electric cars. Trump recently seemed in a reconciliatory tone- “I like Elon a lot. He really helped a lot during the election with his endorsement…I didn’t want to have everybody have to have an electric car, and he makes electric cars. I think we get along well.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Elon Musk makes a chilling prediction about what happens after Donald Trump leaves office, warning that MAGA influence may extend far beyond a single presidency.

The Tesla CEO, in a private event, expressed that the US is beginning a “great 12-year span.” According to a report by Politico, Musk predicted that Trump's Presidency would be followed by two consecutive presidencies by the current Vice President JD Vance. Vance is currently the frontrunner for the 2028 Presidential race. President Donald Trump, during a marathon Cabinet meeting, clearly addressed the idea of a 2028 rerun. "It’s not going to be me," Trump said. "It’s going to be somebody who’s probably sitting at this table. Trump had previously toyed with the idea of running for a third term. Elon Musk and Donald Trump's relationship Musk's support for the 12 years of MAGA comes at the end of a struggling year for his friendship in 2025. Notably, Musk was the single largest donor to Trump, 2024 election campaign. But later, Musk turned his back on Trump, as he departed from the White House in May. He pushed for the release of the Epstein file, adding fuel to the controversy. However, gradually Musk tried to get back in the good graces of Trump, even if he was condescending in nature. “You are so lucky I am with you, Elon. Has he ever thanked me properly?” Trump said during a Saudi investment forum hosted at the Kennedy Centre. Musk later shared his gratitude, “I would like to thank President Trump for all he has done for America and the world". Trump had been a climate change denier all throughout his political career. When they had fallen out, Trump openly mocked Tesla's electric cars. Trump recently seemed in a reconciliatory tone- “I like Elon a lot. He really helped a lot during the election with his endorsement…I didn’t want to have everybody have to have an electric car, and he makes electric cars. I think we get along well.”

Elon Musk makes a chilling prediction about what happens after Donald Trump leaves office, warning that MAGA influence may extend far beyond a single presidency.

Elon Musk predicts 12 year 'MAGA' presidency even after Donald Trump leaves office

Britain's media regulator, Ofcom, has fined the AVS Group £1 million ($1.3 million) for failing to implement proper age verification on its 18 pornography websites. This is the largest penalty issued under the country’s Online Safety Act, which took effect in July with the goal of preventing children from accessing harmful online content.&nbsp;The Act mandates that adult websites must verify the age of their users using methods like facial recognition or credit card checks. If these sites fail to comply, they face huge fines. In AVS’s case, Ofcom noted that while the company had put some age verification measures in place, they were deemed insufficient and ineffective. As a result, the £1 million fine was imposed. Additionally, AVS Group was fined £50,000 for failing to respond to an information request from Ofcom. The company must now install a more reliable age-check system within 72 hours or face ongoing daily fines.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-cyberscam-crackdown-300m-in-assets-seized-42-arrest-warrants-issued-1764847100296">Thailand cyberscam crackdown: $300M in assets seized, 42 arrest warrants issued</a>&nbsp;Since the enforcement of the Online Safety Act, which also includes protections against harmful content like self-harm or eating disorder materials, social media platforms and websites must conduct robust age verification to prevent minors from accessing damaging material. Those found in breach of these rules face fines as high as £18 million or 10% of their global revenue, whichever is greater.&nbsp;Ofcom’s investigation into AVS and other adult websites is part of a larger crackdown to ensure compliance. While many have praised the initiative as a victory in the fight for safer online spaces, some critics argue that the new rules threaten free speech. Following the introduction of the new regulations, there has been a surge in VPN (Virtual Private Network) downloads, as users look for ways to bypass the age verification measures.

UK's Ofcom fines porn company $1.3 million for age verification lapses

Britain's media regulator, Ofcom, has fined the AVS Group £1 million ($1.3 million) for failing to implement proper age verification on its 18 pornography websites. This is the largest penalty issued under the country’s Online Safety Act, which took effect in July with the goal of preventing children from accessing harmful online content. The Act mandates that adult websites must verify the age of their users using methods like facial recognition or credit card checks. If these sites fail to comply, they face huge fines. In AVS’s case, Ofcom noted that while the company had put some age verification measures in place, they were deemed insufficient and ineffective. As a result, the £1 million fine was imposed. Additionally, AVS Group was fined £50,000 for failing to respond to an information request from Ofcom. The company must now install a more reliable age-check system within 72 hours or face ongoing daily fines. Also Read: Thailand cyberscam crackdown: $300M in assets seized, 42 arrest warrants issued Since the enforcement of the Online Safety Act, which also includes protections against harmful content like self-harm or eating disorder materials, social media platforms and websites must conduct robust age verification to prevent minors from accessing damaging material. Those found in breach of these rules face fines as high as £18 million or 10% of their global revenue, whichever is greater. Ofcom’s investigation into AVS and other adult websites is part of a larger crackdown to ensure compliance. While many have praised the initiative as a victory in the fight for safer online spaces, some critics argue that the new rules threaten free speech. Following the introduction of the new regulations, there has been a surge in VPN (Virtual Private Network) downloads, as users look for ways to bypass the age verification measures.

The UK’s media regulator, Ofcom, has fined AVS Group £1 million for failing to do age checks on its adult content websites, making it the largest penalty under the new Britain Online Safety Act

When was the last time you saw the Russian President Vladimir Putin having alcohol, especially when he was at state banquets? Never. Multiple well-cited reports confirmed that the Russian president rarely drinks and avoids doing so in public, especially during official engagements. On multiple diplomatic accounts, Putin was seen raising the glass but not drinking from it. And there's a reason for it. Actually, there are multiple reasons for it.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-first-congratulate-him-for-gaza-deal-say-russia-supported-it-then-in-leaked-call-transcript-witkoff-reveals-how-to-crack-a-deal-with-trump-1764239775071">'First congratulate him for Gaza deal, then...': In LEAKED call transcript, Witkoff reveals how to crack a deal with Trump</a>&nbsp;Putin's choice of not consuming alcohol publicly might have been influenced by the former president Boris Yeltsin, whose public drinking became an international embarrassment for Russia. A report by Reuters has said that Putin ’s sobriety in public settings helped ensure he “never repeated his predecessor Yeltsin's mistakes.”&nbsp;It is well-publicised that the Russian president is a fitness freak. He is very particular about his diet and exercise. He often engages himself in judo, swimming, and outdoor activities.&nbsp;In a 2025 speech, Putin told a group of Russian female military-aviation graduates that he keeps fit by “regular exercise, cold exposure training … and tries not to drink any alcohol.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-1-200-to-each-affected-house-38-5-million-for-residents-aid-hong-kong-govt-after-building-fire-kills-55-leaves-hundreds-homeless-1764243371424">‘$1,200 to each affected house, $38.5 million for residents’ aid’: Hong Kong govt after building fire kills 55, leaves hundreds homeless</a>&nbsp;Another aspect could be national interest. Under Putin, Russia has implemented stricter alcohol policies: curbs on late-night sales, price minimums, and bans on alcohol advertising. Moreover, between 2003 and 2016, alcohol consumption per capita in Russia dropped by about 43 per cent, as per a Guardian report. Hence, avoiding alcohol at public events might be Putin's way of showing that he follows what he preaches. But, Putin is not a teetotaler. At least it’s not officially confirmed. He was seen, rarely, consuming or sharing a glass of champagne here and there. &nbsp;

It is well-publicised that the Russian president is a fitness freak. He is very particular about his diet and exercise. He often engages himself in judo, swimming, and outdoor activities.



When was the last time you saw the Russian President Vladimir Putin having alcohol, especially when he was at state banquets? Never. Multiple well-cited reports confirmed that the Russian president rarely drinks and avoids doing so in public, especially during official engagements. On multiple diplomatic accounts, Putin was seen raising the glass but not drinking from it. And there's a reason for it. Actually, there are multiple reasons for it. Also read: 'First congratulate him for Gaza deal, then...': In LEAKED call transcript, Witkoff reveals how to crack a deal with Trump Putin's choice of not consuming alcohol publicly might have been influenced by the former president Boris Yeltsin, whose public drinking became an international embarrassment for Russia. A report by Reuters has said that Putin ’s sobriety in public settings helped ensure he “never repeated his predecessor Yeltsin's mistakes.” It is well-publicised that the Russian president is a fitness freak. He is very particular about his diet and exercise. He often engages himself in judo, swimming, and outdoor activities. In a 2025 speech, Putin told a group of Russian female military-aviation graduates that he keeps fit by “regular exercise, cold exposure training … and tries not to drink any alcohol.” Also read: ‘$1,200 to each affected house, $38.5 million for residents’ aid’: Hong Kong govt after building fire kills 55, leaves hundreds homeless Another aspect could be national interest. Under Putin, Russia has implemented stricter alcohol policies: curbs on late-night sales, price minimums, and bans on alcohol advertising. Moreover, between 2003 and 2016, alcohol consumption per capita in Russia dropped by about 43 per cent, as per a Guardian report. Hence, avoiding alcohol at public events might be Putin's way of showing that he follows what he preaches. But, Putin is not a teetotaler. At least it’s not officially confirmed. He was seen, rarely, consuming or sharing a glass of champagne here and there.

It is well-publicised that the Russian president is a fitness freak. He is very particular about his diet and exercise. He often engages himself in judo, swimming, and outdoor activities.&nbsp;

Why does Putin refuse alcohol at state banquets? Is he a teetotaler?

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Why does Putin refuse alcohol at state banquets? Is he a teetotaler?