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Japan has just taken the idea of convenience to a new level with a machine that feels almost out of sci-fi movies and cartoons we all loved as kids. Japanese company Science Inc. has begun selling what it calls the Mirai Human Washing Machine, a full-body automatic bath pod that washes, rinses and dries a person without needing to lift even one finger. The design made a splash at the Osaka World Expo earlier this year. Now with its formal launch, it entered the market as a real product you can actually use, provided you have access to one — and a very deep wallet.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fake-news-alert-pakistani-propoganda-accounts-try-to-use-ai-to-smear-army-chief-and-drag-wion-into-it-1764316925034">Fake news alert: Pakistani propaganda accounts try to use AI to smear Indian Army Chief and drag WION into it</a><h2>Lazy shower: How it works</h2>The pod looks a bit like a cross between a tanning capsule and a capsule hotel bed. You step inside, settle into a reclined seat, and the door seals behind you. Then the machine gets to work, using streams of microscopic bubbles to clean the body down to the pores. Dirt, oil and dead skin lift away while the user lies back listening to soft music. The system even dries you before you step out, so the whole routine takes around fifteen minutes from start to finish.<h2>Wash your mind and body</h2>Science Inc. isn't pitching this machine as just a high-tech shower. Company spokeswoman Sachiko Maekura says the Mirai is meant to wash the body and that it "washes the soul". To back that claim, the pod is packed with sensors that track heart rate and other vitals, stepping in to slow or stop the process if it detects stress, panic or anything that looks medically risky.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/when-will-i-get-my-tax-refund-will-it-be-delayed-cbdt-says-it-will-be-given-on-1764144921904">When will I get my tax refund? Will it be delayed? CBDT says it will&nbsp;be&nbsp;given on...</a>It’s not an entirely new idea. A prototype "human washing machine" drew crowds at the 1970 Osaka Expo, and Science chairman Yasuaki Aoyama remembers seeing it as a child. Half a century later, he revived the concept with modern hardware, and the updated version was one of the most talked-about attractions of Expo 2025. That enthusiasm convinced the company to build it for real.<h2>How much is it? Where can I buy the automatic shower pod?</h2>The first-generation Mirai isn't meant for homes. At roughly 60 million yen — about 385,000 dollars — it's aimed squarely at luxury hotels, spas, resorts and theme parks. Science Inc. says it will only produce 40 to 50 units to start, each hand-built. One hotel has already placed the first order, and several more buyers are lined up."As the technology advances and mass production becomes more feasible, a more affordable home model may be released," said the company.

Japan’s Science Inc. has launched the Mirai Human Washing Machine, a full-body bath pod that washes, rinses and dries you automatically in 15 minutes. Here's all you need to know about this machine that's straight out of sci-fi.

Japan has just taken the idea of convenience to a new level with a machine that feels almost out of sci-fi movies and cartoons we all loved as kids. Japanese company Science Inc. has begun selling what it calls the Mirai Human Washing Machine, a full-body automatic bath pod that washes, rinses and dries a person without needing to lift even one finger. The design made a splash at the Osaka World Expo earlier this year. Now with its formal launch, it entered the market as a real product you can actually use, provided you have access to one — and a very deep wallet. Also read | Fake news alert: Pakistani propaganda accounts try to use AI to smear Indian Army Chief and drag WION into it Lazy shower: How it works The pod looks a bit like a cross between a tanning capsule and a capsule hotel bed. You step inside, settle into a reclined seat, and the door seals behind you. Then the machine gets to work, using streams of microscopic bubbles to clean the body down to the pores. Dirt, oil and dead skin lift away while the user lies back listening to soft music. The system even dries you before you step out, so the whole routine takes around fifteen minutes from start to finish. Wash your mind and body Science Inc. isn't pitching this machine as just a high-tech shower. Company spokeswoman Sachiko Maekura says the Mirai is meant to wash the body and that it "washes the soul". To back that claim, the pod is packed with sensors that track heart rate and other vitals, stepping in to slow or stop the process if it detects stress, panic or anything that looks medically risky. Also read | When will I get my tax refund? Will it be delayed? CBDT says it will be given on... It’s not an entirely new idea. A prototype "human washing machine" drew crowds at the 1970 Osaka Expo, and Science chairman Yasuaki Aoyama remembers seeing it as a child. Half a century later, he revived the concept with modern hardware, and the updated version was one of the most talked-about attractions of Expo 2025. That enthusiasm convinced the company to build it for real. How much is it? Where can I buy the automatic shower pod? The first-generation Mirai isn't meant for homes. At roughly 60 million yen — about 385,000 dollars — it's aimed squarely at luxury hotels, spas, resorts and theme parks. Science Inc. says it will only produce 40 to 50 units to start, each hand-built. One hotel has already placed the first order, and several more buyers are lined up. "As the technology advances and mass production becomes more feasible, a more affordable home model may be released," said the company.

Japan’s Science Inc. has launched the Mirai Human Washing Machine, a full-body bath pod that washes, rinses and dries you automatically in 15 minutes. Here's all you need to know about this machine that's straight out of sci-fi.

Japan's new human washing machine is here, but the price will hurt your soul more than it cleans your skin

US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said on Sunday (Nov 30) that the suspect in the National Guard shooting in Washington was not “radicalised” until after he came to the US. She further blamed the former president Biden administration, despite the Afghan national’s asylum was approved under US President Donald Trump. Earlier this week, two National Guard officers were shot by an Afghan suspect. One of the officers lost her life, while the other is in critical condition, Trump said on his Truth Social platform.Noem said that the authorities believe that the alleged shooter, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, had already been living in Washington when he became radicalised. She added that the investigators are enquiring more information from the suspect’s family members and other people. Her remarks suggest that Lakanwal may have embraced extremism after arriving in the US.“We believe he was radicalised since he’s been here in this country,” Noem told NBC News. “We do believe it was through connections in his home community and state, and we’re going to continue to talk to those who interacted with him, who were his family members.”The 29-year-old suspect, who was part of a CIA-backed unit in Afghanistan, came to the US in 2021 as part of the mass evacuations under the Biden administration during the two-decade war in Afghanistan, when the Taliban came into power. While the Trump administration has accused the Biden administration of poor vetting of Afghans and foreign nationals. However, Lakanwal was granted asylum in April under Trump, as per government documents reviewed by Reuters.Warning that the US authorities will pursue anyone who has information about him, she added, “Anyone who has the information on this needs to know that we will be coming after you, and we will bring you to justice,” she said.“We are going to go through every single person that has a pending asylum claim,” Noem said, adding that the immigration officials would consider deporting individuals with active asylum cases if needed.Following the shooting, the US State Department on Friday (Nov 28) announced an immediate pause on visa issuance for Afghan passport holders. On Sunday (Nov 30), Trump told reporters that he can pause asylum admissions in the US for an extended period.“No time limit, but it could be a long time,” Trump told reporters on Air Force One. “We have enough problems. We don't want those people.”

While the Trump administration has accused the Biden administration of poor vetting of Afghans and foreign nationals. However, Lakanwal was granted asylum in April under Trump, as per government documents.

US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said on Sunday (Nov 30) that the suspect in the National Guard shooting in Washington was not “radicalised” until after he came to the US. She further blamed the former president Biden administration, despite the Afghan national’s asylum was approved under US President Donald Trump. Earlier this week, two National Guard officers were shot by an Afghan suspect. One of the officers lost her life, while the other is in critical condition, Trump said on his Truth Social platform. Noem said that the authorities believe that the alleged shooter, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, had already been living in Washington when he became radicalised. She added that the investigators are enquiring more information from the suspect’s family members and other people. Her remarks suggest that Lakanwal may have embraced extremism after arriving in the US. “We believe he was radicalised since he’s been here in this country,” Noem told NBC News. “We do believe it was through connections in his home community and state, and we’re going to continue to talk to those who interacted with him, who were his family members.” The 29-year-old suspect, who was part of a CIA-backed unit in Afghanistan, came to the US in 2021 as part of the mass evacuations under the Biden administration during the two-decade war in Afghanistan, when the Taliban came into power. While the Trump administration has accused the Biden administration of poor vetting of Afghans and foreign nationals. However, Lakanwal was granted asylum in April under Trump, as per government documents reviewed by Reuters. Warning that the US authorities will pursue anyone who has information about him, she added, “Anyone who has the information on this needs to know that we will be coming after you, and we will bring you to justice,” she said. “We are going to go through every single person that has a pending asylum claim,” Noem said, adding that the immigration officials would consider deporting individuals with active asylum cases if needed. Following the shooting, the US State Department on Friday (Nov 28) announced an immediate pause on visa issuance for Afghan passport holders. On Sunday (Nov 30), Trump told reporters that he can pause asylum admissions in the US for an extended period. “No time limit, but it could be a long time,” Trump told reporters on Air Force One. “We have enough problems. We don't want those people.”

While the Trump administration has accused the Biden administration of poor vetting of Afghans and foreign nationals. However, Lakanwal was granted asylum in April under Trump, as per government documents.

Rahmanullah Lakanwal ‘radicalised’ in US? What Kristi Noem said about National Guard shooting suspect

In 2024, global arms manufacturers recorded their highest earnings on record last year, with the world’s top 100 defence companies bringing in an estimated $679 billion in sales, according to a new report. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) says the surge was driven largely by the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, as governments raced to secure weapons and replenish shrinking stockpiles.<h2>Highest ever revenues for weapon makers</h2>According to the report, revenues were up nearly six per cent compared with the previous year, and almost 26 per cent higher than in 2015. "Last year global arms revenues reached the highest level ever recorded by SIPRI as producers capitalised on high demand," said Lorenzo Scarazzato, researcher with the SIPRI Military Expenditure and Arms Production Programme.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-confirms-secret-call-with-maduro-what-was-really-said-1764550000178">Trump confirms secret call with Maduro. What was really said?</a><h2>Which regions did the demand come from?</h2>Researchers say that the demand was "mostly driven by Europe," although "all areas have increased except for Asia and Oceania". Jade Guiberteau Ricard, another researcher with the programme, said that Europe's increased demand can be traced to the war in Ukraine and "the threat perception of Russia by European states". He said that the demand was driven by Ukraine and countries supporting it militarily. Ricard added that even countries not directly supplying Kyiv have been expanding and modernising their own militaries, this he predicts "will present a new source of demand".<h2>Arm makers that got richer</h2>The United States remained the centre of global weapons manufacturing, home to 39 of the top 100 companies, including industry heavyweights Lockheed Martin, RTX and Northrop Grumman. Combined, American manufacturers generated $334 billion in sales, close to half the world's total.Europe posted the fastest regional growth, with revenues up 13 per cent to $151 billion. One of the biggest jumps came from the Czech-based Czechoslovak Group, which saw sales soar nearly 200 per cent due to its role in supplying artillery ammunition to Ukraine.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-hong-kong-fire-toll-soars-to-146-beijing-warns-against-anti-china-protests-1764565145201">As Hong Kong fire toll soars to 146, Beijing warns against 'anti-China' protests</a>Russia’s own defence industry, represented by Rostec and United Shipbuilding Corporation, posted a 23 per cent revenue increase despite sanctions and shortages of high-tech components.Asia-Pacific was the only region to dip, with sales down slightly due to contracting demand in China following corruption allegations in procurement. Japanese and South Korean companies, however, saw strong growth, helped in part by European buyers.In the Middle East, revenues reached $31 billion, led by Israeli manufacturers whose exports remain in high demand. The "growing backlash over Israel’s actions in Gaza seems to have had little impact on interest in Israeli weapons," said SIPRI researcher Zubaida Karim. &nbsp;

Global arms sales hit a record $679 bn in 2024, driven by the Ukraine and Gaza wars. Revenue up 6 per cent from last year, and 26 per cent since 2015. All you need to know.

In 2024, global arms manufacturers recorded their highest earnings on record last year, with the world’s top 100 defence companies bringing in an estimated $679 billion in sales, according to a new report. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) says the surge was driven largely by the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, as governments raced to secure weapons and replenish shrinking stockpiles. Highest ever revenues for weapon makers According to the report, revenues were up nearly six per cent compared with the previous year, and almost 26 per cent higher than in 2015. "Last year global arms revenues reached the highest level ever recorded by SIPRI as producers capitalised on high demand," said Lorenzo Scarazzato, researcher with the SIPRI Military Expenditure and Arms Production Programme. Also read | Trump confirms secret call with Maduro. What was really said? Which regions did the demand come from? Researchers say that the demand was "mostly driven by Europe," although "all areas have increased except for Asia and Oceania". Jade Guiberteau Ricard, another researcher with the programme, said that Europe's increased demand can be traced to the war in Ukraine and "the threat perception of Russia by European states". He said that the demand was driven by Ukraine and countries supporting it militarily. Ricard added that even countries not directly supplying Kyiv have been expanding and modernising their own militaries, this he predicts "will present a new source of demand". Arm makers that got richer The United States remained the centre of global weapons manufacturing, home to 39 of the top 100 companies, including industry heavyweights Lockheed Martin, RTX and Northrop Grumman. Combined, American manufacturers generated $334 billion in sales, close to half the world's total. Europe posted the fastest regional growth, with revenues up 13 per cent to $151 billion. One of the biggest jumps came from the Czech-based Czechoslovak Group, which saw sales soar nearly 200 per cent due to its role in supplying artillery ammunition to Ukraine. Also read | As Hong Kong fire toll soars to 146, Beijing warns against 'anti-China' protests Russia’s own defence industry, represented by Rostec and United Shipbuilding Corporation, posted a 23 per cent revenue increase despite sanctions and shortages of high-tech components. Asia-Pacific was the only region to dip, with sales down slightly due to contracting demand in China following corruption allegations in procurement. Japanese and South Korean companies, however, saw strong growth, helped in part by European buyers. In the Middle East, revenues reached $31 billion, led by Israeli manufacturers whose exports remain in high demand. The "growing backlash over Israel’s actions in Gaza seems to have had little impact on interest in Israeli weapons," said SIPRI researcher Zubaida Karim.

Global arms sales hit a record $679 bn in 2024, driven by the Ukraine and Gaza wars. Revenue up 6 per cent from last year, and 26 per cent since 2015. All you need to know.

War is good business? Global arms sales hit record $679bn in 2024; US and Russia among the biggest gainers

Amid deepening mystery on the whereabouts of former Pakistani PM Imran Khan, Pakistani Junior Law and Justice Minister Barrister Aqeel Malik hinted that the Pakistani government may impose Governor's Rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). This comes after Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi staged an overnight sit-in outside Central Jail Rawalpindi (Adiala jail). Malik cited "security and governance issues" in KP province to justify the imposition of Governor's Rule. Afridi is a leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Party and has been vocal in his demands to meet Imran Khan, standing alongside Khan's sisters. Malik claimed that it was “absolute necessity” to impose Governor's rule in KP.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/where-is-imran-khan-sisters-dragged-by-hair-for-demanding-to-meet-former-pakistan-pm-fake-death-rumours-float-what-s-happening-1764141799691">Where is Imran Khan? Sisters 'dragged by hair' for demanding to meet ex-Pakistan PM, fake death rumours float - What's happening</a>&nbsp;Speaking at a Geo News programme, Malik said that Afridi and his team had "badly failed in having any sort of a workable situation". "Neither do they want to have any kind of coordination or cohesion with the Centre, nor do they take any action in areas where it was needed. The situation in KP itself calls for a step to be taken in this regard so that the presence of an administrative structure is ensured there," Dawn reported him as saying. "The president can take this step on his own as well, the approval for which will later have to be taken by a joint sitting of [Parliament]," he added clarifying on media concerns that only the president has the authority to take the decision of Governor's Rule. He also accused the KP government of "planning to block routes and cut off the province" from the rest of the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/fact-check-ex-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-sexually-assaulted-in-jail-9028350">Fact check: Ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan sexually assaulted in jail?</a><h2>Where is Imran Khan?</h2>The whereabouts of the former Pakistani PM Imran Khan is not known with her sisters now having filed a contempt of court petition against the Adiala jail superintendent and other officials. While his sons have demanded proof of his life from the authorities, his last social media post was on November 5. Reportedly delivered after meeting his sister, the post accused Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Asim Munir, of exerting total control over the state. In what now seems to be a hint that Khan might be aware of the dangers to his life, he wrote on X, “The military establishment has done all they could against me. All that is left for them is to now murder me. I have stated publicly that if anything happens to me or my wife, General Asim Munir will be responsible. But I am not afraid because my faith is strong. I would prefer death over slavery."&nbsp;He also described Munir as the “most oppressive dictator” in the country’s history and a “mentally unstable” man. “Asim Munir is the most oppressive dictator in Pakistan’s history and a mentally unstable man. The extent of tyranny under his rule is unprecedented…. Munir, in his lust for power, is capable of doing anything."&nbsp;Imran Khan also claimed, “Pakistan is governed not by constitutional law, but by “Asim Law,” criticising army chief Asim Munir for using the law for vendetta. He said that he and his wife Bushra Bibi are facing “extreme cruelty.” He also accused Asim Munir and the Pakistani government of targeting PTI members without regard for women, children or elderly. He called the government under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif a "puppet government" and ruled out any negotiation with them. He also said that legal hearings are being obstructed to keep him imprisoned.&nbsp;

Pakistan’s junior law minister said Governor’s Rule is being considered in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa after CM Sohail Afridi’s protest outside Adiala jail, citing governance and security failures. Uncertainty deepens over former PM Imran Khan’s whereabouts, with his family seeking proof he is alive.

Amid deepening mystery on the whereabouts of former Pakistani PM Imran Khan, Pakistani Junior Law and Justice Minister Barrister Aqeel Malik hinted that the Pakistani government may impose Governor's Rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). This comes after Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi staged an overnight sit-in outside Central Jail Rawalpindi (Adiala jail). Malik cited "security and governance issues" in KP province to justify the imposition of Governor's Rule. Afridi is a leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Party and has been vocal in his demands to meet Imran Khan, standing alongside Khan's sisters. Malik claimed that it was “absolute necessity” to impose Governor's rule in KP. Also read: Where is Imran Khan? Sisters 'dragged by hair' for demanding to meet ex-Pakistan PM, fake death rumours float - What's happening Speaking at a Geo News programme, Malik said that Afridi and his team had "badly failed in having any sort of a workable situation". "Neither do they want to have any kind of coordination or cohesion with the Centre, nor do they take any action in areas where it was needed. The situation in KP itself calls for a step to be taken in this regard so that the presence of an administrative structure is ensured there," Dawn reported him as saying. "The president can take this step on his own as well, the approval for which will later have to be taken by a joint sitting of [Parliament]," he added clarifying on media concerns that only the president has the authority to take the decision of Governor's Rule. He also accused the KP government of "planning to block routes and cut off the province" from the rest of the country. Also read: Fact check: Ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan sexually assaulted in jail? Where is Imran Khan? The whereabouts of the former Pakistani PM Imran Khan is not known with her sisters now having filed a contempt of court petition against the Adiala jail superintendent and other officials. While his sons have demanded proof of his life from the authorities, his last social media post was on November 5. Reportedly delivered after meeting his sister, the post accused Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Asim Munir, of exerting total control over the state. In what now seems to be a hint that Khan might be aware of the dangers to his life, he wrote on X, “The military establishment has done all they could against me. All that is left for them is to now murder me. I have stated publicly that if anything happens to me or my wife, General Asim Munir will be responsible. But I am not afraid because my faith is strong. I would prefer death over slavery." He also described Munir as the “most oppressive dictator” in the country’s history and a “mentally unstable” man. “Asim Munir is the most oppressive dictator in Pakistan’s history and a mentally unstable man. The extent of tyranny under his rule is unprecedented…. Munir, in his lust for power, is capable of doing anything." Imran Khan also claimed, “Pakistan is governed not by constitutional law, but by “Asim Law,” criticising army chief Asim Munir for using the law for vendetta. He said that he and his wife Bushra Bibi are facing “extreme cruelty.” He also accused Asim Munir and the Pakistani government of targeting PTI members without regard for women, children or elderly. He called the government under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif a "puppet government" and ruled out any negotiation with them. He also said that legal hearings are being obstructed to keep him imprisoned.

Pakistan’s junior law minister said Governor’s Rule is being considered in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa after CM Sohail Afridi’s protest outside Adiala jail, citing governance and security failures. Uncertainty deepens over former PM Imran Khan’s whereabouts, with his family seeking proof he is alive.

Pakistan may impose Governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa after CM protested for Imran Khan - What's happening

The San Joaquin County sheriff on Sunday (Nov 30) shared more details regarding the brutal mass shooting in California’s Stockton during a press conference. The authorities confirmed that four people, including three minors, and 15 others were injured in the shooting, which happened at a banquet hall near the 1900 block of Lucile Avenue. The police have described the shooting as a “targeted incident” at a child’s birthday party.&nbsp;The sheriff’s office said that the deceased were aged 8, 9, 14, and 21 years. &nbsp;It added that detectives remained on the scene for processing evidence with the assistance of the California Department of Justice. The probe is ongoing, and the investigators are exploring all possibilities that led to the incident.&nbsp;<h2>What we know about the suspect and shooting</h2>&nbsp;Sheriff Patrick Withrow said that the authorities believe that multiple shooters were responsible for the incident. He added that the shooting started indoors but went on outdoors. Authorities have not detained anyone in connection with the shooting yet.&nbsp;The sheriff added that the details about the guns used in the incident will be clear after ballistics tests. Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi called the shooting an incident of “gang violence” and a “terrorist act”.&nbsp;“Gang violence exists in cities across the country, but this act was a pure act of terrorism. A complete, cowardly Terrorist Act!” she said. “The person or people responsible will lose their freedom for life. But they also handed out a life sentence to their own families and to the people who may have loved them. Because once they are arrested, they will NEVER see the light of day again!”&nbsp;She further warned, “And let me be very clear to anyone who hides, shields, or harbors these terrorists. You are putting yourself at risk of having your door kicked in, your home raided, and being arrested for aiding and abetting. If you protect them, you become part of this. And you will face the consequences.”&nbsp;The mayor also announced that the total bounty has been increased to $25,000 for information on the shooter.

The sheriff’s office said that the deceased were aged 8, 9, 14, and 21 years. Withrow said that the shooting, which happened near the 1900 block of Lucile Avenue, started indoors but went on outdoors.

The San Joaquin County sheriff on Sunday (Nov 30) shared more details regarding the brutal mass shooting in California’s Stockton during a press conference. The authorities confirmed that four people, including three minors, and 15 others were injured in the shooting, which happened at a banquet hall near the 1900 block of Lucile Avenue. The police have described the shooting as a “targeted incident” at a child’s birthday party. The sheriff’s office said that the deceased were aged 8, 9, 14, and 21 years. It added that detectives remained on the scene for processing evidence with the assistance of the California Department of Justice. The probe is ongoing, and the investigators are exploring all possibilities that led to the incident. What we know about the suspect and shooting Sheriff Patrick Withrow said that the authorities believe that multiple shooters were responsible for the incident. He added that the shooting started indoors but went on outdoors. Authorities have not detained anyone in connection with the shooting yet. The sheriff added that the details about the guns used in the incident will be clear after ballistics tests. Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi called the shooting an incident of “gang violence” and a “terrorist act”. “Gang violence exists in cities across the country, but this act was a pure act of terrorism. A complete, cowardly Terrorist Act!” she said. “The person or people responsible will lose their freedom for life. But they also handed out a life sentence to their own families and to the people who may have loved them. Because once they are arrested, they will NEVER see the light of day again!” She further warned, “And let me be very clear to anyone who hides, shields, or harbors these terrorists. You are putting yourself at risk of having your door kicked in, your home raided, and being arrested for aiding and abetting. If you protect them, you become part of this. And you will face the consequences.” The mayor also announced that the total bounty has been increased to $25,000 for information on the shooter.

The sheriff’s office said that the deceased were aged 8, 9, 14, and 21 years. Withrow said that the shooting, which happened near the 1900 block of Lucile Avenue, started indoors but went on outdoors.

California shooting: $25,000 bounty on attacker who killed 4, including minors – What we know

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Nov 30), broke his silence on media reports claiming that his Secretary of War Pete Hegseth ordered the killing of survivors on the alleged drug boat in the Caribbean Sea in September. Trump insisted that Hegseth has denied the claims and so that is the truth. The Post had reported that the US forces were ordered by Hegseth to kill the two survivors on the boat. Trump opined that he would have not wanted that, adding that he believes in what Hegseth said. In an attempt to build pressure on Venezeulan leader Nicolas Maduro, the Trump administration has targeted a number of alleged drug-boats in the Caribbean Sea, killing several of those on-board.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Trump tosses Hegseth under bus to avoid being charged with a war crime. How could POTUS be clueless as to what is defense secretary is up to????<a href="https://t.co/C9p2Gc1jeL">pic.twitter.com/C9p2Gc1jeL</a>&mdash; Morgan J. Freeman (@mjfree) <a href="https://twitter.com/mjfree/status/1995314597772083450?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Did Hegseth order US forces to kill survivors?</h2>The Washington Post and CNN reported that the US troops were given a directive from Hegseth to kill everyone on-board the alleged drug vessels. The Post reported that on September 2, the US military conducted a follow-up strike after seeing two survivors of an initial attack. The report added that following the operation, protocols were changed to rescue any survivors. CNN claimed that it was not clear whether Hegseth was aware of the survivors before the second strike was carried out. Hegseth called the reports “fake news”. He added that the intent of the strikes was to stop lethal drugs, destroy narco boats, and kill the narco terrorists “who are poisoning the American people.” He added that the US operations in the Caribbean are lawful as per both US and international laws.<h2>What Trump said?</h2>Trump expressed his “great confidence” that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth did not give a spoken order to kill all crew members. &nbsp;Trump said that Hegseth told him “he did not say that, and I believe him, 100 percent.” He also added that he would look into the issue. “I wouldn’t have wanted that. Not a second strike. The first strike was very lethal. It was fine,” the president told reporters. &nbsp;

US President Donald Trump defended Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth after reports accused him of ordering US forces to kill survivors on a suspected drug boat in the Caribbean. Trump said Hegseth denied the allegations and he believes him, though media reports suggest a second strike

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Nov 30), broke his silence on media reports claiming that his Secretary of War Pete Hegseth ordered the killing of survivors on the alleged drug boat in the Caribbean Sea in September. Trump insisted that Hegseth has denied the claims and so that is the truth. The Post had reported that the US forces were ordered by Hegseth to kill the two survivors on the boat. Trump opined that he would have not wanted that, adding that he believes in what Hegseth said. In an attempt to build pressure on Venezeulan leader Nicolas Maduro, the Trump administration has targeted a number of alleged drug-boats in the Caribbean Sea, killing several of those on-board.

US President Donald Trump defended Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth after reports accused him of ordering US forces to kill survivors on a suspected drug boat in the Caribbean. Trump said Hegseth denied the allegations and he believes him, though media reports suggest a second strike

Did Hegseth order killing of drug-boat survivors amid Venezuela conflict? Trump breaks silence

Nepal’s political landscape is shifting rapidly ahead of the March elections, with indications that Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, popularly known as Balen and Minister of Energy Kulman Ghising may align with the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) in what could become a major challenge to Nepal’s traditional political forces.&nbsp;&nbsp;RSP is moving to build a formidable political bloc by bringing prominent national figures into its fold, aiming to challenge Nepal’s traditional parties.&nbsp;Despite being in custody, RSP chair Rabi Lamichhane has been negotiating with Shah and his team from behind bars. Shah, a figure many in Nepal’s Gen Z see as a potential national leader. According to leaders familiar with the talks, RSP Vice President Swarnim Wagle and Shishir Khanal are leading the discussions from the party’s side. Kumar Ben, a close aide of Shah, has been representing him in these discussions.&nbsp;Parallel negotiations are also underway with Kulman Ghising, the widely popular figure credited with ending Nepal’s load-shedding crisis. Ghising, who recently launched the Ujyalo Nepal Party, is in talks for a potential senior leadership role within RSP. Sources say he is likely to join the emerging RSP-Balen bloc.&nbsp;Shah is expected to contest either from a constituency in Kathmandu or Jhapa-5, potentially setting up a direct contest against former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on his home turf. Oli has won from Jhapa six times in the past across multiple constituencies, making the showdown one of the most closely watched potential races of 2026.&nbsp;Shah’s potential role within the RSP-led coalition has reportedly already been outlined. According to negotiators, he has made it clear he is not seeking the prime ministership but is willing to support the party’s organisational expansion and serve as a key figure in the alliance.&nbsp;Sources involved in the negotiations confirmed to WION that both sides have reached an understanding to unite for the March elections with an ambitious goal: securing a two-thirds majority in parliament. Their shared goal is to form a stable government and break the decade-long cycle of hung parliaments that has defined Nepal’s political landscape.&nbsp;The youth wave extends beyond Shah. Gen Z leaders Sudan Gurung and Purushottam Yadav are also likely to join the bloc. Many emerging leaders believe that forming multiple small parties will dilute their impact, and consolidation under one platform offers a more powerful alternative to challenge Nepal’s traditional parties. Talks are now expanding to provincial-level alliances as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;A formal announcement is expected after Rabi Lamichhane is released from detention.&nbsp;Formed in 2022, the Rastriya Swatantra Party has quickly capitalised on voter frustration with Nepal’s old political guard. This is viewed as a coalition built on two of Nepal’s most influential new-age leaders. Rabi Lamichhane and Balen Shah are among the most followed and closely watched public figures in Nepal today.&nbsp;RSP’s rapid rise in the 2022 general elections, becoming the fourth-largest party within months of its creation, reflected Lamichhane’s widespread appeal among urban and young voters frustrated with corruption and status quo politics.&nbsp;&nbsp;Shah, who won the Kathmandu mayoral race with a record-breaking independent vote margin, has maintained exceptional public support through his assertive governance style, large digital following and ability to mobilise youth sentiment on civic issues. Shah had expressed his support for Gen-Z-led protests against corruption.&nbsp;Their combined appeal, youth culture and anti-establishment sentiment are seen by observers as a potentially disruptive force capable of reshaping Nepal’s electoral landscape.&nbsp;The September Gen Z uprising, fueled by frustration over corruption, censorship and unaccountable governance, has shaken Nepal’s traditional parties. It has triggered internal conversations about leadership changes in major parties, including CPN-UML, Nepali Congress and Maoist Centre, with lawmakers challenging long-standing party presidents.&nbsp;Nepal’s politics have often resembled a game of musical chairs, three former prime ministers - KP Sharma Oli, Sher Bahadur Deuba and Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ have repeatedly returned to power. In 17 years as a republic, Nepal has had 14 governments, and no leader has completed a full five-year term.&nbsp;With the March elections approaching, the contest is shaping up to be a clash between entrenched parties fighting to hold on to power and a new generation of leaders seeking to redefine Nepal’s political future.&nbsp;

Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah and Minister of Energy Kulman Ghising may align with the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) in what could become a major challenge to Nepal’s traditional political forces. 

Nepal’s political landscape is shifting rapidly ahead of the March elections, with indications that Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, popularly known as Balen and Minister of Energy Kulman Ghising may align with the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) in what could become a major challenge to Nepal’s traditional political forces. RSP is moving to build a formidable political bloc by bringing prominent national figures into its fold, aiming to challenge Nepal’s traditional parties. Despite being in custody, RSP chair Rabi Lamichhane has been negotiating with Shah and his team from behind bars. Shah, a figure many in Nepal’s Gen Z see as a potential national leader. According to leaders familiar with the talks, RSP Vice President Swarnim Wagle and Shishir Khanal are leading the discussions from the party’s side. Kumar Ben, a close aide of Shah, has been representing him in these discussions. Parallel negotiations are also underway with Kulman Ghising, the widely popular figure credited with ending Nepal’s load-shedding crisis. Ghising, who recently launched the Ujyalo Nepal Party, is in talks for a potential senior leadership role within RSP. Sources say he is likely to join the emerging RSP-Balen bloc. Shah is expected to contest either from a constituency in Kathmandu or Jhapa-5, potentially setting up a direct contest against former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on his home turf. Oli has won from Jhapa six times in the past across multiple constituencies, making the showdown one of the most closely watched potential races of 2026. Shah’s potential role within the RSP-led coalition has reportedly already been outlined. According to negotiators, he has made it clear he is not seeking the prime ministership but is willing to support the party’s organisational expansion and serve as a key figure in the alliance. Sources involved in the negotiations confirmed to WION that both sides have reached an understanding to unite for the March elections with an ambitious goal: securing a two-thirds majority in parliament. Their shared goal is to form a stable government and break the decade-long cycle of hung parliaments that has defined Nepal’s political landscape. The youth wave extends beyond Shah. Gen Z leaders Sudan Gurung and Purushottam Yadav are also likely to join the bloc. Many emerging leaders believe that forming multiple small parties will dilute their impact, and consolidation under one platform offers a more powerful alternative to challenge Nepal’s traditional parties. Talks are now expanding to provincial-level alliances as well. A formal announcement is expected after Rabi Lamichhane is released from detention. Formed in 2022, the Rastriya Swatantra Party has quickly capitalised on voter frustration with Nepal’s old political guard. This is viewed as a coalition built on two of Nepal’s most influential new-age leaders. Rabi Lamichhane and Balen Shah are among the most followed and closely watched public figures in Nepal today. RSP’s rapid rise in the 2022 general elections, becoming the fourth-largest party within months of its creation, reflected Lamichhane’s widespread appeal among urban and young voters frustrated with corruption and status quo politics. Shah, who won the Kathmandu mayoral race with a record-breaking independent vote margin, has maintained exceptional public support through his assertive governance style, large digital following and ability to mobilise youth sentiment on civic issues. Shah had expressed his support for Gen-Z-led protests against corruption. Their combined appeal, youth culture and anti-establishment sentiment are seen by observers as a potentially disruptive force capable of reshaping Nepal’s electoral landscape. The September Gen Z uprising, fueled by frustration over corruption, censorship and unaccountable governance, has shaken Nepal’s traditional parties. It has triggered internal conversations about leadership changes in major parties, including CPN-UML, Nepali Congress and Maoist Centre, with lawmakers challenging long-standing party presidents. Nepal’s politics have often resembled a game of musical chairs, three former prime ministers - KP Sharma Oli, Sher Bahadur Deuba and Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ have repeatedly returned to power. In 17 years as a republic, Nepal has had 14 governments, and no leader has completed a full five-year term. With the March elections approaching, the contest is shaping up to be a clash between entrenched parties fighting to hold on to power and a new generation of leaders seeking to redefine Nepal’s political future.

Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah and Minister of Energy Kulman Ghising may align with the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) in what could become a major challenge to Nepal’s traditional political forces.&nbsp;

Kathmandu’s rapper-turned mayor to join Rabi Lamichhane for March polls

The death toll from the fire that swept through Hong Kong’s Wang Fuk Court estate has climbed to 146, police said on Sunday (Nov 30), as authorities in Beijing warned citizens against any "anti-China" protest. At the site of the horrific fire, rescuers have widened their search through the charred remains of the high-rise complex. Officers with the Disaster Victim Identification Unit recovered more bodies after entering three additional towers, but warned the number could rise further as work continues inside the burnt-out blocks.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-s-deadliest-fire-in-77-years-firefighting-efforts-end-with-at-least-128-dead-alarms-failed-in-all-8-towers-1764318275611">Hong Kong’s deadliest fire in 77 years: Firefighting efforts end with at least 128 dead; alarms failed in all 8 towers</a><h2>Deadliest fire in decades</h2>The Hong Kong high-rise fire is now considered the deadliest residential building fire in the world since 1980. For Hong Kong, it is its deadliest tragedy since 1948, when a blaze triggered by an explosion killed at least 135 people.<h2>China warns Hongkongers against protest</h2>The tragedy has sparked public anger over fire safety failures, construction oversight, and claims that warnings were ignored before the blaze. Pressure for accountability has been growing both online and on the ground. More than 1,000 residents queued outside the estate on Sunday, laying flowers, candles and handwritten messages in a scene that stretched late into the evening.On Saturday (Nov 29), China's national security authorities issued a stern notice warning citizens against using the disaster to stage protests or attempt to "plunge Hong Kong back into the chaos"."We sternly warn the anti-China disruptors who attempt to disrupt Hong Kong through disaster," the statement read.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-confirms-secret-call-with-maduro-what-was-really-said-1764550000178">Trump confirms secret call with Maduro. What was really said?</a>Hong Kong media reported that 24-year-old activist Miles Kwan was detained over an online petition calling for an independent investigation into the fire and allegations of corruption. The petition gathered more than 10,000 signatures within 24 hours. Speaking the day before his reported arrest, Kwan told AFP that "We need to be frank about how today's Hong Kong is riddled with holes, inside and out."Police did not confirm his detention, saying only that action would be taken in accordance with "actual circumstances and in accordance with the law".A second petition, launched by a Tai Po resident living overseas, has also gained traction with more than 2,700 signatures by Sunday. "The government owes Hongkongers genuine, explicit accountability," it read. Authorities have arrested 11 people so far over the fire. Construction works have been halted at 30 private building sites citywide, and an interdepartmental task force is investigating the cause of the blaze.

The Hong Kong high-rise inferno death toll has reached 146, with rescuers still searching burnt towers and officials warning the number may climb. Meanwhile, Beijing has cautioned citizens against "anti-China" protests.

The death toll from the fire that swept through Hong Kong’s Wang Fuk Court estate has climbed to 146, police said on Sunday (Nov 30), as authorities in Beijing warned citizens against any "anti-China" protest. At the site of the horrific fire, rescuers have widened their search through the charred remains of the high-rise complex. Officers with the Disaster Victim Identification Unit recovered more bodies after entering three additional towers, but warned the number could rise further as work continues inside the burnt-out blocks. Also read | Hong Kong’s deadliest fire in 77 years: Firefighting efforts end with at least 128 dead; alarms failed in all 8 towers Deadliest fire in decades The Hong Kong high-rise fire is now considered the deadliest residential building fire in the world since 1980. For Hong Kong, it is its deadliest tragedy since 1948, when a blaze triggered by an explosion killed at least 135 people. China warns Hongkongers against protest The tragedy has sparked public anger over fire safety failures, construction oversight, and claims that warnings were ignored before the blaze. Pressure for accountability has been growing both online and on the ground. More than 1,000 residents queued outside the estate on Sunday, laying flowers, candles and handwritten messages in a scene that stretched late into the evening. On Saturday (Nov 29), China's national security authorities issued a stern notice warning citizens against using the disaster to stage protests or attempt to "plunge Hong Kong back into the chaos". "We sternly warn the anti-China disruptors who attempt to disrupt Hong Kong through disaster," the statement read. Also read | Trump confirms secret call with Maduro. What was really said? Hong Kong media reported that 24-year-old activist Miles Kwan was detained over an online petition calling for an independent investigation into the fire and allegations of corruption. The petition gathered more than 10,000 signatures within 24 hours. Speaking the day before his reported arrest, Kwan told AFP that "We need to be frank about how today's Hong Kong is riddled with holes, inside and out." Police did not confirm his detention, saying only that action would be taken in accordance with "actual circumstances and in accordance with the law". A second petition, launched by a Tai Po resident living overseas, has also gained traction with more than 2,700 signatures by Sunday. "The government owes Hongkongers genuine, explicit accountability," it read. Authorities have arrested 11 people so far over the fire. Construction works have been halted at 30 private building sites citywide, and an interdepartmental task force is investigating the cause of the blaze.

The Hong Kong high-rise inferno death toll has reached 146, with rescuers still searching burnt towers and officials warning the number may climb. Meanwhile, Beijing has cautioned citizens against "anti-China" protests.

As Hong Kong fire toll soars to 146, Beijing warns against 'anti-China' protests

India’s Chief of Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, will undertake an official visit to Sri Lanka on 1–2 December 2025. At a superficial glance, it may appear to be another entry in the calendar of military diplomacy. In reality, the visit marks a significant moment — a strategic punctuation point in a year that has seen India–Sri Lanka defence ties advance with unusual consistency, professionalism and mutual assurance. It is the culmination of a sequence of engagements that reflect not episodic goodwill, but a deeper institutional maturity taking root between the two Armies.The visit follows a deliberate chain of high-level interactions. The Sri Lanka Army Commander’s official visit to India in June 2025 — where he returned to the Indian Military Academy (IMA) after more than three decades to review the Passing Out Parade — set the emotional and symbolic tone for the year. The Indian Navy Chief’s visit to Colombo in September reinforced the widening maritime axis of cooperation. Earlier, General M.M. Naravane’s 2021 visit, during which he engaged with Sri Lanka’s senior leadership and observed Exercise Mitra Shakti, had laid important professional foundations. These visits did not stand alone; taken together, they point to a defence relationship that has moved beyond individual personalities or convenient public moments.The December visit must be viewed against this continuum. It reflects the practical expression of India’s Neighbourhood First policy — a policy grounded not merely in diplomatic language, but in long-term commitments to stability, trust and capability-building within the Indian Ocean Region. India has never treated its ties with Sri Lanka as transactional. Instead, the partnership has been built through a patient, steady investment in Sri Lanka’s security capacity, whether through training, doctrine, maritime surveillance, cyber resilience or peacekeeping preparation.The conversations expected during the Army Chief’s visit will be substantive. Both Armies carry deep, lived experience in counter-terrorism and sub-conventional operations. India’s operational history — from the Northeast to Punjab to Jammu &amp; Kashmir — has shaped a sophisticated understanding of asymmetric conflict. Sri Lanka’s own experience in navigating internal security challenges offers perspectives that few militaries possess. Such shared operational memory creates rare intellectual common ground. It allows both sides to speak the same tactical language, interpret threats through comparable lenses, and identify realistic areas for collaboration.This alignment extends beyond classical operations. The two Armies are increasingly aware of emerging threats: the vulnerabilities introduced by unmanned systems, the challenges of network security, the strategic leverage created by space-based monitoring, and the speed with which cyber incidents can destabilise national decision cycles. These are no longer futuristic concerns — they are part of the contemporary operating environment and demand a shared professional vocabulary. Maritime security, too, has become an essential area of convergence. Both nations operate in a region marked by great-power assertions, contested waters, and the risks of grey-zone activity. In such an environment, coordinated maritime domain awareness and interoperable decision loops are no longer optional.Peacekeeping remains another strong pillar. India has long been recognised as one of the UN’s most dependable troop contributors. Sri Lanka has made steady contributions of its own. The United Nations Troop Contributing Countries Chiefs’ Conclave in New Delhi in October 2025 reflected this shared stake. There is considerable scope for both countries to refine their understanding of UN mandates, protection-of-civilians frameworks, quick-impact operations and mission-specific challenges — and to build compatible training modules that prepare troops for complex theatres in Africa and West Asia.The strategic convergence that frames the Chief’s visit is not confined to the military realm. Both India and Sri Lanka uphold strategic autonomy. Both recognise that security today is shaped not merely by territorial threats, but by globalised economic flows, maritime chokepoints, information networks and technological dependencies. Both have confronted terrorism directly and understand the cost of internal vulnerabilities. This common experience has created a pragmatic alignment that is not dictated by ideology or external pressures, but by the necessities of regional stability.This alignment is increasingly visible in multilateral platforms. Sri Lanka’s support for India’s aspirations within the United Nations system reflects confidence, not obligation. India’s support for Sri Lanka’s engagement with emerging groupings such as BRICS reflects acknowledgement of Sri Lanka’s strategic space, not patronage. These mutual positions demonstrate a partnership that respects sovereignty while advancing shared interests.The timing of the visit is particularly significant. By concluding a year in which senior military leaders from both countries have travelled across each other’s capitals, the Army Chief’s visit completes a full cycle of 2025’s engagement. It signals a transition: India–Sri Lanka defence ties are no longer characterised by occasional enthusiasm followed by long pauses. They now exhibit continuity, rhythm and professional predictability. They are becoming institutionalised — anchored in standing mechanisms, structured interactions, and regularised pathways for cooperation.Institutionalisation is perhaps the strongest marker of strategic maturity. It means that when political cycles shift, defence cooperation does not falter. It ensures that younger officers on both sides, trained together at IMA, DSSC or CIJWS, will inherit a living framework rather than a hollow shell. It means that when crises emerge — whether at sea, in cyber networks or on land — both Armies already understand each other’s processes, planning assumptions and operational instincts.The visit also takes place in a year when both Armies have demonstrated the confidence to acknowledge their shared history with clarity. India’s formal commemoration of the IPKF fallen at the National War Memorial in November 2025, and the Sri Lanka Army Commander’s wreath-laying at the same memorial earlier in the year, revealed a relationship mature enough to honour its past without allowing it to define the future. Such gestures are quiet, dignified and deeply meaningful. They reflect professionalism, not sentimentality; respect, not reticence.Seen from this perspective, the December visit honours a long lineage of cooperation and sacrifice. It acknowledges that India–Sri Lanka military ties have been shaped not only in conference rooms but in difficult operations, complex missions and shared experiences. It recognises 2025 as a year of systematic trust-building — not a sequence of gestures, but a steady expansion of institutional cooperation.Looking ahead, the visit will help shape the next phase of the partnership. The discussions in Colombo will influence the direction of training integration, maritime coordination, peacekeeping preparation and cyber-technical cooperation. They will reinforce the growing role of the Colombo Security Conclave as a regional security compact. And they will help define a shared approach to an Indian Ocean that is increasingly contested by actors far removed from the region’s interests.The Army Chief's visit is more than an official engagement. It is a marker of trust, continuity and strategic convergence. It reflects a defence relationship that has matured beyond personalities and grounded itself in values, institutions and shared purpose. For two nations linked by history, geography and the experiences of soldiers who have served through difficult times, the December 2025 visit stands as a testament to how far the partnership has travelled — and how much further it is poised to go.Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

The conversations expected during the Army Chief’s visit will be substantive. Both Armies carry deep, lived experience in counter-terrorism and sub-conventional operations.

India’s Chief of Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, will undertake an official visit to Sri Lanka on 1–2 December 2025. At a superficial glance, it may appear to be another entry in the calendar of military diplomacy. In reality, the visit marks a significant moment — a strategic punctuation point in a year that has seen India–Sri Lanka defence ties advance with unusual consistency, professionalism and mutual assurance. It is the culmination of a sequence of engagements that reflect not episodic goodwill, but a deeper institutional maturity taking root between the two Armies. The visit follows a deliberate chain of high-level interactions. The Sri Lanka Army Commander’s official visit to India in June 2025 — where he returned to the Indian Military Academy (IMA) after more than three decades to review the Passing Out Parade — set the emotional and symbolic tone for the year. The Indian Navy Chief’s visit to Colombo in September reinforced the widening maritime axis of cooperation. Earlier, General M.M. Naravane’s 2021 visit, during which he engaged with Sri Lanka’s senior leadership and observed Exercise Mitra Shakti, had laid important professional foundations. These visits did not stand alone; taken together, they point to a defence relationship that has moved beyond individual personalities or convenient public moments. The December visit must be viewed against this continuum. It reflects the practical expression of India’s Neighbourhood First policy — a policy grounded not merely in diplomatic language, but in long-term commitments to stability, trust and capability-building within the Indian Ocean Region. India has never treated its ties with Sri Lanka as transactional. Instead, the partnership has been built through a patient, steady investment in Sri Lanka’s security capacity, whether through training, doctrine, maritime surveillance, cyber resilience or peacekeeping preparation. The conversations expected during the Army Chief’s visit will be substantive. Both Armies carry deep, lived experience in counter-terrorism and sub-conventional operations. India’s operational history — from the Northeast to Punjab to Jammu & Kashmir — has shaped a sophisticated understanding of asymmetric conflict. Sri Lanka’s own experience in navigating internal security challenges offers perspectives that few militaries possess. Such shared operational memory creates rare intellectual common ground. It allows both sides to speak the same tactical language, interpret threats through comparable lenses, and identify realistic areas for collaboration. This alignment extends beyond classical operations. The two Armies are increasingly aware of emerging threats: the vulnerabilities introduced by unmanned systems, the challenges of network security, the strategic leverage created by space-based monitoring, and the speed with which cyber incidents can destabilise national decision cycles. These are no longer futuristic concerns — they are part of the contemporary operating environment and demand a shared professional vocabulary. Maritime security, too, has become an essential area of convergence. Both nations operate in a region marked by great-power assertions, contested waters, and the risks of grey-zone activity. In such an environment, coordinated maritime domain awareness and interoperable decision loops are no longer optional. Peacekeeping remains another strong pillar. India has long been recognised as one of the UN’s most dependable troop contributors. Sri Lanka has made steady contributions of its own. The United Nations Troop Contributing Countries Chiefs’ Conclave in New Delhi in October 2025 reflected this shared stake. There is considerable scope for both countries to refine their understanding of UN mandates, protection-of-civilians frameworks, quick-impact operations and mission-specific challenges — and to build compatible training modules that prepare troops for complex theatres in Africa and West Asia. The strategic convergence that frames the Chief’s visit is not confined to the military realm. Both India and Sri Lanka uphold strategic autonomy. Both recognise that security today is shaped not merely by territorial threats, but by globalised economic flows, maritime chokepoints, information networks and technological dependencies. Both have confronted terrorism directly and understand the cost of internal vulnerabilities. This common experience has created a pragmatic alignment that is not dictated by ideology or external pressures, but by the necessities of regional stability. This alignment is increasingly visible in multilateral platforms. Sri Lanka’s support for India’s aspirations within the United Nations system reflects confidence, not obligation. India’s support for Sri Lanka’s engagement with emerging groupings such as BRICS reflects acknowledgement of Sri Lanka’s strategic space, not patronage. These mutual positions demonstrate a partnership that respects sovereignty while advancing shared interests. The timing of the visit is particularly significant. By concluding a year in which senior military leaders from both countries have travelled across each other’s capitals, the Army Chief’s visit completes a full cycle of 2025’s engagement. It signals a transition: India–Sri Lanka defence ties are no longer characterised by occasional enthusiasm followed by long pauses. They now exhibit continuity, rhythm and professional predictability. They are becoming institutionalised — anchored in standing mechanisms, structured interactions, and regularised pathways for cooperation. Institutionalisation is perhaps the strongest marker of strategic maturity. It means that when political cycles shift, defence cooperation does not falter. It ensures that younger officers on both sides, trained together at IMA, DSSC or CIJWS, will inherit a living framework rather than a hollow shell. It means that when crises emerge — whether at sea, in cyber networks or on land — both Armies already understand each other’s processes, planning assumptions and operational instincts. The visit also takes place in a year when both Armies have demonstrated the confidence to acknowledge their shared history with clarity. India’s formal commemoration of the IPKF fallen at the National War Memorial in November 2025, and the Sri Lanka Army Commander’s wreath-laying at the same memorial earlier in the year, revealed a relationship mature enough to honour its past without allowing it to define the future. Such gestures are quiet, dignified and deeply meaningful. They reflect professionalism, not sentimentality; respect, not reticence. Seen from this perspective, the December visit honours a long lineage of cooperation and sacrifice. It acknowledges that India–Sri Lanka military ties have been shaped not only in conference rooms but in difficult operations, complex missions and shared experiences. It recognises 2025 as a year of systematic trust-building — not a sequence of gestures, but a steady expansion of institutional cooperation. Looking ahead, the visit will help shape the next phase of the partnership. The discussions in Colombo will influence the direction of training integration, maritime coordination, peacekeeping preparation and cyber-technical cooperation. They will reinforce the growing role of the Colombo Security Conclave as a regional security compact. And they will help define a shared approach to an Indian Ocean that is increasingly contested by actors far removed from the region’s interests. The Army Chief's visit is more than an official engagement. It is a marker of trust, continuity and strategic convergence. It reflects a defence relationship that has matured beyond personalities and grounded itself in values, institutions and shared purpose. For two nations linked by history, geography and the experiences of soldiers who have served through difficult times, the December 2025 visit stands as a testament to how far the partnership has travelled — and how much further it is poised to go. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

The conversations expected during the Army Chief’s visit will be substantive. Both Armies carry deep, lived experience in counter-terrorism and sub-conventional operations.

A year of deepening defence ties: Why the Indian army chief’s Sri Lanka visit matters

While the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina remains the bone of contention in the relations between Bangladesh and India, Dhaka has now expressed its confidence that this issue won't derail the ties. This comes weeks after Bangladesh’s ousted prime minister Hasina was sentenced by a tribunal court for action against humanity in August 2024. Even as Dhaka has urged New Delhi to extradite the ousted PM, the latest statement comes as a signal that Muhammad Yunus-led interim government wants good relations with India as well. &nbsp;&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-too-many-powerful-heads-modi-xi-sheikh-hasina-s-ouster-from-bangladesh-was-cia-plot-minister-makes-sensational-claims-1762234282771">'Too many powerful heads, Modi, Xi...': Sheikh Hasina's ouster from Bangladesh was CIA plot? Minister makes sensational claims</a>&nbsp;In a statement, the interim government’s Foreign Affairs Adviser, Mohammad Touhid Hossain noted that relations with India are based on long-term strategic interests. "I think our relations won’t be stuck on one issue alone," he told reporters, adding that since Hasina is now a declared convict, Bangladesh expects swift action from New Delhi. Bangladesh formally submitted the extradition request last week through its High Commission in New Delhi under an existing treaty. "India needs some time to adjust to the new realities," he said. "We would like to have better working relations with India based on interest," Hossain added.&nbsp;On Nov 17, the ICT convicted Hasina of crimes against humanity, ruling that she orchestrated a brutal state crackdown in 2024 against the protesting students. The tribunal court sentenced her to death. The trial was held in her absence and the verdict marked the first time a former Bangladeshi leader has been found guilty of such offences. India 's Ministry of External Affairs said it had "noted" the verdict on Hasina, adding: “As a close neighbour, India remains committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh... We will always engage constructively with all stakeholders.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, in its statement, the Awami League not only rejected the verdict but also called the upcoming elections a farce. "As part of that conspiracy, they staged this mockery of a trial in their own manufactured court. The Awami League is not only rejecting the illegal ICT verdict, but is also working at the grassroots, holding discussions with political leaders, stakeholders and people from all walks of life to break the web of plots woven by this occupying force. It is now clear to everyone that the Yunus clique is engaged in anti-state conspiracies...A staged election excluding the pro-liberation forces, the Awami League and Sheikh Hasina will not be allowed in Bangladesh. It will be resisted at any cost."&nbsp;Read More |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-yunus-is-a-cheat-sheikh-hasina-vows-to-return-to-bangladesh-to-deliver-justice-calls-student-uprising-terror-attack-1762230893568">'Yunus is a cheat': Sheikh Hasina vows to return to Bangladesh 'to deliver justice', calls student uprising 'terror attack'</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Bangladesh's former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, in a new book, had claimed that Army Chief Waker-Uz-Zaman acted as the CIA's agent and orchestrated the coup. Calling the army chief the “main plotter”, Kamal accused the US of destabilizing Bangladesh, claiming that America doesn't want “too many powerful heads of state in South Asia.” He named Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Sheikh Hasina in the list of powerful leaders in South Asia. He also repeated Hasina's claims that the US wants St Martin’s Island from Bangladesh.

Bangladesh has urged India to extradite former PM Sheikh Hasina after her conviction and death sentence issued in absentia. Dhaka says the issue won’t affect bilateral ties but expects swift action. India has yet to formally respond, while Bangladesh considers escalating the matter

While the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina remains the bone of contention in the relations between Bangladesh and India, Dhaka has now expressed its confidence that this issue won't derail the ties. This comes weeks after Bangladesh’s ousted prime minister Hasina was sentenced by a tribunal court for action against humanity in August 2024. Even as Dhaka has urged New Delhi to extradite the ousted PM, the latest statement comes as a signal that Muhammad Yunus-led interim government wants good relations with India as well. Read More | 'Too many powerful heads, Modi, Xi...': Sheikh Hasina's ouster from Bangladesh was CIA plot? Minister makes sensational claims In a statement, the interim government’s Foreign Affairs Adviser, Mohammad Touhid Hossain noted that relations with India are based on long-term strategic interests. "I think our relations won’t be stuck on one issue alone," he told reporters, adding that since Hasina is now a declared convict, Bangladesh expects swift action from New Delhi. Bangladesh formally submitted the extradition request last week through its High Commission in New Delhi under an existing treaty. "India needs some time to adjust to the new realities," he said. "We would like to have better working relations with India based on interest," Hossain added. On Nov 17, the ICT convicted Hasina of crimes against humanity, ruling that she orchestrated a brutal state crackdown in 2024 against the protesting students. The tribunal court sentenced her to death. The trial was held in her absence and the verdict marked the first time a former Bangladeshi leader has been found guilty of such offences. India 's Ministry of External Affairs said it had "noted" the verdict on Hasina, adding: “As a close neighbour, India remains committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh... We will always engage constructively with all stakeholders.” Meanwhile, in its statement, the Awami League not only rejected the verdict but also called the upcoming elections a farce. "As part of that conspiracy, they staged this mockery of a trial in their own manufactured court. The Awami League is not only rejecting the illegal ICT verdict, but is also working at the grassroots, holding discussions with political leaders, stakeholders and people from all walks of life to break the web of plots woven by this occupying force. It is now clear to everyone that the Yunus clique is engaged in anti-state conspiracies...A staged election excluding the pro-liberation forces, the Awami League and Sheikh Hasina will not be allowed in Bangladesh. It will be resisted at any cost." Read More |'Yunus is a cheat': Sheikh Hasina vows to return to Bangladesh 'to deliver justice', calls student uprising 'terror attack' Earlier, Bangladesh's former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, in a new book, had claimed that Army Chief Waker-Uz-Zaman acted as the CIA's agent and orchestrated the coup. Calling the army chief the “main plotter”, Kamal accused the US of destabilizing Bangladesh, claiming that America doesn't want “too many powerful heads of state in South Asia.” He named Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Sheikh Hasina in the list of powerful leaders in South Asia. He also repeated Hasina's claims that the US wants St Martin’s Island from Bangladesh.

Bangladesh has urged India to extradite former PM Sheikh Hasina after her conviction and death sentence issued in absentia. Dhaka says the issue won’t affect bilateral ties but expects swift action. India has yet to formally respond, while Bangladesh considers escalating the matter

'Adjust to new realities': Bangladesh wants India to extradite Sheikh Hasina soon, but says 'our ties...'

As South and South East Asia face one of their deadliest weeks of weather destruction in years, the death toll from the floods and landslides triggered by heavy monsoon rains and a tropical storm has killed more than 900 people across Sri Lanka, Indonesia and Thailand, according to reports. Hundreds are still missing as rescue crews struggle to reach communities cut off by collapsed bridges, blocked roads and rising water.<h2>Sri Lanka death toll</h2>In Sri Lanka, on Sunday, authorities said that at least 334 people are dead after Cyclone Ditwah swept across the island. Colombo’s low-lying neighbourhoods, said authorities. Nearly 150,000 people have been displaced by the worst natural disaster to hit the island in nearly two decades.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-reels-after-floods-ravage-island-killing-hundreds-1764498110634">Indonesia reels after floods ravage island, killing hundreds</a>Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has declared a state of emergency and appealed for global support. He promised to rebuild, saying, "We are facing the largest and most challenging natural disaster in our history." In an address to the nation, he added, "Certainly, we will build a better nation than what existed before."<h2>Indonesia toll</h2>Across the sea in Indonesia, the damage is just as immense. More than 442 people are confirmed dead, 402 remain missing, and large parts of Sumatra are still unreachable. Survivors describe water rising through homes in minutes, leaving families with no time to gather anything beyond the clothes they wore while fleeing. Talking to Reuters, one woman identified as Afrianti said, "The water just rose up into the house, and we were afraid, so we fled. Then we came back on Friday, and the house was gone, destroyed."With at least two areas of Sumatra island still unreachable on Sunday, authorities said two warships have been sent from Jakarta to deliver aid to the worst-hit zones. Videos online show residents wading waist-deep through black water to reach supplies inside damaged convenience stores. Talking to AP, police spokesperson Ferry Walintukan said there were reports of people breaking into shops on Saturday evening. "The looting happened before logistical aid arrived," he said, adding they "didn’t know that aid would come and were worried they would starve."<h2>Thailand toll</h2>Thailand has reported 162 deaths. Compensation has been announced for grieving families, but amid growing criticism over Thailand's flood response, two officials have been suspended for alleged negligence.

More than 900 people have died in devastating monsoon floods and landslides across Sri Lanka, Indonesia and Thailand. Sri Lanka alone has reported 334 deaths, Indonesia 442 with hundreds missing, and Thailand 162. Rescue efforts continue.

As South and South East Asia face one of their deadliest weeks of weather destruction in years, the death toll from the floods and landslides triggered by heavy monsoon rains and a tropical storm has killed more than 900 people across Sri Lanka, Indonesia and Thailand, according to reports. Hundreds are still missing as rescue crews struggle to reach communities cut off by collapsed bridges, blocked roads and rising water. Sri Lanka death toll In Sri Lanka, on Sunday, authorities said that at least 334 people are dead after Cyclone Ditwah swept across the island. Colombo’s low-lying neighbourhoods, said authorities. Nearly 150,000 people have been displaced by the worst natural disaster to hit the island in nearly two decades. Also read | Indonesia reels after floods ravage island, killing hundreds Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has declared a state of emergency and appealed for global support. He promised to rebuild, saying, "We are facing the largest and most challenging natural disaster in our history." In an address to the nation, he added, "Certainly, we will build a better nation than what existed before." Indonesia toll Across the sea in Indonesia, the damage is just as immense. More than 442 people are confirmed dead, 402 remain missing, and large parts of Sumatra are still unreachable. Survivors describe water rising through homes in minutes, leaving families with no time to gather anything beyond the clothes they wore while fleeing. Talking to Reuters, one woman identified as Afrianti said, "The water just rose up into the house, and we were afraid, so we fled. Then we came back on Friday, and the house was gone, destroyed." With at least two areas of Sumatra island still unreachable on Sunday, authorities said two warships have been sent from Jakarta to deliver aid to the worst-hit zones. Videos online show residents wading waist-deep through black water to reach supplies inside damaged convenience stores. Talking to AP, police spokesperson Ferry Walintukan said there were reports of people breaking into shops on Saturday evening. "The looting happened before logistical aid arrived," he said, adding they "didn’t know that aid would come and were worried they would starve." Thailand toll Thailand has reported 162 deaths. Compensation has been announced for grieving families, but amid growing criticism over Thailand's flood response, two officials have been suspended for alleged negligence.

More than 900 people have died in devastating monsoon floods and landslides across Sri Lanka, Indonesia and Thailand. Sri Lanka alone has reported 334 deaths, Indonesia 442 with hundreds missing, and Thailand 162. Rescue efforts continue.

Asia’s monsoon apocalypse: Over 900 dead, hundreds missing across Sri Lanka, Indonesia and Thailand | Cyclone Ditwah

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Nov 30) said that the pause on asylum decisions for several foreign nationals, including Afghanistan, could remain in place for what he described as a "long time". This follows the fatal shooting of two National Guard members near the White House last week. One guard, 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom, was killed in the attack on November 26, and another remains in critical condition. The suspected gunman, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is a 29-year-old Afghan national who arrived in the United States through a resettlement pathway for Afghans who assisted US intelligence operations during the war. Lakanwal had once been part of a CIA-supported force battling the Taliban and received asylum in April 2025. He has now been charged with first-degree murder.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-biden-let-national-guard-killer-into-us-but-docs-show-he-signed-the-asylum-papers-all-deets-inside-1764305041728">Trump says Biden let National Guard killer into US, but docs show he signed the asylum papers. All deets inside</a><h2>But how long exactly?</h2>Trump, when asked to specify how long the asylum decision pause would last, vaguely said he had "no time limit" in mind. Calling asylum seekers "no good", he told reporters, "We don't want those people." Trump then asked, "You know why we don't want them? Because many have been no good, and they shouldn't be in our country."The killing of a National Guardswoman triggered a swift and politically charged reaction from the administration. Trump has framed the shooting as proof that the US immigration system is broken. He blamed what he called loose vetting under former president Joe Biden for Lakanwal's entry to the US during the chaotic Kabul evacuation in 2021.The Department of Homeland Security said the asylum freeze applies to nationals from 19 countries that have faced travel restrictions since June. The list includes Afghanistan, Cuba, Haiti, Iran and Myanmar, among others.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sarah-beckstrom-one-of-the-national-guards-shot-near-white-house-dies-trump-says-other-soldier-in-very-bad-shape-1764290615212">Sarah Beckstrom, one of the National Guards shot near White House dies; Trump says other soldier ‘fighting for life’</a><h2>A permanent pause in the cards?</h2>Trump had earlier also hinted that the pause could be permanent. Shortly after the shooting, he wrote that he intended to "permanently pause" migration from what he referred to as Third World countries until the US immigration system "recovers."

Trump suggested the pause on asylum decisions for several countries could last indefinitely after a National Guard shooting near the White House. The Afghan suspect had US asylum since 2025 and now faces murder charges.


US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Nov 30) said that the pause on asylum decisions for several foreign nationals, including Afghanistan, could remain in place for what he described as a "long time". This follows the fatal shooting of two National Guard members near the White House last week. One guard, 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom, was killed in the attack on November 26, and another remains in critical condition. The suspected gunman, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is a 29-year-old Afghan national who arrived in the United States through a resettlement pathway for Afghans who assisted US intelligence operations during the war. Lakanwal had once been part of a CIA-supported force battling the Taliban and received asylum in April 2025. He has now been charged with first-degree murder. Also read | Trump says Biden let National Guard killer into US, but docs show he signed the asylum papers. All deets inside But how long exactly? Trump, when asked to specify how long the asylum decision pause would last, vaguely said he had "no time limit" in mind. Calling asylum seekers "no good", he told reporters, "We don't want those people." Trump then asked, "You know why we don't want them? Because many have been no good, and they shouldn't be in our country." The killing of a National Guardswoman triggered a swift and politically charged reaction from the administration. Trump has framed the shooting as proof that the US immigration system is broken. He blamed what he called loose vetting under former president Joe Biden for Lakanwal's entry to the US during the chaotic Kabul evacuation in 2021. The Department of Homeland Security said the asylum freeze applies to nationals from 19 countries that have faced travel restrictions since June. The list includes Afghanistan, Cuba, Haiti, Iran and Myanmar, among others. Also read | Sarah Beckstrom, one of the National Guards shot near White House dies; Trump says other soldier ‘fighting for life’ A permanent pause in the cards? Trump had earlier also hinted that the pause could be permanent. Shortly after the shooting, he wrote that he intended to "permanently pause" migration from what he referred to as Third World countries until the US immigration system "recovers."

Trump suggested the pause on asylum decisions for several countries could last indefinitely after a National Guard shooting near the White House. The Afghan suspect had US asylum since 2025 and now faces murder charges.

US asylum pause could last 'a long time,' says Trump after Afghan migrant kills National Guardswoman near White House

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Nov 30) said that there was a “good chance” of a peace deal to end Russia’s war in Ukraine following recent talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky’s delegates in Florida. However, he noted that the corruption scandal in Kyiv that forced Zelensky to sack his chief of staff and top negotiator was not helping.&nbsp;“Ukraine’s got some difficult little problems,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One, referring to the corruption probe in Ukraine. “But I think that there's a good chance we can make a deal,” he added.&nbsp;Hours after discussions in Hallandale Beach, north of Miami, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that more work was required to reach a Russia-Ukraine deal.&nbsp;&nbsp;“This is delicate. It's complicated,” Rubio said. “There are a lot of moving parts, and obviously there’s another party involved here that will have to be a part of the equation, and that will continue later this week when Mr Witkoff travels to Moscow.”&nbsp;While both sides described the talks as “productive”, a Kyiv delegation source told AFP that the discussions are “not easy”. Meanwhile, Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to visit Moscow to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Dec 2).&nbsp;<h2>Ukraine corruption scandal</h2>&nbsp;Zelensky’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, has come under scrutiny as the nation’s anti-corruption authorities carried out a raid at his apartment on Friday (Nov 28). The investigators said that they had discovered a $100-million kickback scheme in the strategic energy sector earlier this month, sparking widespread public outrage. The revelation came at a time when Russia was blasting the country’s power grid, forcing blackouts across the country as Ukrainians faced heating outages in winter.&nbsp;Despite playing a key role in negotiations, Zelensky’s chief of staff is a divisive figure in the country. His opponents have accused him of accumulating power, gate-keeping access to the president, and ruthlessly sidelining critical voices.

Trump noted that the corruption scandal in Kyiv that forced Zelensky to sack his chief of staff and top negotiator was not helping.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday (Nov 30) said that there was a “good chance” of a peace deal to end Russia’s war in Ukraine following recent talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky’s delegates in Florida. However, he noted that the corruption scandal in Kyiv that forced Zelensky to sack his chief of staff and top negotiator was not helping. “Ukraine’s got some difficult little problems,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One, referring to the corruption probe in Ukraine. “But I think that there's a good chance we can make a deal,” he added. Hours after discussions in Hallandale Beach, north of Miami, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that more work was required to reach a Russia-Ukraine deal. “This is delicate. It's complicated,” Rubio said. “There are a lot of moving parts, and obviously there’s another party involved here that will have to be a part of the equation, and that will continue later this week when Mr Witkoff travels to Moscow.” While both sides described the talks as “productive”, a Kyiv delegation source told AFP that the discussions are “not easy”. Meanwhile, Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to visit Moscow to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Dec 2). Ukraine corruption scandal Zelensky’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, has come under scrutiny as the nation’s anti-corruption authorities carried out a raid at his apartment on Friday (Nov 28). The investigators said that they had discovered a $100-million kickback scheme in the strategic energy sector earlier this month, sparking widespread public outrage. The revelation came at a time when Russia was blasting the country’s power grid, forcing blackouts across the country as Ukrainians faced heating outages in winter. Despite playing a key role in negotiations, Zelensky’s chief of staff is a divisive figure in the country. His opponents have accused him of accumulating power, gate-keeping access to the president, and ruthlessly sidelining critical voices.

Trump noted that the corruption scandal in Kyiv that forced Zelensky to sack his chief of staff and top negotiator was not helping.

Can Kyiv’s corruption scandal derail Russia-Ukraine talks? Trump says Zelensky got ‘difficult problem’

US President Donald Trump confirmed on Sunday (Nov 30) that he recently spoke with Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. The revelation comes amid the sharpest tension in years between Washington and Caracas. The call was reportedly brief, and Trump refused to reveal whether it "went well or badly". While talking to reporters aboard Air Force One, he said, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly. It was a phone call", offering little detail beyond the acknowledgement itself.<h2>What did Trump-Maduro talk about?</h2>The New York Times reported days earlier that the two leaders discussed conditions for a potential face-to-face meeting, while the Wall Street Journal said the call touched on possible amnesty should Maduro were to step down. On Sunday, Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin, while appearing on CNN's "State of the Union" talk show, said that the US has offered Maduro the chance to leave his country for Russia or elsewhere.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-signals-new-push-to-choke-off-venezuelan-drug-flow-says-land-crackdowns-are-coming-very-soon-1764292863262">Trump signals new push to choke off drug flow, says land crackdowns against Venezuela are coming 'very soon'</a><h2>Attack or anti-narcotics operation?</h2>Caracas, meanwhile, has accused the United States of preparing for an attack. Venezuelan officials point to an expanding deployment of US naval and air assets in nearby waters, as well as statements from Washington claiming Venezuelan airspace is now effectively closed. US officials, however, insist that the build-up was part of a sweeping anti-drug operation launched in September, aimed at shutting down trafficking routes.Trump has framed the mission as a crackdown on what Washington calls the "Cartel of the Suns," a group it claims is run by Maduro and senior figures in Venezuela’s security forces. The US has even offered a $50 million reward for Maduro’s capture. However, Venezuelan officials and experts say the cartel is more rumour than fact and insist that it refers to the corruption of senior officials by criminal gangs.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-backs-nicolas-maduro-blasts-us-meddling-as-warships-circle-venezuela-1764051446049">Xi Jinping backs Nicolas Maduro, blasts US meddling as warships circle Venezuela, vows to protect Caracas' sovereignty</a><h2>Venezuela seeks OPEC's help</h2>Inside Venezuela, the government is moving to shore up political support abroad. Maduro has formally asked Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to intervene and help "stop this (American) aggression, which is being readied with more and more force." In a letter to the group, Maduro alleged Washington "is trying to seize Venezuela's vast oil reserves, the biggest in the world, by using military force," Maduro wrote in the letter.

US President Donald Trump confirmed he held a call with Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro. Reports suggest they discussed conditions for a future meeting and potential amnesty if Maduro stepped down. Here's all you need to know.

US President Donald Trump confirmed on Sunday (Nov 30) that he recently spoke with Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. The revelation comes amid the sharpest tension in years between Washington and Caracas. The call was reportedly brief, and Trump refused to reveal whether it "went well or badly". While talking to reporters aboard Air Force One, he said, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly. It was a phone call", offering little detail beyond the acknowledgement itself. What did Trump-Maduro talk about? The New York Times reported days earlier that the two leaders discussed conditions for a potential face-to-face meeting, while the Wall Street Journal said the call touched on possible amnesty should Maduro were to step down. On Sunday, Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin, while appearing on CNN's "State of the Union" talk show, said that the US has offered Maduro the chance to leave his country for Russia or elsewhere. Also read | Trump signals new push to choke off drug flow, says land crackdowns against Venezuela are coming 'very soon' Attack or anti-narcotics operation? Caracas, meanwhile, has accused the United States of preparing for an attack. Venezuelan officials point to an expanding deployment of US naval and air assets in nearby waters, as well as statements from Washington claiming Venezuelan airspace is now effectively closed. US officials, however, insist that the build-up was part of a sweeping anti-drug operation launched in September, aimed at shutting down trafficking routes. Trump has framed the mission as a crackdown on what Washington calls the "Cartel of the Suns," a group it claims is run by Maduro and senior figures in Venezuela’s security forces. The US has even offered a $50 million reward for Maduro’s capture. However, Venezuelan officials and experts say the cartel is more rumour than fact and insist that it refers to the corruption of senior officials by criminal gangs. Also read | Xi Jinping backs Nicolas Maduro, blasts US meddling as warships circle Venezuela, vows to protect Caracas' sovereignty Venezuela seeks OPEC's help Inside Venezuela, the government is moving to shore up political support abroad. Maduro has formally asked Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to intervene and help "stop this (American) aggression, which is being readied with more and more force." In a letter to the group, Maduro alleged Washington "is trying to seize Venezuela's vast oil reserves, the biggest in the world, by using military force," Maduro wrote in the letter.

US President Donald Trump confirmed he held a call with Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro. Reports suggest they discussed conditions for a future meeting and potential amnesty if Maduro stepped down. Here's all you need to know.

Trump confirms secret call with Maduro. What was really said?

Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has revealed that his partner Shivon Zilis is half-Indian and was given up for adoption when she was a baby. In another revelation, Musk shared that he has named one of his sons with Zilis as Sekhar, after Indian-American physicist and Nobel laureate Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar. Appearing on Zerodha founder Nikhil Kamath’s podcast, the billionaire said, “I’m not sure if you know this, but my partner Shivon is half Indian.”&nbsp;&nbsp;“One of my sons with her, his middle name is Sekhar after Chandrasekhar,” he added.&nbsp;On being further asked about the ancestral details of Zilis, Musk said, “She grew up in Canada. She was given up for adoption when she was a baby. I think her father was like an exchange student at the university or something like that.”“I’m not sure the exact details, but you know it was kind of thing where I don’t know, she was given up for adoption. But she grew up in Canada,” Musk added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-tried-to-dissuade-him-but-unsuccessfully-elon-musk-on-trump-s-tariff-policy-1764521359201">‘Tried to dissuade him, but unsuccessfully’: Elon Musk on Trump’s tariff policy</a>&nbsp;Zilis joined Musk’s AI company, Neuralink, in 2017 and is currently the Director of Operations and Special Projects. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Philosophy from Yale University.&nbsp;Zilis has four children with Musk: twins, Strider and Azure; daughter Arcadia; and son Seldon Lycurgus.&nbsp;Musk also shared his views on having kids and parenthood during the conversation and encouraged Kamath to have kids when he said he doesn’t have any.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-politics-now-trumps-economics-says-jaishankar-stresses-on-supply-chain-diversification-1764442632789">‘Politics now ‘trumps’ economics,’ says Jaishankar, stresses on supply chain diversification</a>&nbsp;After urging Kamath to consider starting a family, Musk offered a thoughtful explanation about the joy and purpose he finds in parenthood.&nbsp;“Well, I mean, you’ve got this little creature that loves you, and you love this little creature. And I do not know, you kind of see the world through their eyes as they grow up, and their conscious awareness increases. From a baby that has no idea what is going on, cannot survive by itself, cannot even walk around, cannot talk, to stop walking, then talking, and then having interesting thoughts. And but, yeah, I mean, I think we fundamentally have to have kids or go extinct, you know,” the billionaire said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-launches-website-to-expose-misleading-biased-coverage-of-trump-admin-1764447383766">White House launches website to ‘expose’ ‘misleading, biased’ coverage of Trump admin</a>&nbsp;

Elon Musk shared that he has named one of his sons with partner Shivon Zilis as Sekhar, after Indian-American physicist and Nobel laureate Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar and encouraged Nikhil Kamath to have kids when he said he doesn’t have any.

Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has revealed that his partner Shivon Zilis is half-Indian and was given up for adoption when she was a baby. In another revelation, Musk shared that he has named one of his sons with Zilis as Sekhar, after Indian-American physicist and Nobel laureate Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar. Appearing on Zerodha founder Nikhil Kamath’s podcast, the billionaire said, “I’m not sure if you know this, but my partner Shivon is half Indian.” “One of my sons with her, his middle name is Sekhar after Chandrasekhar,” he added. On being further asked about the ancestral details of Zilis, Musk said, “She grew up in Canada. She was given up for adoption when she was a baby. I think her father was like an exchange student at the university or something like that.” “I’m not sure the exact details, but you know it was kind of thing where I don’t know, she was given up for adoption. But she grew up in Canada,” Musk added. Also Read: ‘Tried to dissuade him, but unsuccessfully’: Elon Musk on Trump’s tariff policy Zilis joined Musk’s AI company, Neuralink, in 2017 and is currently the Director of Operations and Special Projects. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Philosophy from Yale University. Zilis has four children with Musk: twins, Strider and Azure; daughter Arcadia; and son Seldon Lycurgus. Musk also shared his views on having kids and parenthood during the conversation and encouraged Kamath to have kids when he said he doesn’t have any. Also Read: ‘Politics now ‘trumps’ economics,’ says Jaishankar, stresses on supply chain diversification After urging Kamath to consider starting a family, Musk offered a thoughtful explanation about the joy and purpose he finds in parenthood. “Well, I mean, you’ve got this little creature that loves you, and you love this little creature. And I do not know, you kind of see the world through their eyes as they grow up, and their conscious awareness increases. From a baby that has no idea what is going on, cannot survive by itself, cannot even walk around, cannot talk, to stop walking, then talking, and then having interesting thoughts. And but, yeah, I mean, I think we fundamentally have to have kids or go extinct, you know,” the billionaire said. Also Read: White House launches website to ‘expose’ ‘misleading, biased’ coverage of Trump admin

Elon Musk shared that he has named one of his sons with partner Shivon Zilis as Sekhar, after Indian-American physicist and Nobel laureate Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar and encouraged Nikhil Kamath to have kids when he said he doesn’t have any.

‘Partner Shivon Zilis half-Indian, our son’s middle name is Sekhar’: Musk reveals in podcast

Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Khaleda Zia remains in ‘very critical’ condition in a Dhaka hospital, according to members of her party, as her family members and supporters urged citizens to pray for her good health and speedy recovery. She was admitted to the hospital on November 23 after developing a chest infection and has remained in intensive care since.&nbsp;Zia, 80, leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and two-time PM, has a permanent pacemaker and previously underwent stenting for her heart.&nbsp;BNP’s self-exiled acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, 60, expressed gratitude towards supporters for their well wishes, “We express our heartfelt thanks and gratitude for all your prayers and love for the highly respected Begum Khaleda Zia,” Rahman said in a social media post.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-seeks-pardon-in-corruption-cases-writes-to-israeli-president-after-trump-s-request-fails-gaza-palestine-donald-trump-bibi-modi-1764513740991">Netanyahu seeks pardon in corruption cases; writes to Israeli President after Trump’s request fails</a>&nbsp;Rehman, who has been living in the UK since 2008, said his return to the home country was not entirely in his control, adding that “like any child,” he longs to be near his mother at this “moment of crisis.”&nbsp;“Unlike others, to make a unilateral decision in this regard is not in my hands alone nor solely within my control. The sensitivity of this matter also limits the scope for detailed explanation,” he wrote.&nbsp;Rahman, the only surviving offspring of Zia, said that he is hopeful “once the current political realities reach the expected stage, my long and anxious wait to return to my homeland will finally come to an end.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/should-us-end-h-1b-programme-know-what-elon-musk-thinks-about-indian-immigrants-donald-trump-elon-musk-tesla-immigration-indian-immigration-us-1764519420595">Should US end H-1B programme? Know what Elon Musk thinks about Indian immigrants</a>&nbsp;In response to his post, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus’ office said the Interim government had no objections regarding his return. “There are no restrictions or objections from the government in this matter,” Yunus’s press secretary, Shafiqul Alam, said. With national elections scheduled for next year, Zia’s health has taken on added political importance. The BNP has re-emerged as a central force in Bangladesh’s shifting political landscape after a student-led uprising toppled Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government on August 5, 2024.

Zia’s only surviving child and the BNP’s acting chief, Tarique Rahman, who has lived in the UK since 2008, said he wants to be with his ailing mother, but cannot decide on his return alone amid the ongoing political turmoil in Bangladesh.

Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Khaleda Zia remains in ‘very critical’ condition in a Dhaka hospital, according to members of her party, as her family members and supporters urged citizens to pray for her good health and speedy recovery. She was admitted to the hospital on November 23 after developing a chest infection and has remained in intensive care since. Zia, 80, leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and two-time PM, has a permanent pacemaker and previously underwent stenting for her heart. BNP’s self-exiled acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, 60, expressed gratitude towards supporters for their well wishes, “We express our heartfelt thanks and gratitude for all your prayers and love for the highly respected Begum Khaleda Zia,” Rahman said in a social media post. Also Read: Netanyahu seeks pardon in corruption cases; writes to Israeli President after Trump’s request fails Rehman, who has been living in the UK since 2008, said his return to the home country was not entirely in his control, adding that “like any child,” he longs to be near his mother at this “moment of crisis.” “Unlike others, to make a unilateral decision in this regard is not in my hands alone nor solely within my control. The sensitivity of this matter also limits the scope for detailed explanation,” he wrote. Rahman, the only surviving offspring of Zia, said that he is hopeful “once the current political realities reach the expected stage, my long and anxious wait to return to my homeland will finally come to an end.” Also Read: Should US end H-1B programme? Know what Elon Musk thinks about Indian immigrants In response to his post, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus’ office said the Interim government had no objections regarding his return. “There are no restrictions or objections from the government in this matter,” Yunus’s press secretary, Shafiqul Alam, said. With national elections scheduled for next year, Zia’s health has taken on added political importance. The BNP has re-emerged as a central force in Bangladesh’s shifting political landscape after a student-led uprising toppled Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government on August 5, 2024.

Zia’s only surviving child and the BNP’s acting chief, Tarique Rahman, who has lived in the UK since 2008, said he wants to be with his ailing mother, but cannot decide on his return alone amid the ongoing political turmoil in Bangladesh.

Former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia ‘very critical’; exiled son says he cannot decide his own return

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Sunday kicked off high-stakes talks with a Ukrainian delegation in Florida, as the United States pushes to end Russia's war against its neighbour.&nbsp;"This is not just about peace deals. It's about creating a pathway forward that leaves Ukraine sovereign, independent and prosperous," Rubio said at the start of the meeting.&nbsp;US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner were also attending the meeting.&nbsp;The Ukrainian delegation was led by security council secretary Rustem Umerov.&nbsp;"We are discussing about the future of Ukraine, about the security of Ukraine, about no non-repetition of aggression of Ukraine, about prosperity of Ukraine, about how to rebuild Ukraine," Umerov said as the talks kicked off.&nbsp;In a separate post on the platform X, Umerov said he was in "constant contact" with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as the meeting progressed.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-seeks-pardon-in-corruption-cases-writes-to-israeli-president-after-trump-s-request-fails-gaza-palestine-donald-trump-bibi-modi-1764513740991">Netanyahu seeks pardon in corruption cases; writes to Israeli President after Trump’s request fails</a>&nbsp;"We have clear directives and priorities: safeguarding Ukrainian interests, ensuring substantive dialogue, and advancing on the basis of the progress achieved in Geneva," he wrote on X.&nbsp;"We are working to secure real peace for Ukraine and reliable, long-term security guarantees. The delegation will report to the President of Ukraine following the conclusion of today’s meetings."&nbsp;The Florida talks are expected to build on negotiations a week ago in Geneva between Americans, Ukrainians and Europeans.&nbsp;Washington has put forward a plan to end the more than three-year conflict that it is seeking to finalise with Moscow and Kyiv's approval.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/should-us-end-h-1b-programme-know-what-elon-musk-thinks-about-indian-immigrants-donald-trump-elon-musk-tesla-immigration-indian-immigration-us-1764519420595">Should US end H-1B programme? Know what Elon Musk thinks about Indian immigrants</a>&nbsp;An initial 28-point proposal -- drafted without input from Ukraine's European allies -- would have seen Kyiv withdraw from its eastern Donetsk region and the United States de facto recognise the Donetsk, Crimea and Lugansk regions as Russian.&nbsp;The United States pared back the original draft following criticism from Kyiv and Europe, but the current contents remain unclear.&nbsp;The US talks come amid turbulence for Zelensky and his government -- a blockbuster corruption probe forced him to sack his chief of staff and top negotiator, Andriy Yermak, on Friday.

Trump has put forward a plan to end the more than three-year conflict, which he aims to finalise with the approval of both Moscow and Kyiv.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Sunday kicked off high-stakes talks with a Ukrainian delegation in Florida, as the United States pushes to end Russia's war against its neighbour. "This is not just about peace deals. It's about creating a pathway forward that leaves Ukraine sovereign, independent and prosperous," Rubio said at the start of the meeting. US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner were also attending the meeting. The Ukrainian delegation was led by security council secretary Rustem Umerov. "We are discussing about the future of Ukraine, about the security of Ukraine, about no non-repetition of aggression of Ukraine, about prosperity of Ukraine, about how to rebuild Ukraine," Umerov said as the talks kicked off. In a separate post on the platform X, Umerov said he was in "constant contact" with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as the meeting progressed. Also Read: Netanyahu seeks pardon in corruption cases; writes to Israeli President after Trump’s request fails "We have clear directives and priorities: safeguarding Ukrainian interests, ensuring substantive dialogue, and advancing on the basis of the progress achieved in Geneva," he wrote on X. "We are working to secure real peace for Ukraine and reliable, long-term security guarantees. The delegation will report to the President of Ukraine following the conclusion of today’s meetings." The Florida talks are expected to build on negotiations a week ago in Geneva between Americans, Ukrainians and Europeans. Washington has put forward a plan to end the more than three-year conflict that it is seeking to finalise with Moscow and Kyiv's approval. Also Read: Should US end H-1B programme? Know what Elon Musk thinks about Indian immigrants An initial 28-point proposal -- drafted without input from Ukraine's European allies -- would have seen Kyiv withdraw from its eastern Donetsk region and the United States de facto recognise the Donetsk, Crimea and Lugansk regions as Russian. The United States pared back the original draft following criticism from Kyiv and Europe, but the current contents remain unclear. The US talks come amid turbulence for Zelensky and his government -- a blockbuster corruption probe forced him to sack his chief of staff and top negotiator, Andriy Yermak, on Friday.

Trump has put forward a plan to end the more than three-year conflict, which he aims to finalise with the approval of both Moscow and Kyiv.

Russia–Ukraine war: Zelensky’s team, US officials hold peace talks in Florida

Tesla owner billionaire Elon Musk has said that he is a proponent of free trade and had tried to dissuade President Donald Trump from imposing tariffs but was unsuccessful. Speaking in Zerodha founder Nikhil Kamath’s ‘People by WTF’ podcast, Musk said, “I mean, the President has made it clear he loves tariffs. You know, I’ve tried to dissuade him from this point of view, but unsuccessfully.”&nbsp;“I think generally free trade is better, is more efficient. Tariffs tend to create distortions in markets,” he said, adding that barriers make little sense even at a basic level. “Would you want tariffs between you and everyone else at an individual level? That would make life very difficult. Would you want tariffs between each city? No, that would be very annoying. Would you want tariffs between each state within the United States? That would be disastrous for the economy. So then why do you want tariffs between countries?”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/election-commission-extends-sir-by-7-days-draft-electoral-list-to-be-out-on-dec-16-1764517062722">Election Commission extends SIR by 7 days; draft electoral list to be out on Dec 16</a>&nbsp;In a wide-ranging conversation with Kamath, the Tesla CEO shared his perspectives on various topics, including the H 1B visa system, while also offering a bold prediction about the future of employment.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘My prediction is, in the future, working will be optional’</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;Musk also shared his views on how AI and robotics could reshape work and income over the next two decades. “My prediction is, in the future, working will be optional. They don’t have to. I mean, look, obviously, people can play this back in 20 years and say, ‘Look, Elon made this ridiculous prediction and it’s not true.’ But I think it will turn out to be true that, in less than 20 years, but maybe even as little as, I don’t know, ten or 15 years, the advancements in AI and robotics will bring us to the point where working is optional,” said Musk and compared future work choices to gardening as a hobby rather than a necessity.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-politics-now-trumps-economics-says-jaishankar-stresses-on-supply-chain-diversification-1764442632789">‘Politics now ‘trumps’ economics,’ says Jaishankar, stresses on supply chain diversification</a>&nbsp;“In the same way that, like, say, you can grow your own vegetables in your garden or you could go to the store and buy vegetables. You know. It’s much harder to grow your own vegetables. But some people like to grow their vegetables, which is fine. But it’ll be optional, in that way, is my prediction,” said Musk.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I’m confident that if AI and robotics continue to advance, which they are advancing very rapidly, like I said, working will be optional, and people will have any goods and services that they want. ‘If you can think of it, you can have it’ type of thing,” said Musk.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-launches-website-to-expose-misleading-biased-coverage-of-trump-admin-1764447383766">White House launches website to ‘expose’ ‘misleading, biased’ coverage of Trump admin</a><h2>‘Support high-skilled immigration, but…’</h2>&nbsp;Musk also said that he supports high-skilled immigration but believes parts of the H 1B visa system programme have been distorted. “I think there’s been some misuse of the H 1B Program. It would be accurate to say that some of the outsourcing companies have kind of gamed the system on the H 1B front, and we need to stop the gaming of the system,” he said.“But, I’m not, I’m certainly not in the school of thought that we should shut down the H-1B program. That’s which some on the right are. I think they don’t realise that that would actually be very bad.”

Sharing his views on how AI and robotics could reshape work and income over the next two decades, Musk said he believes that working will be optional in future and compared future work choices to gardening as a hobby rather than a necessity.

Tesla owner billionaire Elon Musk has said that he is a proponent of free trade and had tried to dissuade President Donald Trump from imposing tariffs but was unsuccessful. Speaking in Zerodha founder Nikhil Kamath’s ‘People by WTF’ podcast, Musk said, “I mean, the President has made it clear he loves tariffs. You know, I’ve tried to dissuade him from this point of view, but unsuccessfully.” “I think generally free trade is better, is more efficient. Tariffs tend to create distortions in markets,” he said, adding that barriers make little sense even at a basic level. “Would you want tariffs between you and everyone else at an individual level? That would make life very difficult. Would you want tariffs between each city? No, that would be very annoying. Would you want tariffs between each state within the United States? That would be disastrous for the economy. So then why do you want tariffs between countries?” Also Read: Election Commission extends SIR by 7 days; draft electoral list to be out on Dec 16 In a wide-ranging conversation with Kamath, the Tesla CEO shared his perspectives on various topics, including the H 1B visa system, while also offering a bold prediction about the future of employment. ‘My prediction is, in the future, working will be optional’ Musk also shared his views on how AI and robotics could reshape work and income over the next two decades. “My prediction is, in the future, working will be optional. They don’t have to. I mean, look, obviously, people can play this back in 20 years and say, ‘Look, Elon made this ridiculous prediction and it’s not true.’ But I think it will turn out to be true that, in less than 20 years, but maybe even as little as, I don’t know, ten or 15 years, the advancements in AI and robotics will bring us to the point where working is optional,” said Musk and compared future work choices to gardening as a hobby rather than a necessity. Also Read: ‘Politics now ‘trumps’ economics,’ says Jaishankar, stresses on supply chain diversification “In the same way that, like, say, you can grow your own vegetables in your garden or you could go to the store and buy vegetables. You know. It’s much harder to grow your own vegetables. But some people like to grow their vegetables, which is fine. But it’ll be optional, in that way, is my prediction,” said Musk. “I’m confident that if AI and robotics continue to advance, which they are advancing very rapidly, like I said, working will be optional, and people will have any goods and services that they want. ‘If you can think of it, you can have it’ type of thing,” said Musk. Also Read: White House launches website to ‘expose’ ‘misleading, biased’ coverage of Trump admin ‘Support high-skilled immigration, but…’ Musk also said that he supports high-skilled immigration but believes parts of the H 1B visa system programme have been distorted. “I think there’s been some misuse of the H 1B Program. It would be accurate to say that some of the outsourcing companies have kind of gamed the system on the H 1B front, and we need to stop the gaming of the system,” he said. “But, I’m not, I’m certainly not in the school of thought that we should shut down the H-1B program. That’s which some on the right are. I think they don’t realise that that would actually be very bad.”

Sharing his views on how AI and robotics could reshape work and income over the next two decades, Musk said he believes that working will be optional in the future and compared future work choices to gardening as a hobby rather than a necessity.&nbsp;

‘Tried to dissuade him, but unsuccessfully’: Elon Musk on Trump’s tariff policy

Elon Musk said that shutting down the H1-B programme will be detrimental to America's technological advancement and that the US has benefited immensely from Indian talent. Speaking on the "WTF is" podcast hosted by online trading platform Zerodha's co-founder Nikhil Kamat. The Billionaire also defended President Donald Trump's anti immigration stance, saying that the policy stems from the "misuse" of H1-B visas. “Yes, I think America has benefitted immensely from talented Indians who have come to America, Musk said in reply to Kamath's assertion that the US for decades attracted "really smart people" from around the world. However, it has become anti immigration to a certain extent in the recent past. &nbsp;&nbsp;The Tesla CEO also dismissed demands of conservative groups calling for quashing the H1-B system completely, “I’m not in the school of thought that we should shut down the H-1B Program… that would actually be very bad, ”he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/america-lacks-workers-for-tough-jobs-says-elon-musk-amid-h1b-visa-row-1763395508112">America lacks workers for tough jobs, says Elon Musk amid H1B visa row</a>&nbsp;These remarks come amid the ongoing crackdown on immigration by the Trump administration, the US &nbsp;President imposed stricter conditions on the H1B visa programme, making it difficult for job seekers to enter the United States. Beginning September 1, US employers seeking to hire foreign professionals in specialised occupations have to pay $1 lakh supplemental fee for new workers.&nbsp;Commenting on the concerns of some Americans about Immigrants taking their jobs, the Tesla CEO said, “I don't know how real that is. My direct observation is that there's always a scarcity of talented people. So you know, from my standpoint, I'm like we have a lot of difficulty finding enough talented people to get these difficult tasks done, and so more talented people would be good.”<h2>You are not a country without borders</h2>The tech mogul, however, sharply criticised the Joe Biden administration for border polices, saying they lacked control and had a free-for-all approach to border controls.&nbsp;"Under the Biden administration, it was basically a total free-for-all with no border controls. You know, unless you've got border controls, you're not a country. So, you had massive amounts of illegal immigration under Biden".&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vodka-with-patriotic-flavour-trump-family-unveils-new-liquor-brand-while-us-president-says-he-doesn-t-drink-eric-trump-alchol-brand-trump-faimly-1764413091614">Vodka with patriotic flavour: Trump family unveils new liquor brand while US president says he doesn’t drink</a>&nbsp;"It actually had somewhat of a negative selection effect. So if there's a massive financial incentive to come to the US illegally and get all these government benefits, then you are going to necessarily create a diffusion gradient for people to come to the US. It's an incentive structure. And that obviously made no sense. Like, you got to have border controls. It's kind of ridiculous not to," the X owner added. &nbsp;

 Musk said that America has benefited immensely from Indian talent, adding that scrapping the H-1B scheme completely would be “very bad.”

Elon Musk said that shutting down the H1-B programme will be detrimental to America's technological advancement and that the US has benefited immensely from Indian talent. Speaking on the "WTF is" podcast hosted by online trading platform Zerodha's co-founder Nikhil Kamat. The Billionaire also defended President Donald Trump's anti immigration stance, saying that the policy stems from the "misuse" of H1-B visas. “Yes, I think America has benefitted immensely from talented Indians who have come to America, Musk said in reply to Kamath's assertion that the US for decades attracted "really smart people" from around the world. However, it has become anti immigration to a certain extent in the recent past. The Tesla CEO also dismissed demands of conservative groups calling for quashing the H1-B system completely, “I’m not in the school of thought that we should shut down the H-1B Program… that would actually be very bad, ”he said. Also Read: America lacks workers for tough jobs, says Elon Musk amid H1B visa row These remarks come amid the ongoing crackdown on immigration by the Trump administration, the US President imposed stricter conditions on the H1B visa programme, making it difficult for job seekers to enter the United States. Beginning September 1, US employers seeking to hire foreign professionals in specialised occupations have to pay $1 lakh supplemental fee for new workers. Commenting on the concerns of some Americans about Immigrants taking their jobs, the Tesla CEO said, “I don't know how real that is. My direct observation is that there's always a scarcity of talented people. So you know, from my standpoint, I'm like we have a lot of difficulty finding enough talented people to get these difficult tasks done, and so more talented people would be good.” You are not a country without borders The tech mogul, however, sharply criticised the Joe Biden administration for border polices, saying they lacked control and had a free-for-all approach to border controls. "Under the Biden administration, it was basically a total free-for-all with no border controls. You know, unless you've got border controls, you're not a country. So, you had massive amounts of illegal immigration under Biden". Also Read: Vodka with patriotic flavour: Trump family unveils new liquor brand while US president says he doesn’t drink "It actually had somewhat of a negative selection effect. So if there's a massive financial incentive to come to the US illegally and get all these government benefits, then you are going to necessarily create a diffusion gradient for people to come to the US. It's an incentive structure. And that obviously made no sense. Like, you got to have border controls. It's kind of ridiculous not to," the X owner added.

&nbsp;Musk said that America has benefited immensely from Indian talent, adding that scrapping the H-1B scheme completely would be “very bad.”

Should US end H-1B programme? Know what Elon Musk thinks about Indian immigrants

Thailand’s Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow has described bilateral relations with India as “excellent” and “robust”, with both countries determined to expand cooperation in trade, defence and tackling transnational cyber-scams. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, the minister highlighted the growing menace of cross-border online scam syndicates operating along Thailand’s borders with Myanmar and Cambodia. He revealed that Bangkok recently repatriated around 1,000 Indian victims and announced an international conference on 17 December in Bangkok to galvanise global action. “This is a grave threat to all of us… We must demonstrate political will and mobilise international efforts,” he said, calling for greater intelligence-sharing to dismantle criminal networks.&nbsp;On the economic front, FM Sihasak expressed confidence that the $30 billion bilateral trade target by 2030 is achievable, citing India’s rapid growth and opportunities in food security, health, wellness and green technology. He urged India to reconsider joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and stressed the need for upgraded connectivity projects, including the stalled India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway.&nbsp;Defence ties are also deepening, with Thailand already procuring Indian armoured vehicles and munitions, and both navies conducting joint exercises to ensure maritime security in the wider Indo-Pacific region. The minister underlined shared Buddhist heritage and booming Indian tourism, with over two million visitors annually, as enduring pillars of the relationship. Full interview<h2>Your Excellency, how would you characterise the current state of India-Thailand relations?</h2>The relationship is excellent, and I think it's going forward with opportunities for closer cooperation in many areas. We have a strategic partnership. A strategic partnership means that it's not just the bilateral issues, bilateral relations, but we're working together to promote regional peace and stability and prosperity, also working together to address common global challenges like climate change, pandemics, human trafficking, and so many other issues. So it's a very robust relationship, and I see there's a lot of potential for cooperation and partnership going forward.<h2>On the issue of cross-border online scam syndicates, Thailand has helped repatriate many Indian victims; what has been Thailand’s role and what remains the biggest concern regarding these cyber-scam centres?</h2> Well, it's not just a problem for any particular country. It's become a problem with regional and international dimensions, and we see you know these scam operations operating along the Thai-Myanmar border, along the Thai Cambodian border, and this particular regard to Myanmar, it is due to the instability in the country. Unfortunately, we have people who have been lured into working for these operations, some of course, knowingly, have gone there in the hope of making money. But, these operations are a grave threat to all of us. People are being robbed of their life savings by this scam and scammers, so we really have to do something about it.&nbsp;&nbsp;Thailand believes that it's time that we demonstrate the political will, and mobilise international efforts to deal with this problem. We are hosting a major international conference on the 17th of December in Bangkok. So we hope that at that meeting, we can discuss this at the highest level, and hopefully, we can work on what we can. We must ensure that these frameworks and processes are consolidated and work together. So this is what we're hoping for. But the point is that we have victims from many countries. Indians are among the victims. We have a large number of them. We just helped recently with the repatriation of about 1000 Indians back to where they came from in India.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-air-force-evacuates-over-50-people-from-flood-hit-sri-lanka-including-pakistani-and-bangladeshi-nationals-1764509596752">Indian Air Force evacuates over 50 people from flood-hit Sri Lanka, including Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals</a>&nbsp;<h2>What kind of conversations have both sides had on this particular issue? We know that the Indian ambassador has met you on this particular issue, and also perhaps you've invited India to the upcoming meeting which you're going to host.</h2>Immediate concern is to provide assistance to help them return to wherever they came from. But also, we need information on who the perpetrators are. What kind of networks have they been able to utilise? So what is important is that we should have more information sharing, sharing of intelligence, so that we really can get to the bottom of all this.<h2>And who do you think is the perpetrator in this particular case, any group which you are worried about?</h2> Well, I don't want to assign any particular nationality, because these are criminals. And we have criminals in every country, and so criminals are working together to make these scams and scam operations possible.<h2>How do Thailand, India plan to increase their trade at a time when we have seen changes when it comes to global trading arrangements?</h2> Well, we first have to do more bilaterally. Bilateral means having more exchange visits between the private sector. We also have to work together to see where the impediments are, and then we have to work together in terms of promotional activities. I see enormous potential in trading relationships; in our economic ties, we just have to work harder at it. But having said that, not just working bilaterally right now, we should also work to promote regional free trade at a time when the multilateral trading system is being challenged. You know what these challenges are: challenges of unilateralism, protectionism, and unilateral tariffs. Thailand and India should not just be working bilaterally for more trade, more investment, but also we should be working at the regional level to ensure that trade remains free.&nbsp;&nbsp;There are many ways that we can work together regionally. There's the India ASEAN Free Trade Agreement. Let's see what we can do to upgrade it. We also have the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, RCEP. India took part in negotiations throughout, but at the end, decided to opt out. We don't question India's intention. Of course, it's a decision for India to make. We do hope that India will join RCEP, because it's something that will benefit the region and definitely benefit India. We understand the concern of India, but still, India is such an important economic powerhouse in the region, and so there is much that we can do bilaterally, a lot that we can do regionally, at a time when we're facing the common challenge of the decline of the multilateral trading system under the WTO.<h2>Plans to have the trade to $30 billion by 2030, I believe. Are you hopeful that India and Thailand will be able to achieve that?</h2> Given the growth of India, the economic growth rate of India, and the size of your economy, I think we can achieve that goal. Again, let's look at where the impediments are, and where the opportunities are for us to trade more. &nbsp;I see that the target that we have set is not beyond reach, but trade is only part of the economic relations. I'd like to see more investment. Investment also helps to create more trade between our two countries. Thailand has an economy that is in transition. We want to go towards more innovation, more digitalisation, and a greener economy.&nbsp;&nbsp;There are many areas where we can work together, such as, first is Thailand wants to be a food hub, and this is where there's a tremendous demand for food products. So maybe we can work together in this area. Another area where Thailand and India can work together is in the health and wellness. Thailand has some of the best hospitals in the world. You are very strong in the pharmaceutical industry, why not look at opportunities for closer collaboration? Connectivity is also another area. There is much more that we can do in terms of connectivity, and connectivity will enhance trade.<h2>Any update on the India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway?</h2> The segment in Thailand is completed. We have financed a certain segment within Myanmar. India's part has been done. India is helping also to finance part of this segment in Myanmar, but the project has been stalled because we know why, because of the situation. So that's why we're hoping that the situation will return to normalcy soon, and so that we can continue to work on the trilateral highway project, so that it can be completed. And another project is the coastal shipping project, connecting the various main ports along the course from Thailand to Myanmar to Bangladesh to India.<h2>Moving forward to the defence relationship, what's your view on that?</h2>The defence cooperation helps us to ensure that we are prepared in terms of defence, and we also look to India as a source of defence supplies, of defence equipment, weapons, and also these joint exercises, whether it's between our armed forces, our naval forces. I think it serves to enhance our preparedness in terms of defence and security. Another area is maritime security; we share a common interest in ensuring that the sea lanes of communication and transport and commerce, connecting the Pacific Ocean with the Indian Ocean, are kept free and open.<h2>Any specific assets you are looking to import from India?</h2>Well, we always think in terms of efficiency, effectiveness and cost. Up to now, I think the weapons that we have purchased from India, mainly military vehicles, armoured vehicles, and maybe some munitions.<h2>Where do you see the future of the India-Thailand tourism relationship?&nbsp;</h2>Well, tourism is a very important sector of the Thai economy. The Thai economy is driven by two important sectors, the trade exports in particular, and also tourism. India has been an important source of tourism for Thailand. We have over 2 million tourists from India coming to enjoy the various sites in Thailand each year, and we are very happy that the number is growing. And I'm always amazed by the size of the Indian weddings held in Thailand. You know, it's not just the bride and bridegroom. You have the whole family, not from one side, but both sides, coming to celebrate Thailand, and so we hope that there'll be more of this kind of tourism in addition to the regular tourism that we have from India.<h2>How do you see India's Act East Policy working in terms of India's growing engagement with ASEAN countries, especially Thailand?&nbsp;</h2> Well, it was "Look east". Now it's "Act East". And for us, it is "Act West" before we "Look West". So we have to act in terms of concrete actions on what to do. And again, it's not just bilaterally. First of all, we welcome the engagement of India, economically, strategically in the ASEAN region, and India is a very important dialogue partner. There is another framework that brings about the convergence of India's Look East policy and Thailand's Look West policy, which is BIMSTEC. And with regard to BIMSTEC, it has a lot of potential, but we still have a long way to go. So I think that Thailand and India should be working together more under our respective Act East and Thailand's act West policy.<h2>How hopeful are you about BIMSTEC?</h2>Well, to be very frank, I think we have to really try to quicken the pace, broaden the cooperation, and also make sure that real progress is achieved. I think BIMSTEC has not realised its potential yet. I think South Asia is getting its act together, and Southeast Asia, I think, we remain one of the highest growth areas in the world. And actually, BIMSTEC is not just about the member countries alone. It's about linking South and Southeast Asia. So we really have to do much more. There's been a lot that we've agreed to, such as we have a master plan on connectivity, we have to do more in terms of connectivity, rail, air, land, sea, and also promoting free trade.<h2>One element that combines tourism and connectivity is digital connectivity, the connectivity between India's UBI and Thailand's Prompt Pay. Can we see a day when an Indian tourist, or perhaps a Thai tourist, comes to India and uses their QR code to pay?</h2> Yes, I say that. I hope it will be done very quickly, because, you know, digital payment is going to really promote economic ties and help tourism, and Thailand is already doing that, with countries like Singapore.<h2>Buddhism connect between the two countries. How important is it to both countries?</h2> Yes, I think tourism is one of the pillars of our relationship, the fact that we share so much in common in terms of religion and many Thais come to India for religious pilgrimage. We appreciate that you have kindly offered the relics of the Lord Buddha to allow the people in Thailand be able to show their respect. That is very much appreciated. So Buddhism will be at the core of our relationship. It will remain an important pillar of ties.<h2>The conflict we saw with Cambodia, if you can perhaps brief to the Indian viewers, about the reason for the conflict, and also what is the current status as well, especially after the mediation, which we saw by the US President Donald Trump</h2>Well, it has to do with the border. Borders that have not been clearly demarcated. It has to do with the existence of mines along the border. It has to do with the spread of these illegal crimes, the scam operations. It has to do with encroachment into other territories. And, you know, relations with neighbouring countries, there's a lot of potential, but there always will be problems, and we have to resolve them peacefully, bilaterally. And I guess the issue for us is that sometimes the Cambodians prefer to take many of these bilateral issues internationally, and so we really believe that our two countries should sit down and try to work things out bilaterally. Some of the recent incidents have not helped. They planted a lot of mines along the border. They say that these are old mines, but clearly the evidence proves that they are new mines, and our soldiers have been severely injured by these land mines despite both sides agreeing to do the de-mining.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-and-uk-armies-deepen-ties-as-ajeya-warrior-25-ends-in-rajasthan-1764515748237">India and UK armies deepen ties as Ajeya Warrior-25 ends in Rajasthan</a><h2>But is the ceasefire, which was mediated by the US president, holding or has it been violated?</h2> Right now, it's holding. We don't have any clashes, but when you talk about a ceasefire, it includes the issue of landmines, and the landmines, you know, it's been breached by the Cambodians because they've planted new mines, and these new mines have injured Thai soldiers.<h2>And when you meet with your counterpart, the Indian External Affairs Minister, tomorrow, all these issues will be discussed. Any particular focus area?</h2>We will try to discuss all the issues that we consider to be important, bilaterally, regionally, and internationally. One issue we have to discuss, this issue of the situation in Myanmar, because both of our countries share a common border with Myanmar, and we're concerned about instability in Myanmar. We want to see peace, stability and unity return to the country. &nbsp;Both countries, as neighbouring countries, together with other neighbouring countries, China, Bangladesh and ASEAN, the ASEAN countries, we have to work more closely. We have to align our efforts to ensure that our efforts are going in the same direction towards peace and stability in Myanmar.

Thai FM Sihasak expressed confidence that the $30 billion bilateral trade target by 2030 is achievable, citing India’s rapid growth and opportunities in food security, health, wellness and green technology. He urged India to reconsider joining the RCEP.

Thailand’s Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow has described bilateral relations with India as “excellent” and “robust”, with both countries determined to expand cooperation in trade, defence and tackling transnational cyber-scams. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, the minister highlighted the growing menace of cross-border online scam syndicates operating along Thailand’s borders with Myanmar and Cambodia. He revealed that Bangkok recently repatriated around 1,000 Indian victims and announced an international conference on 17 December in Bangkok to galvanise global action. “This is a grave threat to all of us… We must demonstrate political will and mobilise international efforts,” he said, calling for greater intelligence-sharing to dismantle criminal networks. On the economic front, FM Sihasak expressed confidence that the $30 billion bilateral trade target by 2030 is achievable, citing India’s rapid growth and opportunities in food security, health, wellness and green technology. He urged India to reconsider joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and stressed the need for upgraded connectivity projects, including the stalled India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway. Defence ties are also deepening, with Thailand already procuring Indian armoured vehicles and munitions, and both navies conducting joint exercises to ensure maritime security in the wider Indo-Pacific region. The minister underlined shared Buddhist heritage and booming Indian tourism, with over two million visitors annually, as enduring pillars of the relationship. Full interview Your Excellency, how would you characterise the current state of India-Thailand relations? The relationship is excellent, and I think it's going forward with opportunities for closer cooperation in many areas. We have a strategic partnership. A strategic partnership means that it's not just the bilateral issues, bilateral relations, but we're working together to promote regional peace and stability and prosperity, also working together to address common global challenges like climate change, pandemics, human trafficking, and so many other issues. So it's a very robust relationship, and I see there's a lot of potential for cooperation and partnership going forward. On the issue of cross-border online scam syndicates, Thailand has helped repatriate many Indian victims; what has been Thailand’s role and what remains the biggest concern regarding these cyber-scam centres? Well, it's not just a problem for any particular country. It's become a problem with regional and international dimensions, and we see you know these scam operations operating along the Thai-Myanmar border, along the Thai Cambodian border, and this particular regard to Myanmar, it is due to the instability in the country. Unfortunately, we have people who have been lured into working for these operations, some of course, knowingly, have gone there in the hope of making money. But, these operations are a grave threat to all of us. People are being robbed of their life savings by this scam and scammers, so we really have to do something about it. Thailand believes that it's time that we demonstrate the political will, and mobilise international efforts to deal with this problem. We are hosting a major international conference on the 17th of December in Bangkok. So we hope that at that meeting, we can discuss this at the highest level, and hopefully, we can work on what we can. We must ensure that these frameworks and processes are consolidated and work together. So this is what we're hoping for. But the point is that we have victims from many countries. Indians are among the victims. We have a large number of them. We just helped recently with the repatriation of about 1000 Indians back to where they came from in India. Also Read: Indian Air Force evacuates over 50 people from flood-hit Sri Lanka, including Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals What kind of conversations have both sides had on this particular issue? We know that the Indian ambassador has met you on this particular issue, and also perhaps you've invited India to the upcoming meeting which you're going to host. Immediate concern is to provide assistance to help them return to wherever they came from. But also, we need information on who the perpetrators are. What kind of networks have they been able to utilise? So what is important is that we should have more information sharing, sharing of intelligence, so that we really can get to the bottom of all this. And who do you think is the perpetrator in this particular case, any group which you are worried about? Well, I don't want to assign any particular nationality, because these are criminals. And we have criminals in every country, and so criminals are working together to make these scams and scam operations possible. How do Thailand, India plan to increase their trade at a time when we have seen changes when it comes to global trading arrangements? Well, we first have to do more bilaterally. Bilateral means having more exchange visits between the private sector. We also have to work together to see where the impediments are, and then we have to work together in terms of promotional activities. I see enormous potential in trading relationships; in our economic ties, we just have to work harder at it. But having said that, not just working bilaterally right now, we should also work to promote regional free trade at a time when the multilateral trading system is being challenged. You know what these challenges are: challenges of unilateralism, protectionism, and unilateral tariffs. Thailand and India should not just be working bilaterally for more trade, more investment, but also we should be working at the regional level to ensure that trade remains free. There are many ways that we can work together regionally. There's the India ASEAN Free Trade Agreement. Let's see what we can do to upgrade it. We also have the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, RCEP. India took part in negotiations throughout, but at the end, decided to opt out. We don't question India's intention. Of course, it's a decision for India to make. We do hope that India will join RCEP, because it's something that will benefit the region and definitely benefit India. We understand the concern of India, but still, India is such an important economic powerhouse in the region, and so there is much that we can do bilaterally, a lot that we can do regionally, at a time when we're facing the common challenge of the decline of the multilateral trading system under the WTO. Plans to have the trade to $30 billion by 2030, I believe. Are you hopeful that India and Thailand will be able to achieve that? Given the growth of India, the economic growth rate of India, and the size of your economy, I think we can achieve that goal. Again, let's look at where the impediments are, and where the opportunities are for us to trade more. I see that the target that we have set is not beyond reach, but trade is only part of the economic relations. I'd like to see more investment. Investment also helps to create more trade between our two countries. Thailand has an economy that is in transition. We want to go towards more innovation, more digitalisation, and a greener economy. There are many areas where we can work together, such as, first is Thailand wants to be a food hub, and this is where there's a tremendous demand for food products. So maybe we can work together in this area. Another area where Thailand and India can work together is in the health and wellness. Thailand has some of the best hospitals in the world. You are very strong in the pharmaceutical industry, why not look at opportunities for closer collaboration? Connectivity is also another area. There is much more that we can do in terms of connectivity, and connectivity will enhance trade. Any update on the India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway? The segment in Thailand is completed. We have financed a certain segment within Myanmar. India's part has been done. India is helping also to finance part of this segment in Myanmar, but the project has been stalled because we know why, because of the situation. So that's why we're hoping that the situation will return to normalcy soon, and so that we can continue to work on the trilateral highway project, so that it can be completed. And another project is the coastal shipping project, connecting the various main ports along the course from Thailand to Myanmar to Bangladesh to India. Moving forward to the defence relationship, what's your view on that? The defence cooperation helps us to ensure that we are prepared in terms of defence, and we also look to India as a source of defence supplies, of defence equipment, weapons, and also these joint exercises, whether it's between our armed forces, our naval forces. I think it serves to enhance our preparedness in terms of defence and security. Another area is maritime security; we share a common interest in ensuring that the sea lanes of communication and transport and commerce, connecting the Pacific Ocean with the Indian Ocean, are kept free and open. Any specific assets you are looking to import from India? Well, we always think in terms of efficiency, effectiveness and cost. Up to now, I think the weapons that we have purchased from India, mainly military vehicles, armoured vehicles, and maybe some munitions. Where do you see the future of the India-Thailand tourism relationship? Well, tourism is a very important sector of the Thai economy. The Thai economy is driven by two important sectors, the trade exports in particular, and also tourism. India has been an important source of tourism for Thailand. We have over 2 million tourists from India coming to enjoy the various sites in Thailand each year, and we are very happy that the number is growing. And I'm always amazed by the size of the Indian weddings held in Thailand. You know, it's not just the bride and bridegroom. You have the whole family, not from one side, but both sides, coming to celebrate Thailand, and so we hope that there'll be more of this kind of tourism in addition to the regular tourism that we have from India. How do you see India's Act East Policy working in terms of India's growing engagement with ASEAN countries, especially Thailand? Well, it was "Look east". Now it's "Act East". And for us, it is "Act West" before we "Look West". So we have to act in terms of concrete actions on what to do. And again, it's not just bilaterally. First of all, we welcome the engagement of India, economically, strategically in the ASEAN region, and India is a very important dialogue partner. There is another framework that brings about the convergence of India's Look East policy and Thailand's Look West policy, which is BIMSTEC. And with regard to BIMSTEC, it has a lot of potential, but we still have a long way to go. So I think that Thailand and India should be working together more under our respective Act East and Thailand's act West policy. How hopeful are you about BIMSTEC? Well, to be very frank, I think we have to really try to quicken the pace, broaden the cooperation, and also make sure that real progress is achieved. I think BIMSTEC has not realised its potential yet. I think South Asia is getting its act together, and Southeast Asia, I think, we remain one of the highest growth areas in the world. And actually, BIMSTEC is not just about the member countries alone. It's about linking South and Southeast Asia. So we really have to do much more. There's been a lot that we've agreed to, such as we have a master plan on connectivity, we have to do more in terms of connectivity, rail, air, land, sea, and also promoting free trade. One element that combines tourism and connectivity is digital connectivity, the connectivity between India's UBI and Thailand's Prompt Pay. Can we see a day when an Indian tourist, or perhaps a Thai tourist, comes to India and uses their QR code to pay? Yes, I say that. I hope it will be done very quickly, because, you know, digital payment is going to really promote economic ties and help tourism, and Thailand is already doing that, with countries like Singapore. Buddhism connect between the two countries. How important is it to both countries? Yes, I think tourism is one of the pillars of our relationship, the fact that we share so much in common in terms of religion and many Thais come to India for religious pilgrimage. We appreciate that you have kindly offered the relics of the Lord Buddha to allow the people in Thailand be able to show their respect. That is very much appreciated. So Buddhism will be at the core of our relationship. It will remain an important pillar of ties. The conflict we saw with Cambodia, if you can perhaps brief to the Indian viewers, about the reason for the conflict, and also what is the current status as well, especially after the mediation, which we saw by the US President Donald Trump Well, it has to do with the border. Borders that have not been clearly demarcated. It has to do with the existence of mines along the border. It has to do with the spread of these illegal crimes, the scam operations. It has to do with encroachment into other territories. And, you know, relations with neighbouring countries, there's a lot of potential, but there always will be problems, and we have to resolve them peacefully, bilaterally. And I guess the issue for us is that sometimes the Cambodians prefer to take many of these bilateral issues internationally, and so we really believe that our two countries should sit down and try to work things out bilaterally. Some of the recent incidents have not helped. They planted a lot of mines along the border. They say that these are old mines, but clearly the evidence proves that they are new mines, and our soldiers have been severely injured by these land mines despite both sides agreeing to do the de-mining. Also Read: India and UK armies deepen ties as Ajeya Warrior-25 ends in Rajasthan But is the ceasefire, which was mediated by the US president, holding or has it been violated? Right now, it's holding. We don't have any clashes, but when you talk about a ceasefire, it includes the issue of landmines, and the landmines, you know, it's been breached by the Cambodians because they've planted new mines, and these new mines have injured Thai soldiers. And when you meet with your counterpart, the Indian External Affairs Minister, tomorrow, all these issues will be discussed. Any particular focus area? We will try to discuss all the issues that we consider to be important, bilaterally, regionally, and internationally. One issue we have to discuss, this issue of the situation in Myanmar, because both of our countries share a common border with Myanmar, and we're concerned about instability in Myanmar. We want to see peace, stability and unity return to the country. Both countries, as neighbouring countries, together with other neighbouring countries, China, Bangladesh and ASEAN, the ASEAN countries, we have to work more closely. We have to align our efforts to ensure that our efforts are going in the same direction towards peace and stability in Myanmar.

Thai FM Sihasak expressed confidence that the $30 billion bilateral trade target by 2030 is achievable, citing India’s rapid growth and opportunities in food security, health, wellness and green technology. He urged India to reconsider joining the RCEP.

India is an ‘important economic powerhouse’, says Thai FM amid deepening defence ties and cross-border cyber-scam crackdown

New Delhi: The United Kingdom and India have concluded the eighth edition of their flagship army exercise Ajeya Warrior, with senior officials on both sides presenting the event as evidence of a rapidly deepening defence partnership. Held at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan from 17 to 30 November, the exercise brought together 120 soldiers from the Indian Army’s 21st Battalion The Sikh Regiment and an equal number from A (Amboor) Company, 2nd Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles. The two contingents operated under a fully integrated battle-group headquarters during the final validation phase, conducting complex counter-terrorism and peace-enforcement operations under a simulated Chapter VII UN mandate, that gives the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) the authority to take enforcement action.&nbsp;The Indian Ministry of Defence stated, “‘AJEYA WARRIOR-25’ reinforced the strong defence cooperation between India and the United Kingdom and reaffirmed the shared commitment of both nations to global peace and security.” British High Commissioner Lindy Cameron directly tied the exercise to long-term strategic goals. “Defence and security forms a crucial pillar of UK-India Vision 2035,” she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Exercise Ajeya Warrior is a demonstration of UK’s deepening defence ties with India as we deliver this shared vision over the next decade. Beyond military cooperation, it underscores our shared commitment to peace, stability and a rules-based international order.”&nbsp;Commodore Chris Saunders MBE, UK Defence Adviser in New Delhi, emphasised operational convergence and regional implications. “Ex Ajeya Warrior follows closely on the back of our Navies training together during the recent visit by the UK’s Carrier Strike Group and demonstrates the ever-closer relationship and readiness of both our militaries to face shared security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region,” he said. “We now greatly look forward to welcoming the Indian Army to the UK for Ex Ajeya Warrior IX in 2027.”&nbsp;Officials describe these exchanges, combined with increasingly complex joint exercises, as tangible steps toward genuine military interoperability between two countries. The exercise follows as India and the UK agreed on a 10-year Defence Industrial Roadmap designed to enable joint development and co-production of military equipment. It also comes months after the UK Carrier Strike Group conducted advanced bilateral manoeuvres with Indian naval forces. Indian officers already serve as instructors at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and Britannia Royal Naval College.

Officials describe these exchanges, combined with increasingly complex joint exercises, as tangible steps toward military interoperability between the two nations after both agreed to a 10-year Defence Industrial Roadmap to enable joint development and co-production of military equipment.

New Delhi: The United Kingdom and India have concluded the eighth edition of their flagship army exercise Ajeya Warrior, with senior officials on both sides presenting the event as evidence of a rapidly deepening defence partnership. Held at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan from 17 to 30 November, the exercise brought together 120 soldiers from the Indian Army’s 21st Battalion The Sikh Regiment and an equal number from A (Amboor) Company, 2nd Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles. The two contingents operated under a fully integrated battle-group headquarters during the final validation phase, conducting complex counter-terrorism and peace-enforcement operations under a simulated Chapter VII UN mandate, that gives the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) the authority to take enforcement action. The Indian Ministry of Defence stated, “‘AJEYA WARRIOR-25’ reinforced the strong defence cooperation between India and the United Kingdom and reaffirmed the shared commitment of both nations to global peace and security.” British High Commissioner Lindy Cameron directly tied the exercise to long-term strategic goals. “Defence and security forms a crucial pillar of UK-India Vision 2035,” she said. “Exercise Ajeya Warrior is a demonstration of UK’s deepening defence ties with India as we deliver this shared vision over the next decade. Beyond military cooperation, it underscores our shared commitment to peace, stability and a rules-based international order.” Commodore Chris Saunders MBE, UK Defence Adviser in New Delhi, emphasised operational convergence and regional implications. “Ex Ajeya Warrior follows closely on the back of our Navies training together during the recent visit by the UK’s Carrier Strike Group and demonstrates the ever-closer relationship and readiness of both our militaries to face shared security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region,” he said. “We now greatly look forward to welcoming the Indian Army to the UK for Ex Ajeya Warrior IX in 2027.” Officials describe these exchanges, combined with increasingly complex joint exercises, as tangible steps toward genuine military interoperability between two countries. The exercise follows as India and the UK agreed on a 10-year Defence Industrial Roadmap designed to enable joint development and co-production of military equipment. It also comes months after the UK Carrier Strike Group conducted advanced bilateral manoeuvres with Indian naval forces. Indian officers already serve as instructors at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and Britannia Royal Naval College.

Officials describe these exchanges, combined with increasingly complex joint exercises, as tangible steps toward military interoperability between the two nations after both agreed to a 10-year Defence Industrial Roadmap to enable joint development and co-production of military equipment.

India and UK armies deepen ties as Ajeya Warrior-25 ends in Rajasthan

Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Nov 30) &nbsp;has submitted a formal pardon request to President Issac Herzog, saying that long-running cases were tearing the country apart. The Israeli Prime Minister is facing three separate cases of corruption filed against him in 2019, including allegations of bribery, fraud and breach of trust. He repeatedly denied wrongdoing in the ongoing court cases.&nbsp;"The trial in my case has been ongoing for nearly six years, and is expected to continue for many more years," Netanyahu said in a video statement, adding that "The continuation of the trial is tearing us apart from within, arousing fierce divisions, intensifying rifts."&nbsp;Netanyahu stated that he wanted to get acquitted after facing the full trial, "but the security and political reality, the national interest, &nbsp;dictate otherwise. The State of Israel is facing enormous challenges".&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-air-force-evacuates-over-50-people-from-flood-hit-sri-lanka-including-pakistani-and-bangladeshi-nationals-1764509596752">Indian Air Force evacuates over 50 people from flood-hit Sri Lanka, including Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals</a>&nbsp;Confirming the Prime Minister's submission, Herzog's office said, “The Office of the President is aware that this is an extraordinary request which carries with it significant implications. After receiving all of the relevant opinions, the president will responsibly and sincerely consider the request.”Netanyahu cited the time constraints while fulfilling his duties during extraordinary times as a reason for his inability to stand trials, saying that the demand for him to testify on a thrice-weekly basis had "tipped the scales". "Three times a week is an impossible requirement," he said.&nbsp;The move follows a letter sent on November 12 by US President Donald Trump urging President Isaac Herzog to Pardon Benjamin Netanyahu. He formally wrote a letter to the Israeli head of state seeking a pardon for Bibi.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-writes-to-israeli-president-herzog-demands-pardon-for-netanyahu-bibi-netanyahu-gaza-united-states-issac-herzong-1762947588693">Trump writes to Israeli President Herzog, demands pardon for Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;“It is my honour to write to you at this historic time, as we have, together, just secured peace that has been sought for at least 3,000 years,” Trump said in his letter.&nbsp;“I hereby call on you to fully pardon Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been a formidable and decisive Time Prime Minister,” writes Trump, “and is now leading Israel into a time of peace, which includes my continued work with key Middle East leaders to add many additional countries to the world-changing Abraham Accords.”&nbsp;Trump had earlier made a similar appeal. In October, during his address to the Israeli Parliament, the US President called on President Herzog to pardon Benjamin Netanyahu. “Hey, I have an idea. Mr President, why don’t you grant him a pardon?”

The move follows repeated requests by the US President, including a formal letter sent on 12 November by Trump urging President Isaac Herzog to pardon Benjamin Netanyahu.

Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Nov 30) has submitted a formal pardon request to President Issac Herzog, saying that long-running cases were tearing the country apart. The Israeli Prime Minister is facing three separate cases of corruption filed against him in 2019, including allegations of bribery, fraud and breach of trust. He repeatedly denied wrongdoing in the ongoing court cases. "The trial in my case has been ongoing for nearly six years, and is expected to continue for many more years," Netanyahu said in a video statement, adding that "The continuation of the trial is tearing us apart from within, arousing fierce divisions, intensifying rifts." Netanyahu stated that he wanted to get acquitted after facing the full trial, "but the security and political reality, the national interest, dictate otherwise. The State of Israel is facing enormous challenges". Also Read: Indian Air Force evacuates over 50 people from flood-hit Sri Lanka, including Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals Confirming the Prime Minister's submission, Herzog's office said, “The Office of the President is aware that this is an extraordinary request which carries with it significant implications. After receiving all of the relevant opinions, the president will responsibly and sincerely consider the request.” Netanyahu cited the time constraints while fulfilling his duties during extraordinary times as a reason for his inability to stand trials, saying that the demand for him to testify on a thrice-weekly basis had "tipped the scales". "Three times a week is an impossible requirement," he said. The move follows a letter sent on November 12 by US President Donald Trump urging President Isaac Herzog to Pardon Benjamin Netanyahu. He formally wrote a letter to the Israeli head of state seeking a pardon for Bibi. Also Read: Trump writes to Israeli President Herzog, demands pardon for Netanyahu “It is my honour to write to you at this historic time, as we have, together, just secured peace that has been sought for at least 3,000 years,” Trump said in his letter. “I hereby call on you to fully pardon Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been a formidable and decisive Time Prime Minister,” writes Trump, “and is now leading Israel into a time of peace, which includes my continued work with key Middle East leaders to add many additional countries to the world-changing Abraham Accords.” Trump had earlier made a similar appeal. In October, during his address to the Israeli Parliament, the US President called on President Herzog to pardon Benjamin Netanyahu. “Hey, I have an idea. Mr President, why don’t you grant him a pardon?”

The move follows repeated requests by the US President, including a formal letter sent on 12 November by Trump urging President Isaac Herzog to pardon Benjamin Netanyahu.

Netanyahu seeks pardon in corruption cases; writes to Israeli President after Trump’s request fails

New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has evacuated more than 55 people, including four infants and six critically injured patients, from the landslide- and flood-affected areas in Sri Lanka in a dramatic rescue operation. Mi17 helicopters operating under “Operation Sagar Bandhu” airlifted stranded tourists and locals from the Kotmale region to safety in Colombo. Among those rescued were citizens of 10 countries, notably one Pakistani and three Bangladeshi nationals.&nbsp;“A Garud commando was winched down to guide the group through cross-country route to a pre-briefed helipad at Kotmale, from where 24 passengers, including Indians, foreign nationals, and Sri Lankans, were evacuated to Colombo,” an IAF statement said.&nbsp;In restricted and forested terrain where helicopters could not land directly, the elite Garud commando established contact with the stranded group and led them on foot to a clearing suitable for helicopter operations. The rescues took place in two main legs. In the first sortie, 24 passengers and three critical casualties were flown to Colombo Port and hospitals. The second sortie evacuated 21 passengers, including four infants, and another three critically injured patients.&nbsp;Officials confirmed the breakdown of nationalities: 14 Sri Lankans, 12 Indians, six Belarusians, five Iranians, four South Africans, three Poles, three Bangladeshis, two Germans, two Slovenians, two Britons, one Australian, and one Pakistani. Earlier in the day, the same Indian helicopters had airlifted five teams of Sri Lankan Army personnel, 40 troops in total, from Diyathalawa Army Camp to the affected area to assist with ground relief and road-clearing operations.&nbsp;The operation marks another instance of India providing rapid disaster response assistance to its neighbours under its “Neighbourhood First” policy. While India frequently assists Sri Lanka during natural calamities, the evacuation of Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals alongside Indians and Western tourists shows the purely humanitarian nature of the mission.&nbsp;More than 150 people are now confirmed dead, and scores remain missing after heavy rains due to Cyclone Ditwah triggered landslides and floods across the country. India launched Operation Sagar Bandhu to provide support to Sri Lanka, with Indian warships carrying 6.5 tonnes of rations and IAF aircraft transporting 21 tonnes of aid plus 80 NDRF rescuers.

In restricted and forested terrain where helicopters could not land directly, the elite Garud commando established contact with the stranded group and led them on foot to a clearing suitable for helicopter operations.

New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has evacuated more than 55 people, including four infants and six critically injured patients, from the landslide- and flood-affected areas in Sri Lanka in a dramatic rescue operation. Mi17 helicopters operating under “Operation Sagar Bandhu” airlifted stranded tourists and locals from the Kotmale region to safety in Colombo. Among those rescued were citizens of 10 countries, notably one Pakistani and three Bangladeshi nationals. “A Garud commando was winched down to guide the group through cross-country route to a pre-briefed helipad at Kotmale, from where 24 passengers, including Indians, foreign nationals, and Sri Lankans, were evacuated to Colombo,” an IAF statement said. In restricted and forested terrain where helicopters could not land directly, the elite Garud commando established contact with the stranded group and led them on foot to a clearing suitable for helicopter operations. The rescues took place in two main legs. In the first sortie, 24 passengers and three critical casualties were flown to Colombo Port and hospitals. The second sortie evacuated 21 passengers, including four infants, and another three critically injured patients. Officials confirmed the breakdown of nationalities: 14 Sri Lankans, 12 Indians, six Belarusians, five Iranians, four South Africans, three Poles, three Bangladeshis, two Germans, two Slovenians, two Britons, one Australian, and one Pakistani. Earlier in the day, the same Indian helicopters had airlifted five teams of Sri Lankan Army personnel, 40 troops in total, from Diyathalawa Army Camp to the affected area to assist with ground relief and road-clearing operations. The operation marks another instance of India providing rapid disaster response assistance to its neighbours under its “Neighbourhood First” policy. While India frequently assists Sri Lanka during natural calamities, the evacuation of Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals alongside Indians and Western tourists shows the purely humanitarian nature of the mission. More than 150 people are now confirmed dead, and scores remain missing after heavy rains due to Cyclone Ditwah triggered landslides and floods across the country. India launched Operation Sagar Bandhu to provide support to Sri Lanka, with Indian warships carrying 6.5 tonnes of rations and IAF aircraft transporting 21 tonnes of aid plus 80 NDRF rescuers.

In restricted and forested terrain where helicopters could not land directly, the elite Garud commando established contact with the stranded group and led them on foot to a clearing suitable for helicopter operations.

Indian Air Force evacuates over 50 people from flood-hit Sri Lanka, including Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals

As the US President Donald Trump’s administration hardens its crackdown against Afghan immigrants following the National Guard shooting, the Department of Homeland Security shared details of several criminals of Afghan origin, making a series of posts on social media platform X. This comes after the US State Department on Friday (Nov 28) announced an immediate pause on visa issuance for Afghan passport holders.Earlier this week, two National Guard officers were shot by an Afghan suspect. One of the officers lost her life, while the other is in critical condition, Trump said on his Truth Social platform.“Tens of thousands of unvetted Afghan aliens have hurt and terrorized Americans after the Biden administration flooded our communities with criminals, terrorists, and other threats,” the DHS wrote on X. “These are just a few of the criminals who have rewarded American generosity with violence.”Posting some of the arrests of Afghan nationals, the statement added, “These are just a few of the criminals who were said to be ‘fully vetted’ by the Biden administration. Americans do not have to suffer violence from people who should not be here at all.”“WE WILL SEND THEM BACK,” it added.The DHS earlier said that an Afghan national, Mohammad Dawood Alokozay, was arrested on Tuesday after he allegedly made a social media post in which he talked about “building a bomb” and threatening to blow up a building in Fort Worth, Texas. According to court records, Alokozay is being held on state terror charges in Tarrant County, Texas.Among the listed criminals were:<ul><li>Jamal Wali, who reportedly “shot and wounded two Fairfax, Virginia, police officers during a routine traffic stop.”</li><li>Abdullah Haji Zada and Nasir Ahmed Tawhedi, who were arrested and prosecuted in connection with a terrorist attack in Oklahoma City on Election Day 2024.</li><li>Mohammad Kharwin, an Afghan national who was on the terror watchlist.</li><li>Javid Ahmadi, arrested by ICE in 2025 and convicted of second degree assault.</li><li>Bahrullah Noori, who was charged with attempting to engage in a sexual act with a minor using force along with three other counts of engaging in a sex act with a minor.</li><li>Zabihullah Mohmand, who was charged with the rape of a teenage girl in a Missoula motel room.</li></ul>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Tens of thousands of unvetted Afghan aliens have hurt and terrorized Americans after the Biden administration flooded our communities with criminals, terrorists, and other threats. These are just a few of the criminals who have rewarded American generosity with violence:&mdash; Homeland Security (@DHSgov) <a href="https://twitter.com/DHSgov/status/1994907444494094669?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The DHS earlier said that an Afghan national, Mohammad Dawood Alokozay, was arrested on Tuesday after he allegedly made a social media post in which he talked about “building a bomb” and threatening to blow up a building in Fort Worth, Texas.

As the US President Donald Trump’s administration hardens its crackdown against Afghan immigrants following the National Guard shooting, the Department of Homeland Security shared details of several criminals of Afghan origin, making a series of posts on social media platform X. This comes after the US State Department on Friday (Nov 28) announced an immediate pause on visa issuance for Afghan passport holders. Earlier this week, two National Guard officers were shot by an Afghan suspect. One of the officers lost her life, while the other is in critical condition, Trump said on his Truth Social platform. “Tens of thousands of unvetted Afghan aliens have hurt and terrorized Americans after the Biden administration flooded our communities with criminals, terrorists, and other threats,” the DHS wrote on X. “These are just a few of the criminals who have rewarded American generosity with violence.” Posting some of the arrests of Afghan nationals, the statement added, “These are just a few of the criminals who were said to be ‘fully vetted’ by the Biden administration. Americans do not have to suffer violence from people who should not be here at all.” “WE WILL SEND THEM BACK,” it added. The DHS earlier said that an Afghan national, Mohammad Dawood Alokozay, was arrested on Tuesday after he allegedly made a social media post in which he talked about “building a bomb” and threatening to blow up a building in Fort Worth, Texas. According to court records, Alokozay is being held on state terror charges in Tarrant County, Texas. Among the listed criminals were: Jamal Wali, who reportedly “shot and wounded two Fairfax, Virginia, police officers during a routine traffic stop.” Abdullah Haji Zada and Nasir Ahmed Tawhedi, who were arrested and prosecuted in connection with a terrorist attack in Oklahoma City on Election Day 2024. Mohammad Kharwin, an Afghan national who was on the terror watchlist. Javid Ahmadi, arrested by ICE in 2025 and convicted of second degree assault. Bahrullah Noori, who was charged with attempting to engage in a sexual act with a minor using force along with three other counts of engaging in a sex act with a minor. Zabihullah Mohmand, who was charged with the rape of a teenage girl in a Missoula motel room.

The DHS earlier said that an Afghan national, Mohammad Dawood Alokozay, was arrested on Tuesday after he allegedly made a social media post in which he talked about “building a bomb” and threatening to blow up a building in Fort Worth, Texas.

Trump admin doubles down attack against 'unvetted alien' Afghans, lists crime ranging from terrorism to rape

The United States is intensifying its pressure campaign on Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, with US President Donald Trump now having announced airspace closure. Though the US cannot shut the airspace of any other country, Trump's directive on social media acted as a warning for airlines. Venezuela called the move 'colonialist threat', and reports suggested that Maduro attempted contacting Trump after his social media decree. Earlier this week, Trump designated Maduro and his government allies as members of a foreign terrorist organisation. He also suggested land strikes on the country.&nbsp;<h2>Multiple reports about developments in Venezuela but no official word</h2>According to Wall Street Journal report, Trump told Venezuela's president Maduro that if he didn’t leave power willingly, the United States would consider other options including using force. The New York Times reported that the Trump administration is planning strikes on drug-related facilities in Venezuela. Multiple reports also quoted CNN to state that Maduro "repeatedly tried" to contacting Trump since the airspace closure. Meanwhile, hundreds of flights that would normally pass through Venezuelan airspace began re-routing after Trump's warning.&nbsp;&nbsp;The announcement of airspace closure came even as a report claimed that US President Trump spoke to Venezuelan leader Maduro on a phone call last week. The two leaders reportedly discussed the possibility of meeting in the United States, according to a report in The New York Times. The report claimed that it was one of the most direct contacts between Washington and Caracas in years. However, there was no official word from the White House or Maduro's government on the call. While multiple reports are floating about Trump administration's plans, there is no official word from Trump or any other member of his administration.&nbsp;<h2>US military buildup</h2>Recently, Trump said that he had signed off on plans for CIA to operate inside Venezuela. &nbsp;Under Trump, &nbsp;the US military has gathered more than a dozen warships and 15,000 troops in the region, reported CNN. as part of what the Pentagon has undertaken "Operation Southern Spear" and has targeted alleged drug boats as part of the anti-drug-trafficking campaign.

The US has escalated pressure on Venezuela, with President Trump ordering airspace closure—halting flights via Caracas—and labeling President Maduro’s government a foreign terrorist organization. Reports also suggest warship deployments, possible strikes and failed calls from Maduro.

The United States is intensifying its pressure campaign on Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, with US President Donald Trump now having announced airspace closure. Though the US cannot shut the airspace of any other country, Trump's directive on social media acted as a warning for airlines. Venezuela called the move 'colonialist threat', and reports suggested that Maduro attempted contacting Trump after his social media decree. Earlier this week, Trump designated Maduro and his government allies as members of a foreign terrorist organisation. He also suggested land strikes on the country. Multiple reports about developments in Venezuela but no official word According to Wall Street Journal report, Trump told Venezuela's president Maduro that if he didn’t leave power willingly, the United States would consider other options including using force. The New York Times reported that the Trump administration is planning strikes on drug-related facilities in Venezuela. Multiple reports also quoted CNN to state that Maduro "repeatedly tried" to contacting Trump since the airspace closure. Meanwhile, hundreds of flights that would normally pass through Venezuelan airspace began re-routing after Trump's warning. The announcement of airspace closure came even as a report claimed that US President Trump spoke to Venezuelan leader Maduro on a phone call last week. The two leaders reportedly discussed the possibility of meeting in the United States, according to a report in The New York Times. The report claimed that it was one of the most direct contacts between Washington and Caracas in years. However, there was no official word from the White House or Maduro's government on the call. While multiple reports are floating about Trump administration's plans, there is no official word from Trump or any other member of his administration. US military buildup Recently, Trump said that he had signed off on plans for CIA to operate inside Venezuela. Under Trump, the US military has gathered more than a dozen warships and 15,000 troops in the region, reported CNN. as part of what the Pentagon has undertaken "Operation Southern Spear" and has targeted alleged drug boats as part of the anti-drug-trafficking campaign.

The US has escalated pressure on Venezuela, with President Trump ordering airspace closure—halting flights via Caracas—and labeling President Maduro’s government a foreign terrorist organization. Reports also suggest warship deployments, possible strikes and failed calls from Maduro.

Venezeula's drug facilities to be targeted by Trump? Here's what we know

Gazing at the destruction in her flood-hit village in Indonesia, Fitriati is in despair and in need of help after the devastating natural disaster that killed hundreds on Sumatra island."This is the first time the flood has been this severe. There were floods before, but not as severe as this," said the 40-year-old woman, who like Indonesians goes by one name, inspecting the damage from days heavy monsoon rains.Of the more than 300 weather-related deaths recorded in the past week on the Indonesian island, at least 54 people have been killed in Aceh province, where Fitriati lives and where nearly 50,000 families have been displaced by flooding and landslides.For some residents, this has reignited the trauma of a tsunami that ravaged Aceh in 2004, killing more than 170,000 people in the province alone."At that time, all I could think about was finding a way to evacuate. We were very scared. Extremely scared," Maulidin, a 41-year-old resident of North Aceh, told AFP.Fitriati was asleep at home when the flooding hit on Wednesday night.Alerted by the rumbling of water from a nearby river, she woke up her family and fled the house, seeing the water level was rapidly rising."My house is already destroyed, all my belongings are ruined, and mud is inside," she said.The house was tilted, buried under the mud that almost reached the roof, with cracks all over the walls.Recalling previous floods, Fitriati said "they were only chest-deep and subsided in a day. They didn't destroy houses or cause any fatalities. This is extremely bad.""I no longer know what to say when I see the condition of our house like this. Even if I cry, no tears come out anymore. My tears have dried up," she added.“We really hope we will get help so that we don't starve.”<h2>‘Second tsunami’</h2>In a village in West Sumatra province, where authorities have reported at least 90 deaths, Afrianti Usnia was clearing her house of mud and debris.When the flood hit, she only managed to grab a few items of clothes for her baby before fleeing to a relative's house."The water came like a big wave. All my belongings are gone," the 39-year-old housewife told AFP."I'm still traumatised, but our life is in this village. I hope the government can be fair. We have often been affected by floods, but we have never received assistance from the government."Authorities have conducted a weather modification operation to divert the rain, and distributed aid using planes and warships to the affected areas.But the destruction was massive, with access and communication in many areas still cut off."The situation in several areas is very critical, with some villages still trapped in floods and inaccessible," Aceh governor Muzakir Manaf told reporters late Saturday."It is as if Aceh is experiencing a second tsunami."Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Authorities have conducted a weather modification operation to divert the rain, and distributed aid using planes and warships to the affected areas. But the destruction was massive, with access and communication in many areas still cut off.

Gazing at the destruction in her flood-hit village in Indonesia, Fitriati is in despair and in need of help after the devastating natural disaster that killed hundreds on Sumatra island. "This is the first time the flood has been this severe. There were floods before, but not as severe as this," said the 40-year-old woman, who like Indonesians goes by one name, inspecting the damage from days heavy monsoon rains. Of the more than 300 weather-related deaths recorded in the past week on the Indonesian island, at least 54 people have been killed in Aceh province, where Fitriati lives and where nearly 50,000 families have been displaced by flooding and landslides. For some residents, this has reignited the trauma of a tsunami that ravaged Aceh in 2004, killing more than 170,000 people in the province alone. "At that time, all I could think about was finding a way to evacuate. We were very scared. Extremely scared," Maulidin, a 41-year-old resident of North Aceh, told AFP. Fitriati was asleep at home when the flooding hit on Wednesday night. Alerted by the rumbling of water from a nearby river, she woke up her family and fled the house, seeing the water level was rapidly rising. "My house is already destroyed, all my belongings are ruined, and mud is inside," she said. The house was tilted, buried under the mud that almost reached the roof, with cracks all over the walls. Recalling previous floods, Fitriati said "they were only chest-deep and subsided in a day. They didn't destroy houses or cause any fatalities. This is extremely bad." "I no longer know what to say when I see the condition of our house like this. Even if I cry, no tears come out anymore. My tears have dried up," she added. “We really hope we will get help so that we don't starve.” ‘Second tsunami’ In a village in West Sumatra province, where authorities have reported at least 90 deaths, Afrianti Usnia was clearing her house of mud and debris. When the flood hit, she only managed to grab a few items of clothes for her baby before fleeing to a relative's house. "The water came like a big wave. All my belongings are gone," the 39-year-old housewife told AFP. "I'm still traumatised, but our life is in this village. I hope the government can be fair. We have often been affected by floods, but we have never received assistance from the government." Authorities have conducted a weather modification operation to divert the rain, and distributed aid using planes and warships to the affected areas. But the destruction was massive, with access and communication in many areas still cut off. "The situation in several areas is very critical, with some villages still trapped in floods and inaccessible," Aceh governor Muzakir Manaf told reporters late Saturday. "It is as if Aceh is experiencing a second tsunami." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Authorities have conducted a weather modification operation to divert the rain, and distributed aid using planes and warships to the affected areas. But the destruction was massive, with access and communication in many areas still cut off.

Indonesia reels after floods ravage island, killing hundreds

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Indonesia reels after floods ravage island, killing hundreds