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Fire crews spent Friday (Nov 28) searching the last flats of a Hong Kong housing estate gutted by the city's worst fire in almost eight decades, as the death toll climbed to at least 94. With dozens in hospital, many still remain missing. The blaze that tore through Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po on Wednesday night, burned for more than 36 hours. Officials say the fire was contained to four blocks within the eight-tower estate, which holds nearly 2,000 units.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>Search and rescue efforts ongoing</h2>Search teams, as per an AFP report citing deputy director of fire services Derek Armstrong Chan, plan to force entry into every flat by 9 am (0100 GMT) in response to 25 pending calls for help.More than 50 people have been hospitalised due to the fire, with at least 12 of the injured in critical and 28 in serious condition. Among the 94 dead are a 37-year-old firefighter and two Indonesian domestic workers.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-high-rise-fire-continues-to-burn-at-least-44-killed-hundreds-still-unaccounted-for-1764211027685">Hong Kong high-rise fire continues to burn; death toll rises to 55, hundreds still unaccounted for</a><h2>Fire still burning?</h2>AFP, citing its reporter present at the scene, reports that thick smoke, falling sparks, can still be seen occasionally. It adds that with the charred scaffolding still crumbling down, firefighters continue to hose the structure to prevent reignition.<h2>Investigation launched</h2>Authorities have launched a full investigation. The estate was wrapped in bamboo scaffolding and plastic mesh for renovations, a possible factor in how quickly the fire moved. Hong Kong’s anti-corruption agency has opened a probe into the project, and three men have been arrested over foam packaging allegedly left at the site.The tragedy is the deadliest since 1948, when a blaze triggered by an explosion killed at least 135 people. But officials fear the toll may still rise. City leader John Lee earlier said 279 people had not been accounted for; although authorities later made contact with some, the figure has not been updated.

At least 94 people are dead after Hong Kong’s worst fire in nearly 80 years tore through Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. More than 50 are hospitalised, many critical, and dozens are still missing. All updates here.

Fire crews spent Friday (Nov 28) searching the last flats of a Hong Kong housing estate gutted by the city's worst fire in almost eight decades, as the death toll climbed to at least 94. With dozens in hospital, many still remain missing. The blaze that tore through Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po on Wednesday night, burned for more than 36 hours. Officials say the fire was contained to four blocks within the eight-tower estate, which holds nearly 2,000 units. Also read | Trump signals new push to choke off drug flow, says land crackdowns against Venezuela are coming 'very soon' Search and rescue efforts ongoing Search teams, as per an AFP report citing deputy director of fire services Derek Armstrong Chan, plan to force entry into every flat by 9 am (0100 GMT) in response to 25 pending calls for help. More than 50 people have been hospitalised due to the fire, with at least 12 of the injured in critical and 28 in serious condition. Among the 94 dead are a 37-year-old firefighter and two Indonesian domestic workers. Also read | Hong Kong high-rise fire continues to burn; death toll rises to 55, hundreds still unaccounted for Fire still burning? AFP, citing its reporter present at the scene, reports that thick smoke, falling sparks, can still be seen occasionally. It adds that with the charred scaffolding still crumbling down, firefighters continue to hose the structure to prevent reignition. Investigation launched Authorities have launched a full investigation. The estate was wrapped in bamboo scaffolding and plastic mesh for renovations, a possible factor in how quickly the fire moved. Hong Kong’s anti-corruption agency has opened a probe into the project, and three men have been arrested over foam packaging allegedly left at the site. The tragedy is the deadliest since 1948, when a blaze triggered by an explosion killed at least 135 people. But officials fear the toll may still rise. City leader John Lee earlier said 279 people had not been accounted for; although authorities later made contact with some, the figure has not been updated.

At least 94 people are dead after Hong Kong’s worst fire in nearly 80 years tore through Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. More than 50 are hospitalised, many critical, and dozens are still missing. All updates here.

Hong Kong high-rise inferno kills 94, search teams break into final flats. All details here

US President Donald Trump said Thursday (Nov 27) that the US "very soon" would step up its efforts to stop the flow of Venezuelan drug trafficking "by land." The move could sharpen tensions with Venezuela, which has long accused Washington of using anti-narcotics operations as a cover to force regime change. Speaking to US troops via video from Mar-a-Lago on Thanksgiving, Trump claimed great success in stopping narco-terrorism via the sea route.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>What did Trump say about Venezuela?</h2>Speaking during a Thanksgiving video call with American troops, Trump said maritime trafficking from Venezuela had already been largely curbed. "We've almost stopped — it's about 85 per cent stopped by sea," he said. "And we'll be starting to stop them by land also. The land is easier, but that's going to start very soon," he told service members.Washington, in recent days, has sent a large deployment of US military to the region, carrying out a number of airstrikes on alleged "narco-terrorist" boats in the international waters there. Washington so far has announced strikes only in international waters, under an anti-drug campaign named Southern Spear. Public statements show that more than 20 operations have been conducted in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, resulting in at least 83 deaths. The US has not released evidence that those targeted were drug traffickers.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>Officially, the mission targets transnational crime and narcotics shipments. Venezuelan officials, however, maintain that the operation is a pretext for regime change and the removal of President Nicolás Maduro, whom the US labels a drug trafficker. Maduro rejects the accusation.&nbsp;

Trump said the US will soon boost efforts to block Venezuelan drug trafficking by land, claiming that trafficking via sea routes was already about 85 per cent stopped.

US President Donald Trump said Thursday (Nov 27) that the US "very soon" would step up its efforts to stop the flow of Venezuelan drug trafficking "by land." The move could sharpen tensions with Venezuela, which has long accused Washington of using anti-narcotics operations as a cover to force regime change. Speaking to US troops via video from Mar-a-Lago on Thanksgiving, Trump claimed great success in stopping narco-terrorism via the sea route. Also read | Xi Jinping backs Nicolas Maduro, blasts US meddling as warships circle Venezuela, vows to protect Caracas' sovereignty What did Trump say about Venezuela? Speaking during a Thanksgiving video call with American troops, Trump said maritime trafficking from Venezuela had already been largely curbed. "We've almost stopped — it's about 85 per cent stopped by sea," he said. "And we'll be starting to stop them by land also. The land is easier, but that's going to start very soon," he told service members. Washington, in recent days, has sent a large deployment of US military to the region, carrying out a number of airstrikes on alleged "narco-terrorist" boats in the international waters there. Washington so far has announced strikes only in international waters, under an anti-drug campaign named Southern Spear. Public statements show that more than 20 operations have been conducted in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, resulting in at least 83 deaths. The US has not released evidence that those targeted were drug traffickers. Also read | Sarah Beckstrom, one of the National Guards shot near White House dies; Trump says other soldier ‘fighting for life’ Officially, the mission targets transnational crime and narcotics shipments. Venezuelan officials, however, maintain that the operation is a pretext for regime change and the removal of President Nicolás Maduro, whom the US labels a drug trafficker. Maduro rejects the accusation.

Trump said the US will soon boost efforts to block Venezuelan drug trafficking by land, claiming that trafficking via sea routes was already about 85 per cent stopped.

Trump signals new push to choke off drug flow, says land crackdowns against Venezuela are coming 'very soon'

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Nov 27) revealed that Sarah Beckstrom, one of the two National Guard troops shot near the White House a day earlier, had died. The second soldier, he said, remains in critical condition and was "fighting for his life". Trump said he was informed of Beckstrom's death moments before a Thanksgiving video call with US troops. He described the slain National Guardsman as "highly respected, young, magnificent person". The POTUS said that "The other young man, is fighting for his life. He's in very bad shape". Meanwhile, his government said it would review the permanent residency status of immigrants from 19 countries, including Afghanistan.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-national-guardsman-shot-by-rahmanullah-lakanwal-near-white-house-id-d-as-andrew-wolfe-1764222427397">US National Guardsman shot by Rahmanullah Lakanwal near White House ID'd as Andrew Wolfe</a><h2>'A savage monster'</h2>"I want to express the anguish and the horror of our entire nation at the terrorist attack yesterday in our nation's capital," said Trump during the Thanksgiving video call with US troops. Calling the shooter a "savage monster" he announced that 20-year-old Beckstrom has succumbed to her injuries. Linking the shooting to his decision to send National Guard troops to Washington, Trump insisted, "If they weren't effective, you probably wouldn't have had this done.""Maybe this man was upset because he couldn't practice crime," he speculated.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-us-national-guard-shooting-near-white-house-act-of-terror-seeks-to-blame-biden-1764211895540">Trump calls US National Guard shooting an 'act of terror', seeks to blame Biden</a><h2>Afghans no longer welcome in the US?</h2>After the horrific shooting the Trump administration had ordered an immediate halt to the processing of immigration applications from Afghanistan. However, later on Thursday, Joseph Edlow, Trump's director of US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), said that he had ordered a "full scale, rigorous reexamination of every Green Card for every alien from every country of concern."Later, his agency cited a list of 19 countries, like Afghanistan, Cuba, Haiti, Iran, and Myanmar, that are already subject to US travel restrictions from a Trump order issued in June.

Trump said that Sarah Beckstrom, one of two National Guard troops shot near the White House, has died. The second soldier is in critical condition and struggling to survive. He said he learned of Beckstrom’s death just before a Thanksgiving call with troops.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Nov 27) revealed that Sarah Beckstrom, one of the two National Guard troops shot near the White House a day earlier, had died. The second soldier, he said, remains in critical condition and was "fighting for his life". Trump said he was informed of Beckstrom's death moments before a Thanksgiving video call with US troops. He described the slain National Guardsman as "highly respected, young, magnificent person". The POTUS said that "The other young man, is fighting for his life. He's in very bad shape". Meanwhile, his government said it would review the permanent residency status of immigrants from 19 countries, including Afghanistan. Also read | US National Guardsman shot by Rahmanullah Lakanwal near White House ID'd as Andrew Wolfe 'A savage monster' "I want to express the anguish and the horror of our entire nation at the terrorist attack yesterday in our nation's capital," said Trump during the Thanksgiving video call with US troops. Calling the shooter a "savage monster" he announced that 20-year-old Beckstrom has succumbed to her injuries. Linking the shooting to his decision to send National Guard troops to Washington, Trump insisted, "If they weren't effective, you probably wouldn't have had this done." "Maybe this man was upset because he couldn't practice crime," he speculated. Also read | Trump calls US National Guard shooting an 'act of terror', seeks to blame Biden Afghans no longer welcome in the US? After the horrific shooting the Trump administration had ordered an immediate halt to the processing of immigration applications from Afghanistan. However, later on Thursday, Joseph Edlow, Trump's director of US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), said that he had ordered a "full scale, rigorous reexamination of every Green Card for every alien from every country of concern." Later, his agency cited a list of 19 countries, like Afghanistan, Cuba, Haiti, Iran, and Myanmar, that are already subject to US travel restrictions from a Trump order issued in June.

Trump said that Sarah Beckstrom, one of two National Guard troops shot near the White House, has died. The second soldier is in critical condition and struggling to survive. He said he learned of Beckstrom’s death just before a Thanksgiving call with troops.

Sarah Beckstrom, one of the National Guards shot near White House dies; Trump says other soldier ‘fighting for life’

On Thursday (Nov 27), Pakistan army chief Asim Munir took charge as the country's first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). With the post, the field marshal has assumed additional responsibilities created through his new post. This came into effect after the contentious 27th Amendment to the Pakistani Constitution. Munir will noe be at the helm of all three service, &nbsp;the army, air force and the navy. The post has a 5-year fixed tenure.&nbsp;It was in November 1 that the Senate passed the amendments, which abolished the position of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC). The post was created by the then Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto in 1976. It was done after the country’s surrender in the 1971 war with India. Now that Munir assumes his new post as the incumbent CJCSC, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza has retired, and with that, it is also the end of an era that has brought about change in Pakistan’s defence framework.&nbsp;Munir's promotion as the field marshal also came days after the country got embroiled in cross-border firing with India. In retaliation to the terror attack in Kashmir's Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, India launched Operation Sindoor. The aim was to target and dismantle terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asim-munir-should-have-crowned-himself-king-not-field-marshal-says-former-pak-pm-imran-khan-1747984716942">Asim Munir should have crowned himself 'King' not Field Marshal, says former Pak PM Imran Khan</a> With battered air force bases and destroyed terrorist havens, Pakistan agreed upon a ceasefire with India after four days of fighting. Yet Islamabad not only celebrated its 'self-proclaimed victory' but also made the then Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir the new Field Marshal of the country.

On November 1, the Senate passed the amendments, which abolished the position of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC). Th

On Thursday (Nov 27), Pakistan army chief Asim Munir took charge as the country's first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). With the post, the field marshal has assumed additional responsibilities created through his new post. This came into effect after the contentious 27th Amendment to the Pakistani Constitution. Munir will noe be at the helm of all three service, the army, air force and the navy. The post has a 5-year fixed tenure. It was in November 1 that the Senate passed the amendments, which abolished the position of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC). The post was created by the then Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto in 1976. It was done after the country’s surrender in the 1971 war with India. Now that Munir assumes his new post as the incumbent CJCSC, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza has retired, and with that, it is also the end of an era that has brought about change in Pakistan’s defence framework. Munir's promotion as the field marshal also came days after the country got embroiled in cross-border firing with India. In retaliation to the terror attack in Kashmir's Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, India launched Operation Sindoor. The aim was to target and dismantle terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK. Also read: Asim Munir should have crowned himself 'King' not Field Marshal, says former Pak PM Imran Khan With battered air force bases and destroyed terrorist havens, Pakistan agreed upon a ceasefire with India after four days of fighting. Yet Islamabad not only celebrated its 'self-proclaimed victory' but also made the then Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir the new Field Marshal of the country.

On November 1, the Senate passed the amendments, which abolished the position of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC). Th

Pak Field Marshal Asim Munir now leads tri-services. All about his new post

Ukraine’s Nobel Peace Prize winner Oleksandra Matviichuk has said that Russia must be punished for war crimes, and any peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine that includes an amnesty for war crimes could encourage other authoritarian leaders to attack their neighbours. Matviichuk said the leaked 28-point US-Russia plan did not account for “the human dimension” and she supported President Volodymyr Zelensky’s efforts to rewrite it in dialogue with the White House.“We need peace, but not a pause that provides Russia a chance to retreat and regroup,” said the Kyiv-based human rights lawyer. A durable settlement must include NATO-like guarantees for Ukraine, she added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-third-world-parenting-nalin-haley-calls-vivek-ramaswamy-a-creep-slams-his-reforms-1764243883515">‘Third-world parenting’: Nalin Haley calls Vivek Ramaswamy a ‘creep’, slams his reforms</a>&nbsp;Matviichuk is the head of the Ukrainian Center for Civil Liberties, which was jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2022.&nbsp;She argued that clause 26 of the initial US-Russia proposal, which said, “All parties involved in this conflict will receive full amnesty for their actions during the war and agree not to make any claims or consider any complaints in the future,” was particularly problematic.&nbsp;“It would ruin international law and the UN Charter [which urges refraining from attacks on neighbours] to create a precedent that would encourage other authoritarian leaders, that you can invade a country, kill people, and erase their identity, and you will be rewarded with new territories,” she said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-do-not-blame-volcanic-ash-from-ethiopia-for-mumbai-s-poor-aqi-bombay-hc-raps-govt-1764251444237">‘Do not blame volcanic ash from Ethiopia for Mumbai’s poor AQI’: Bombay HC raps govt</a>&nbsp;The clause has been dropped from the Ukraine-US 19-point counterproposal, but negotiations will continue into next week, when Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, visits Moscow for talks.&nbsp;“It’s naive to think Putin lost hundreds of thousands of soldiers for tiny Ukrianian cities which the majority of Russians couldn’t find on the map,” she said.&nbsp;Ukraine “deserves to be a part of Nato” and can make a strong contribution to the alliance with its enforced military experience, she added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-call-leaked-to-disrupt-ukraine-peace-talks-deal-not-even-close-yet-kremlin-1764188955915">US call leaked to disrupt Ukraine peace talks, deal not even close yet: Kremlin</a>&nbsp;Matviichuk said a peace agreement should also protect the rights of an estimated 6 million Ukrainians living in Russian-occupied territories, including 1.5 million children.&nbsp;“Russian occupation means torture, rape, filtration camps, and mass graves, yet there are zero words about these people, in the 28-point plan,” she said.&nbsp;The CCL has helped document 92,178 “probable war crimes” by Russian actors in Ukraine since 2014, when Moscow ordered the invasion of Crimea and separatists took control of parts of the eastern Donetsk and Luhansk regions. Full-scale fighting erupted in February 2022 with the Russian invasion.

Ukraine’s Nobel Peace Prize winner Oleksandra Matviichuk said any amnesty would ruin international law and the UN Charter and set a bad precedent that would encourage other authoritarian leaders to invade a country, kill people, erase their identity, and be rewarded with new territories.

Ukraine’s Nobel Peace Prize winner Oleksandra Matviichuk has said that Russia must be punished for war crimes, and any peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine that includes an amnesty for war crimes could encourage other authoritarian leaders to attack their neighbours. Matviichuk said the leaked 28-point US-Russia plan did not account for “the human dimension” and she supported President Volodymyr Zelensky’s efforts to rewrite it in dialogue with the White House. “We need peace, but not a pause that provides Russia a chance to retreat and regroup,” said the Kyiv-based human rights lawyer. A durable settlement must include NATO-like guarantees for Ukraine, she added. Also Read: ‘Third-world parenting’: Nalin Haley calls Vivek Ramaswamy a ‘creep’, slams his reforms Matviichuk is the head of the Ukrainian Center for Civil Liberties, which was jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2022. She argued that clause 26 of the initial US-Russia proposal, which said, “All parties involved in this conflict will receive full amnesty for their actions during the war and agree not to make any claims or consider any complaints in the future,” was particularly problematic. “It would ruin international law and the UN Charter [which urges refraining from attacks on neighbours] to create a precedent that would encourage other authoritarian leaders, that you can invade a country, kill people, and erase their identity, and you will be rewarded with new territories,” she said. Also Read: ‘Do not blame volcanic ash from Ethiopia for Mumbai’s poor AQI’: Bombay HC raps govt The clause has been dropped from the Ukraine-US 19-point counterproposal, but negotiations will continue into next week, when Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, visits Moscow for talks. “It’s naive to think Putin lost hundreds of thousands of soldiers for tiny Ukrianian cities which the majority of Russians couldn’t find on the map,” she said. Ukraine “deserves to be a part of Nato” and can make a strong contribution to the alliance with its enforced military experience, she added. Also Read: US call leaked to disrupt Ukraine peace talks, deal not even close yet: Kremlin Matviichuk said a peace agreement should also protect the rights of an estimated 6 million Ukrainians living in Russian-occupied territories, including 1.5 million children. “Russian occupation means torture, rape, filtration camps, and mass graves, yet there are zero words about these people, in the 28-point plan,” she said. The CCL has helped document 92,178 “probable war crimes” by Russian actors in Ukraine since 2014, when Moscow ordered the invasion of Crimea and separatists took control of parts of the eastern Donetsk and Luhansk regions. Full-scale fighting erupted in February 2022 with the Russian invasion.

Ukraine’s Nobel Peace Prize winner Oleksandra Matviichuk said any amnesty would ruin international law and the UN Charter and set a bad precedent that would encourage other authoritarian leaders to invade a country, kill people, erase their identity, and be rewarded with new territories.

‘US peace deal must punish Russian war crimes,’ says Ukraine’s Nobel peace prize winner Oleksandra Matviichuk

President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday (Nov 27) announced the restoration of military service voluntarily as security concerns rise over the threat posed by Russia and the risk of a fresh conflict breaking out in Europe. Almost three decades after France abolished conscription, Macron said young adults who wish to join the military can sign up for a 10-month service.&nbsp;"A new national service will be introduced, gradually starting next summer," he said, addressing troops in Varces-Allieres-et-Risset in southeastern France. The French president clarified that volunteers, mostly aged 18 to 19, will only be deployed on national soil.&nbsp;The move comes more than three and a half years after the start of the Russia-Ukraine war, and is in line with a broader shift in European security architecture, where nations that for decades relied on United States security guarantees are now suspicious of President Donald Trump's shifting priorities and Russia's aggressive stance.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bamboo-has-long-been-the-preferred-material-for-scaffolding-because-it-is-cheap-readily-available-and-flexible-and-can-be-secured-with-nylon-cords-1764252288144">What is bamboo scaffolding and how it contributed to spread of Hong Kong’s deadly fire</a>&nbsp;"At a time when all our European allies are making progress in the face of a threat that affects us all, France cannot remain idle," Macron declared.&nbsp;Under the new scheme, France is set to incorporate 3,000 volunteers from the summer next year, then increase gradually so as to include 10,000 young people in the army by 2030 and 50,000 by 2035.&nbsp;Currently, the French armed forces have approximately 200,000 active military personnel and 47,000 reservists, numbers expected to increase to 210,000 and 80,000, respectively, by 2030.<h2>No mandatory conscription</h2> Macron hailed former President Jacques Chirac's decision to discontinue mandatory military services in 1996, saying that conscription made no sense for Moscow's current needs.&nbsp;"In the event of a major crisis, parliament may authorise calling upon individuals beyond just volunteers," Macron added, and military service would become mandatory, but aside from this exceptional case, this national service is a service of volunteers then selected to meet the needs of our armed forces," he added.&nbsp;France's top general, armed forces chief of staff Fabien Mandon, sparked uproar in the country last week by warning that France must be ready "to lose its children", adding that Russia is "preparing for a confrontation by 2030 with our countries".&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-if-ukraine-leaves-putin-says-moscow-will-stop-combat-operations-against-kyiv-but-only-on-one-condition-1764252612579">‘If Ukraine leaves...’: Putin says Moscow ‘will stop combat operations’ against Kyiv BUT only on one condition</a>&nbsp;Earlier, the French President asserted that Paris should not display weakness in the face of ongoing threats from Russia, and emphasised the critical need for strength and vigilance.&nbsp;“We would be wrong to show weakness in the face of this threat. If we want to protect ourselves, we French – which is my sole concern – we must demonstrate that we are not weak against the power that threatens us the most,” he said during an interview on Tuesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Under the new scheme, France is set to incorporate 3,000 volunteers from the summer next year, then increase gradually so as to include 10,000 young people in the army by 2030 and 50,000 by 2035.

President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday (Nov 27) announced the restoration of military service voluntarily as security concerns rise over the threat posed by Russia and the risk of a fresh conflict breaking out in Europe. Almost three decades after France abolished conscription, Macron said young adults who wish to join the military can sign up for a 10-month service. "A new national service will be introduced, gradually starting next summer," he said, addressing troops in Varces-Allieres-et-Risset in southeastern France. The French president clarified that volunteers, mostly aged 18 to 19, will only be deployed on national soil. The move comes more than three and a half years after the start of the Russia-Ukraine war, and is in line with a broader shift in European security architecture, where nations that for decades relied on United States security guarantees are now suspicious of President Donald Trump's shifting priorities and Russia's aggressive stance. Also Read: What is bamboo scaffolding and how it contributed to spread of Hong Kong’s deadly fire "At a time when all our European allies are making progress in the face of a threat that affects us all, France cannot remain idle," Macron declared. Under the new scheme, France is set to incorporate 3,000 volunteers from the summer next year, then increase gradually so as to include 10,000 young people in the army by 2030 and 50,000 by 2035. Currently, the French armed forces have approximately 200,000 active military personnel and 47,000 reservists, numbers expected to increase to 210,000 and 80,000, respectively, by 2030. No mandatory conscription Macron hailed former President Jacques Chirac's decision to discontinue mandatory military services in 1996, saying that conscription made no sense for Moscow's current needs. "In the event of a major crisis, parliament may authorise calling upon individuals beyond just volunteers," Macron added, and military service would become mandatory, but aside from this exceptional case, this national service is a service of volunteers then selected to meet the needs of our armed forces," he added. France's top general, armed forces chief of staff Fabien Mandon, sparked uproar in the country last week by warning that France must be ready "to lose its children", adding that Russia is "preparing for a confrontation by 2030 with our countries". Also Read: ‘If Ukraine leaves...’: Putin says Moscow ‘will stop combat operations’ against Kyiv BUT only on one condition Earlier, the French President asserted that Paris should not display weakness in the face of ongoing threats from Russia, and emphasised the critical need for strength and vigilance. “We would be wrong to show weakness in the face of this threat. If we want to protect ourselves, we French – which is my sole concern – we must demonstrate that we are not weak against the power that threatens us the most,” he said during an interview on Tuesday.

Under the new scheme, France is set to incorporate 3,000 volunteers from the summer next year, then increase gradually so as to include 10,000 young people in the army by 2030 and 50,000 by 2035.

France introduces voluntary military service amid rising Russian threat

Turkish authorities shelved a draft bill Thursday to criminalise behaviour deemed "contrary to biological sex and general morality", LGBTQ activists said. The provisions, which sparked outrage when announced, "are not included in a judicial reform package" submitted to parliament on Thursday, rights group Kaos GL said in a statement.&nbsp;Yildiz Tar, a journalist and rights activist, said the legal crackdown was "postponed for now", hailing those who had worked to defend "equality, freedom and justice".&nbsp;The proposed changes to the penal code would have allowed prosecutors to target individuals identifying as gay, bisexual or transgender, and criminalise activities seen as "promoting" such identities, rights groups said.&nbsp;President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, whose ruling AKP party has Islamic roots, has repeatedly denounced LGBTQ individuals as "perverts", accusing them of threatening family values and contributing to Turkey's declining birthrate.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, whose ruling AKP party has Islamic roots, has repeatedly denounced LGBTQ individuals as perverts, accusing them of threatening family values and contributing to Turkey declining birthrate.

Turkish authorities shelved a draft bill Thursday to criminalise behaviour deemed "contrary to biological sex and general morality", LGBTQ activists said. The provisions, which sparked outrage when announced, "are not included in a judicial reform package" submitted to parliament on Thursday, rights group Kaos GL said in a statement. Yildiz Tar, a journalist and rights activist, said the legal crackdown was "postponed for now", hailing those who had worked to defend "equality, freedom and justice". The proposed changes to the penal code would have allowed prosecutors to target individuals identifying as gay, bisexual or transgender, and criminalise activities seen as "promoting" such identities, rights groups said. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, whose ruling AKP party has Islamic roots, has repeatedly denounced LGBTQ individuals as "perverts", accusing them of threatening family values and contributing to Turkey's declining birthrate.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, whose ruling AKP party has Islamic roots, has repeatedly denounced LGBTQ individuals as "perverts", accusing them of threatening family values and contributing to Turkey's declining birthrate.

‘Contrary to biological sex, general morality’: Turkey proposes bill to criminalise LGBTQ community

FBI Chief Kash Patel held a press conference on Thursday (Nov 27) after a man, identified as an Afghan, allegedly shot two National Guard soldiers near the White House. Patel said that the case is being probed as an act of terror. He said multiple search warrants have been executed in the case, including the suspect's last known residence. He said he has also received the confirmation that the suspect had a relationship with partner forces.&nbsp;"It is an ongoing investigation of terrorism," Patel told a news conference a day after the shooting left the National Guard members critically wounded and stunned America as it celebrated the Thanksgiving holiday.&nbsp;The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, had worked with Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)-backed military units during the US war in Afghanistan, the agency has confirmed. The suspect came to the US in September 2021 under an Operation Allies Welcome program that gave some Afghans who had worked for the US government entry visas to the US. The &nbsp;CIA director, John Ratcliffe, confirmed the claim.&nbsp;“The Biden administration justified bringing the alleged shooter to the United States in September 2021 due to his prior work with the US government, including CIA,” Ratcliffe told Fox News.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services said after the shooting that it had stopped processing residency applications from Afghan nationals.&nbsp;“Effective immediately, processing of all immigration requests relating to Afghan nationals is stopped indefinitely pending further review of security and vetting protocols,” the agency said on social media.&nbsp;'Don't stigmatise Afghans after shooting': UN official&nbsp;&nbsp;Amid the probe, a UN official told AFP that the shooting should not be a reason for the US President Donald Trump's administration to review its immigration policy towards Afghans.&nbsp;"It's a heinous crime what this person is being accused of, and if it is true, which seems to be the case, then certainly we condemn it," said Arafat Jamal, head of the UN's refugee agency (UNHCR) in Kabul.

Patel said that the case is being probed as an act of terror. He said multiple search warrants have been executed in the case, including the suspect last known residence. 

FBI Chief Kash Patel held a press conference on Thursday (Nov 27) after a man, identified as an Afghan, allegedly shot two National Guard soldiers near the White House. Patel said that the case is being probed as an act of terror. He said multiple search warrants have been executed in the case, including the suspect's last known residence. He said he has also received the confirmation that the suspect had a relationship with partner forces. "It is an ongoing investigation of terrorism," Patel told a news conference a day after the shooting left the National Guard members critically wounded and stunned America as it celebrated the Thanksgiving holiday. The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, had worked with Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)-backed military units during the US war in Afghanistan, the agency has confirmed. The suspect came to the US in September 2021 under an Operation Allies Welcome program that gave some Afghans who had worked for the US government entry visas to the US. The CIA director, John Ratcliffe, confirmed the claim. “The Biden administration justified bringing the alleged shooter to the United States in September 2021 due to his prior work with the US government, including CIA,” Ratcliffe told Fox News. Meanwhile, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services said after the shooting that it had stopped processing residency applications from Afghan nationals. “Effective immediately, processing of all immigration requests relating to Afghan nationals is stopped indefinitely pending further review of security and vetting protocols,” the agency said on social media. 'Don't stigmatise Afghans after shooting': UN official Amid the probe, a UN official told AFP that the shooting should not be a reason for the US President Donald Trump's administration to review its immigration policy towards Afghans. "It's a heinous crime what this person is being accused of, and if it is true, which seems to be the case, then certainly we condemn it," said Arafat Jamal, head of the UN's refugee agency (UNHCR) in Kabul.

Patel said that the case is being probed as an act of terror. He said multiple search warrants have been executed in the case, including the suspect's last known residence.&nbsp;

'Suspect had a relationship with partner forces': FBI is probing National Guard shooting as act of terror. Did suspect have CIA link?

Hong Kong’s worst fire in decades has claimed at least 65 lives and injured 70 others, with hundreds still missing. The blaze broke out suddenly on Wednesday afternoon and rapidly tore through sections of the tightly packed high-rise public housing complex in the Tai Pao district. The Wang Fuk Court complex, home to over 4,600 residents according to recent census records, was severely affected. Authorities have said the situation is now “basically under control.” &nbsp;The disaster, the financial hub's most devastating in more than 60 years, put Bamboo scaffolding, a centuries-old tradition that was prevalent in Hong Kong, in the spotlight for its role in spreading the blaze, as experts believe it presented a path for the fire to spread vertically.<h3>What is bamboo scaffolding?</h3>Bamboo has long been the preferred material for scaffolding because it is cheap, readily available and flexible, and can be secured with nylon cords, a practice that existed before the city-state began constructing massive skyscrapers.&nbsp;The craft, which was invented in mainland China, where bamboo is considered a symbol of grace and moral fortitude, has been a bedrock of architecture. Bamboo scaffolding also assumes added significance as it is widely believed that the Great Wall of China was built using the technique.&nbsp;Also Read: ‘<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-1-200-to-each-affected-house-38-5-million-for-residents-aid-hong-kong-govt-after-building-fire-kills-55-leaves-hundreds-homeless-1764243371424">$1,200 to each affected house, $38.5 million for residents’ aid’: Hong Kong govt after building fire kills 55, leaves hundreds homeless</a>&nbsp;However, it has been phased out largely for stronger metal scaffolding and clamps, but builders still use the bamboo because it is economical compared to other options, in addition to it being easier to cut and fitting the narrow lanes of Hong Kong. Hundreds of bamboo poles can often be seen lashed together on the side of a modern office tower.&nbsp;The bamboo scaffolding is built by specialist workers known as "spiders". There are 4,000 such specialists in the city; they lash together bamboo poles to build intricate grid-like scaffolding that is covered by additional netting to prevent construction mesh debris from injuring passers-by.&nbsp;The blocks at Wang Fuk Court housing complex, where the fire caused devastation, were also using the bamboo scalfolding for their renovation project. According to experts, it let the fire rapidly spread across the green netting and sent bamboo lattices collapsing to the ground in flames.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/miracle-survivor-rescued-from-16th-floor-of-hong-kong-complex-death-toll-mounts-to-65-1764250148109">Miracle survivor rescued from 16th floor of Hong Kong complex, death toll mounts to 65</a>&nbsp;Before the fire, public discussion around bamboo scaffolding largely centred on worker safety. Government data shows that Hong Kong recorded 22 fatal workplace accidents linked to bamboo scaffolding between 2018 and 2024. Six of these occurred during the construction of new scaffolding, while the remaining cases happened during repair work.&nbsp;

Bamboo has long been the preferred material for scaffolding because it is cheap, readily available and flexible, and can be secured with nylon cords.

Hong Kong’s worst fire in decades has claimed at least 65 lives and injured 70 others, with hundreds still missing. The blaze broke out suddenly on Wednesday afternoon and rapidly tore through sections of the tightly packed high-rise public housing complex in the Tai Pao district. The Wang Fuk Court complex, home to over 4,600 residents according to recent census records, was severely affected. Authorities have said the situation is now “basically under control.” The disaster, the financial hub's most devastating in more than 60 years, put Bamboo scaffolding, a centuries-old tradition that was prevalent in Hong Kong, in the spotlight for its role in spreading the blaze, as experts believe it presented a path for the fire to spread vertically. What is bamboo scaffolding? Bamboo has long been the preferred material for scaffolding because it is cheap, readily available and flexible, and can be secured with nylon cords, a practice that existed before the city-state began constructing massive skyscrapers. The craft, which was invented in mainland China, where bamboo is considered a symbol of grace and moral fortitude, has been a bedrock of architecture. Bamboo scaffolding also assumes added significance as it is widely believed that the Great Wall of China was built using the technique. Also Read: ‘$1,200 to each affected house, $38.5 million for residents’ aid’: Hong Kong govt after building fire kills 55, leaves hundreds homeless However, it has been phased out largely for stronger metal scaffolding and clamps, but builders still use the bamboo because it is economical compared to other options, in addition to it being easier to cut and fitting the narrow lanes of Hong Kong. Hundreds of bamboo poles can often be seen lashed together on the side of a modern office tower. The bamboo scaffolding is built by specialist workers known as "spiders". There are 4,000 such specialists in the city; they lash together bamboo poles to build intricate grid-like scaffolding that is covered by additional netting to prevent construction mesh debris from injuring passers-by. The blocks at Wang Fuk Court housing complex, where the fire caused devastation, were also using the bamboo scalfolding for their renovation project. According to experts, it let the fire rapidly spread across the green netting and sent bamboo lattices collapsing to the ground in flames. Also Read: Miracle survivor rescued from 16th floor of Hong Kong complex, death toll mounts to 65 Before the fire, public discussion around bamboo scaffolding largely centred on worker safety. Government data shows that Hong Kong recorded 22 fatal workplace accidents linked to bamboo scaffolding between 2018 and 2024. Six of these occurred during the construction of new scaffolding, while the remaining cases happened during repair work.

Bamboo has long been the preferred material for scaffolding because it is cheap, readily available and flexible, and can be secured with nylon cords.

What is bamboo scaffolding and how it contributed to spread of Hong Kong’s deadly fire

Venezuela has stripped six major international airlines of their operating rights after they suspended flights to the country following a warning issued by the US Federal Aviation Administration. The civil aviation authority of Venezuela cancelled permits for Iberia, Latam Colombia, TAP, Avianca, Turkish Airlines and Gol, a move that further isolates the connectivity with the Caribbean nation and delivers its threats made this week.&nbsp;In a statement, Caracas accused the carriers of participating in "joint actions of state terrorism promoted by the United States" by "unilaterally" suspending commercial flights. The US aviation regulator had recently warned major airlines of a "potentially hazardous situation" when flying over Venezuela, citing a worsening security situation and increased military activity across the country, as per the report in Reuters.<h3>The US military has been deploying forces in Venezuela</h3>Caracas responded that the FAA has no authority over Venezuelan airspace. US forces have been increasing deployments in the Caribbean for months as tensions with Venezuela escalate, accusing President Nicolás Maduro of enabling drug trafficking that harms Americans.&nbsp;Maduro has rejected these allegations, claiming US President Donald Trump aims to oust him. Meanwhile, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) said Monday that Venezuelan authorities had given foreign airlines a 48-hour ultimatum to resume flights or lose their landing rights.&nbsp;Several international airlines have cancelled flights to Venezuela in recent days, ignoring Caracas's 48-hour deadline. Iberia said it wished to restart flights to Venezuela as soon as full safety conditions were met.&nbsp;Ignoring the 48-hour deadline of Caracas, several international airlines have cancelled flights to Venezuela in these days. Amid the development, Iberia expressed its interest in restarting flights to Venezuela as soon as the country completely met the safety conditions.&nbsp;In addition, Air Europa and Plus Ultra had suspended flights, but their permits have not been revoked. International airlines Copa and Wingo also continue to operate in Venezuela, as do domestic airlines flying to Colombia, Curaçao and Panama.

The civil aviation authority of Venezuela cancelled permits for Iberia, Latam Colombia, TAP, Avianca, Turkish Airlines and Gol, a move that further isolates the connectivity with the Caribbean nation and delivers its threats made this week.

Venezuela has stripped six major international airlines of their operating rights after they suspended flights to the country following a warning issued by the US Federal Aviation Administration. The civil aviation authority of Venezuela cancelled permits for Iberia, Latam Colombia, TAP, Avianca, Turkish Airlines and Gol, a move that further isolates the connectivity with the Caribbean nation and delivers its threats made this week. In a statement, Caracas accused the carriers of participating in "joint actions of state terrorism promoted by the United States" by "unilaterally" suspending commercial flights. The US aviation regulator had recently warned major airlines of a "potentially hazardous situation" when flying over Venezuela, citing a worsening security situation and increased military activity across the country, as per the report in Reuters. The US military has been deploying forces in Venezuela Caracas responded that the FAA has no authority over Venezuelan airspace. US forces have been increasing deployments in the Caribbean for months as tensions with Venezuela escalate, accusing President Nicolás Maduro of enabling drug trafficking that harms Americans. Maduro has rejected these allegations, claiming US President Donald Trump aims to oust him. Meanwhile, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) said Monday that Venezuelan authorities had given foreign airlines a 48-hour ultimatum to resume flights or lose their landing rights. Several international airlines have cancelled flights to Venezuela in recent days, ignoring Caracas's 48-hour deadline. Iberia said it wished to restart flights to Venezuela as soon as full safety conditions were met. Ignoring the 48-hour deadline of Caracas, several international airlines have cancelled flights to Venezuela in these days. Amid the development, Iberia expressed its interest in restarting flights to Venezuela as soon as the country completely met the safety conditions. In addition, Air Europa and Plus Ultra had suspended flights, but their permits have not been revoked. International airlines Copa and Wingo also continue to operate in Venezuela, as do domestic airlines flying to Colombia, Curaçao and Panama.

The civil aviation authority of Venezuela cancelled permits for Iberia, Latam Colombia, TAP, Avianca, Turkish Airlines and Gol, a move that further isolates the connectivity with the Caribbean nation and delivers its threats made this week.

Venezuela revokes rights of 6 major airlines amid escalating tension with US, accuses America of ‘state terrorism’

Amid the ongoing talks around ending the war with Donald Trump's 28-point peace plan, the Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (Nov 27) that his country would end the war with Ukraine if Kyiv withdrew from territory Moscow claims as its own. Otherwise, Moscow will take the regions by force, the Russian president warned.&nbsp;"If Ukrainian forces leave the territories they hold, then we will stop combat operations," Putin said during a visit to Kyrgyzstan. "If they don't, then we will achieve it by military means," he added.&nbsp;Putin also said that the outlines of a draft peace plan discussed by the United States and Ukraine could become the basis of future agreements to end the conflict in Ukraine, but that if not, then Russia would continue to fight.&nbsp;“We discussed it (Ukraine conflict settlement) with US negotiators before my visit to Alaska. Afterwards, the 28 point list was formed. As I’ve already said publicly, it was given to us through certain channels. We studied this document. Following that, the US – Ukraine negotiations took place in Geneva. As I understand, they decided that all 28 points should be grouped," Putin said.&nbsp;"In general, we agree that it can be used as a basis for future agreements. But it will be impolite on my part to speak about any final versions, because there are none," he added.&nbsp;'Russia ‘certainly won’t agree to’ Trump’s 28-pointers Ukraine peace plan'&nbsp;Russia's former director at the National Security Council said on Monday (Nov 24) that the peace plan proposed by US President Donald Trump in the Russia-Ukraine war has certain parts that Moscow "certainly would not agree to". He said that Russia has “every incentive” to drag out the negotiation process. “There are elements of this the Russians certainly won’t agree to. There are elements the Ukrainians won’t agree to. But the Russians have every incentive to play this along,” Jeffrey Edmonds, former director for Russia at the National Security Council, told CNN. “There’s no incentive for them to actually agree to this, but there’s every incentive for them to drag it along,” he said.&nbsp;"You have to change the Kremlin’s calculus on whether or not they can achieve their goals in Ukraine … That is the only thing that’s ultimately going to bring them to the table," he said when he was asked what could push Russia toward some form of peace agreement.&nbsp;This came after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, after a meeting with the Ukrainian delegation in Geneva on Sunday (Nov 23), said that it was a "productive" and "meaningful" meeting. Rubio said they will come back in around one or two hours, so he will not take questions now. "We've had probably the most productive and meaningful meeting so far in this entire process," he said.

Putin said on Thursday (Nov 27) that his country would end the war with Ukraine if Kyiv withdrew from territory Moscow claims at its own. Otherwise, Moscow will take the regions by force, the Russian president warned.

Amid the ongoing talks around ending the war with Donald Trump's 28-point peace plan, the Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (Nov 27) that his country would end the war with Ukraine if Kyiv withdrew from territory Moscow claims as its own. Otherwise, Moscow will take the regions by force, the Russian president warned. "If Ukrainian forces leave the territories they hold, then we will stop combat operations," Putin said during a visit to Kyrgyzstan. "If they don't, then we will achieve it by military means," he added. Putin also said that the outlines of a draft peace plan discussed by the United States and Ukraine could become the basis of future agreements to end the conflict in Ukraine, but that if not, then Russia would continue to fight. “We discussed it (Ukraine conflict settlement) with US negotiators before my visit to Alaska. Afterwards, the 28 point list was formed. As I’ve already said publicly, it was given to us through certain channels. We studied this document. Following that, the US – Ukraine negotiations took place in Geneva. As I understand, they decided that all 28 points should be grouped," Putin said. "In general, we agree that it can be used as a basis for future agreements. But it will be impolite on my part to speak about any final versions, because there are none," he added. 'Russia ‘certainly won’t agree to’ Trump’s 28-pointers Ukraine peace plan' Russia's former director at the National Security Council said on Monday (Nov 24) that the peace plan proposed by US President Donald Trump in the Russia-Ukraine war has certain parts that Moscow "certainly would not agree to". He said that Russia has “every incentive” to drag out the negotiation process. “There are elements of this the Russians certainly won’t agree to. There are elements the Ukrainians won’t agree to. But the Russians have every incentive to play this along,” Jeffrey Edmonds, former director for Russia at the National Security Council, told CNN. “There’s no incentive for them to actually agree to this, but there’s every incentive for them to drag it along,” he said. "You have to change the Kremlin’s calculus on whether or not they can achieve their goals in Ukraine … That is the only thing that’s ultimately going to bring them to the table," he said when he was asked what could push Russia toward some form of peace agreement. This came after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, after a meeting with the Ukrainian delegation in Geneva on Sunday (Nov 23), said that it was a "productive" and "meaningful" meeting. Rubio said they will come back in around one or two hours, so he will not take questions now. "We've had probably the most productive and meaningful meeting so far in this entire process," he said.

Putin said on Thursday (Nov 27) that his country would end the war with Ukraine if Kyiv withdrew from territory Moscow claims as its own. Otherwise, Moscow will take the regions by force, the Russian president warned.

‘If Ukraine leaves...’: Putin says Moscow ‘will stop combat operations’ against Kyiv BUT only on one condition

On Wednesday (Nov 26), a massive fire engulfed a crowded Hong Kong apartment killing at least 65 people. In this tragic situation, there are some stories of hope and miracles, as a survivor was pulled out. Firefighters found a male survivor who was in the 16th floor of Wang Tai House.&nbsp;Hong Kong Police have arrested three men on suspicion of manslaughter in connection with the fire in the high-rise complex in Tai Po. The country witnessed the worst blaze in 10 years, the fire sparked first in the afternoon and is still burning even in the early hours of Thursday.

Hong Kong Police have arrested three men on suspicion of manslaughter in connection with the fire in the high-rise complex in Tai Po. 

On Wednesday (Nov 26), a massive fire engulfed a crowded Hong Kong apartment killing at least 65 people. In this tragic situation, there are some stories of hope and miracles, as a survivor was pulled out. Firefighters found a male survivor who was in the 16th floor of Wang Tai House. Hong Kong Police have arrested three men on suspicion of manslaughter in connection with the fire in the high-rise complex in Tai Po. The country witnessed the worst blaze in 10 years, the fire sparked first in the afternoon and is still burning even in the early hours of Thursday.

Hong Kong Police have arrested three men on suspicion of manslaughter in connection with the fire in the high-rise complex in Tai Po.&nbsp;

Miracle survivor rescued from 16th floor of Hong Kong complex, death toll mounts to 65

Amid the health rumours of former Pakistan prime minister, the Chief Minister of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Sohail Afridi, held a protest outside Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail demanding permission to meet Imran Khan on Thursday (Nov 27). This came after Khan's political party, PTI, demanded a government clarification on the whereabouts of Khan. “Go and tell them CM of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is here to meet Imran Khan," said Afridi when he was stopped by the police. “Who is sitting inside the jail – colonel or jailer?" he asked.&nbsp;PTI urged the Shehbaz Sharif government to arrange an immediate meeting between Khan and his family. This came after repeated refusals by the authorities to allow Imran's sisters to meet him at Adiala jail, which resulted in speculation on the whereabouts of Khan.&nbsp;As per Pakistan's Dawn, the speculation around the health of the former PM intensified after multiple unverified claims on X on Khan's concerning health and even his death. The hashtag 'Where is Imran Khan?' also trended on the platform.&nbsp;The PTI said in a post on X that "rumours of a despicable nature" were being spread from "Afghan and Indian media, and foreign social media accounts" regarding Imran's condition.&nbsp;The party demanded that the "current government and the interior ministry immediately and clearly dismiss and clarify the rumour and immediately arrange a meeting between Imran and his family".&nbsp;"A formal and transparent statement should be issued on behalf of the state regarding the health, security and current status of Imran," the party added.

Chief Minister of Pakistan Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Sohail Afridi, held a protest outside Rawalpindi Adiala Jail demanding permission to meet Imran Khan on Thursday (Nov 27). 

Amid the health rumours of former Pakistan prime minister, the Chief Minister of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Sohail Afridi, held a protest outside Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail demanding permission to meet Imran Khan on Thursday (Nov 27). This came after Khan's political party, PTI, demanded a government clarification on the whereabouts of Khan. “Go and tell them CM of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is here to meet Imran Khan," said Afridi when he was stopped by the police. “Who is sitting inside the jail – colonel or jailer?" he asked. PTI urged the Shehbaz Sharif government to arrange an immediate meeting between Khan and his family. This came after repeated refusals by the authorities to allow Imran's sisters to meet him at Adiala jail, which resulted in speculation on the whereabouts of Khan. As per Pakistan's Dawn, the speculation around the health of the former PM intensified after multiple unverified claims on X on Khan's concerning health and even his death. The hashtag 'Where is Imran Khan?' also trended on the platform. The PTI said in a post on X that "rumours of a despicable nature" were being spread from "Afghan and Indian media, and foreign social media accounts" regarding Imran's condition. The party demanded that the "current government and the interior ministry immediately and clearly dismiss and clarify the rumour and immediately arrange a meeting between Imran and his family". "A formal and transparent statement should be issued on behalf of the state regarding the health, security and current status of Imran," the party added.

&nbsp;Chief Minister of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Sohail Afridi, held a protest outside Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail demanding permission to meet Imran Khan on Thursday (Nov 27).&nbsp;

‘Who is sitting inside the jail?’: KPK CM protests outside Adiala Jail, demands meeting with Imran Khan

At least 33 people have been killed in Thailand as the country was hit by severe floods and torrential rain. Amid this, a video has been circulating showing the dramatic moment captured by a drone showing a family being rescued from the rooftop of their nearly-submerged house in Hat Yai, southern Thailand. As per the TPBS, the family of 5 had smashed through the roof of their house to avoid the rising waters.&nbsp;The footage showed an area engulfed in flood, with only the roofs of the houses visible. A boat was seen heading to a house. On the roof, a family of 5 people was seen with a few things they could have saved in the flood. The rescue team on the boat was seen saving the family. The zoom-out version of the video showed the entire area, buildings, and vehicles almost underwater.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">A dramatic moment captured by a drone showed a family being rescued from the rooftop of their nearly-submerged house in Hat Yai, southern Thailand, which is experiencing heavy flooding. According to local broadcaster TPBS, the family of 5 had smashed through the roof of their… <a href="https://t.co/hSjMo2rwma">pic.twitter.com/hSjMo2rwma</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1994012609843220793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The footage showed an area engulfed in flood, with only the roofs of the houses visible. A boat was seen heading to a house. On the roof, a family of 5 people was seen with a few things they could have saved in the flood. 

At least 33 people have been killed in Thailand as the country was hit by severe floods and torrential rain. Amid this, a video has been circulating showing the dramatic moment captured by a drone showing a family being rescued from the rooftop of their nearly-submerged house in Hat Yai, southern Thailand. As per the TPBS, the family of 5 had smashed through the roof of their house to avoid the rising waters. The footage showed an area engulfed in flood, with only the roofs of the houses visible. A boat was seen heading to a house. On the roof, a family of 5 people was seen with a few things they could have saved in the flood. The rescue team on the boat was seen saving the family. The zoom-out version of the video showed the entire area, buildings, and vehicles almost underwater.

The footage showed an area engulfed in flood, with only the roofs of the houses visible. A boat was seen heading to a house. On the roof, a family of 5 people was seen with a few things they could have saved in the flood.&nbsp;

WATCH: Dramatic rescue of family of 5, trapped in flood in Thailand, captured by drone

Nalin Haley, son of former US presidential candidate Nikki Haley, has called Vivek Ramaswamy a “creep” who “should not be near any child” and accused him of proposing “third-world parenting” through his education reforms. Nalin slammed Ramaswamy in a post on X and criticised the reforms unveiled by him. Ramaswamy, who was the youngest presidential candidate in the 2024 Republican primaries, is running for governor of Ohio in 2026 and Democratic candidate Amy Acton is likely to be his main rival.“This creep should not be near any child, and we absolutely can’t have his third world parenting style imposed on American kids,” he wrote, reacting to Ramaswamy’s proposals to extend school hours and introduce year-round schooling.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This creep should not be near any child and we absolutely can’t have his third world parenting style imposed on American kids <a href="https://t.co/YoncfrMpwl">https://t.co/YoncfrMpwl</a> <a href="https://t.co/bxpv2oS9FN">pic.twitter.com/bxpv2oS9FN</a>&mdash; Nalin Haley (@Nalin_Haley) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nalin_Haley/status/1993718673295765924?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-call-leaked-to-disrupt-ukraine-peace-talks-deal-not-even-close-yet-kremlin-1764188955915">US call leaked to disrupt Ukraine peace talks, deal not even close yet: Kremlin</a><h2>Ramaswamy reform plans for public education system</h2>&nbsp;Ramaswamy recently laid out an overhaul of Ohio’s public-education system, arguing that outdated structures were failing students. Ramaswamy says he wants to make parenting more affordable by keeping schools open all year and extending the school day so children would go home at 4 pm instead of 3 pm. He argued that longer school hours would reduce childcare costs for working parents.&nbsp;Ramaswamy has proposed to raise the academic standards by restoring the state’s third-grade reading guarantee, expanding phonics-based learning, linking the pay of teachers to performance, widening school-choice options, and removing “ideological content” from classrooms. He has separately cited government data to claim that American students are struggling with reading and mathematics, and stresses that his reforms will fix the “broken system”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slights-another-female-reporter-calls-her-ugly-both-inside-and-out-1764185627326">Trump slights another female reporter, calls her ‘ugly, both inside and out’</a><h2>Ramaswamy says sex-education lessons should begin at 8</h2>&nbsp;In his post, Nalin also cited a 2022 comment by Ramaswamy reportedly suggesting that Republicans should use rhyme-based slogans such as “wait until 8”—a proposed alternative to Florida’s “don’t say gay” law, implying sex-education lessons should begin only once children turn eight.Education continues to dominate political debates in the US, and Republicans are calling for structural reforms, curriculum scrutiny, and expanded alternatives to public schooling. Ramaswamy’s 2026 gubernatorial campaign is likely to focus on these themes.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-press-secretary-karoline-leavitt-s-relative-detained-by-ice-1764174273296">White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt’s relative detained by ICE</a>&nbsp;Nalin is emerging as a voice of “America First” and pro-MAGA politics. Earlier, he said all legal and illegal immigration should be banned and H-1B visas must come to a stop. His comments stirred a row among White nationalists, who even called for his deportation, but he says dual citizenship is a “stupid idea” and that naturalised citizens should not hold office.Both Nalin and Vivek are of Indian origin.

Ramaswamy has proposed to raise the academic standards by restoring the state’s third-grade reading guarantee, expanding phonics-based learning, linking the pay of teachers to performance, widening school-choice options, and removing “ideological content” from classrooms.

Nalin Haley, son of former US presidential candidate Nikki Haley, has called Vivek Ramaswamy a “creep” who “should not be near any child” and accused him of proposing “third-world parenting” through his education reforms. Nalin slammed Ramaswamy in a post on X and criticised the reforms unveiled by him. Ramaswamy, who was the youngest presidential candidate in the 2024 Republican primaries, is running for governor of Ohio in 2026 and Democratic candidate Amy Acton is likely to be his main rival. “This creep should not be near any child, and we absolutely can’t have his third world parenting style imposed on American kids,” he wrote, reacting to Ramaswamy’s proposals to extend school hours and introduce year-round schooling.

Ramaswamy has proposed to raise the academic standards by restoring the state’s third-grade reading guarantee, expanding phonics-based learning, linking the pay of teachers to performance, widening school-choice options, and removing “ideological content” from classrooms.

‘Third-world parenting’: Nalin Haley calls Vivek Ramaswamy a ‘creep’, slams his reforms

Rumours over the death of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan have been widely circulating on social media. But, dismissing speculation over his death, Adiala Jail administration on Wednesday (Nov 26, 2025) confirmed that he had been moved out of the facility, and claimed that his health is good and the death rumours were "baseless".&nbsp;Meanwhile, Pakistani news portal Geo quoted officials from the Rawalpindi prison who revealed that there is no truth to reports hinting at his transfer from Adiala jail. Imran Khan's party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), also received a response from the government official amid speculation about his health, urging authorities to meet between him and his family, Dawn reported.&nbsp;Khan, facing roughly 150 legal cases, has been in jail since August 2023, yet remains a strong favourite among his supporters. How did events unfold?&nbsp;&nbsp;Here is a summary of the developments leading up to his 9 May 2023 arrest and the key milestones that followed:&nbsp;April 10, 2022: Imran Khan is removed as prime minister after losing a no-confidence vote in parliament.&nbsp;Aug. 22, 2022: He is booked under anti-terrorism charges for allegedly inciting violence, though the case is later dropped.&nbsp;Oct. 21, 2022: The Election Commission bars him from holding public office for five years for failing to fully declare his assets. Khan contests the decision in court.&nbsp;May 9, 2023: Paramilitary Rangers arrested him from the Islamabad High Court in the “Toshakhana case”, involving alleged illegal trading of state gifts. The arrest sparks nationwide unrest and attacks on military and public installations.&nbsp;May 10, 2023: The Supreme Court orders his release, ruling that his arrest from inside the court premises was unlawful.&nbsp;May 13, 2023: Numerous cases are filed against Khan across Pakistan for his alleged role in the 9 May violence. He has been cleared in several, while others continue.&nbsp;Aug. 5, 2023: A court sentences Khan to three years in prison in the Toshakhana case. He is arrested from his home in Lahore and urges supporters to protest.&nbsp;Jan. 30, 2024: The Islamabad high court hands Khan and former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi 10-year sentences in the “cipher case” involving alleged mishandling of state secrets. Both were acquitted on June 3.&nbsp;Jan. 31, 2024: Khan and his wife receive 14-year sentences in another Toshakhana case. They are later cleared due to insufficient evidence.&nbsp;Feb. 3, 2024: Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, are sentenced to seven years for allegedly breaching Islamic marriage laws.&nbsp;April 1, 2024: The Islamabad High Court suspends his three-year Toshakhana sentence.&nbsp;July 13, 2024: Khan and his wife are acquitted in the unlawful marriage case.&nbsp;Nov. 20, 2024: The Islamabad High Court grants him bail in the Toshakhana-2 case. The same day, the Lahore High Court rejected his pre-arrest bail pleas in cases linked to the 9 May 2023 unrest.&nbsp;Nov. 24, 2024: PTI launches nationwide rallies towards Islamabad demanding Khan’s release, freedom for detained party workers, and an inquiry into the alleged rigging of the 8 February elections.&nbsp;The Pakistani government has filed over 200 cases against Khan since his ouster in April 2022. He has been convicted in at least three cases, which include the Toshakhana case, the state secrets case, and the unlawful marriage case.

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, facing roughly 150 legal cases, has been in jail since August 2023, yet remains a strong favourite among his supporters. So how did Khan end up in prison? Here's is complete timeline of his cases. 

Rumours over the death of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan have been widely circulating on social media. But, dismissing speculation over his death, Adiala Jail administration on Wednesday (Nov 26, 2025) confirmed that he had been moved out of the facility, and claimed that his health is good and the death rumours were "baseless". Meanwhile, Pakistani news portal Geo quoted officials from the Rawalpindi prison who revealed that there is no truth to reports hinting at his transfer from Adiala jail. Imran Khan's party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), also received a response from the government official amid speculation about his health, urging authorities to meet between him and his family, Dawn reported. Khan, facing roughly 150 legal cases, has been in jail since August 2023, yet remains a strong favourite among his supporters. How did events unfold? Here is a summary of the developments leading up to his 9 May 2023 arrest and the key milestones that followed: April 10, 2022: Imran Khan is removed as prime minister after losing a no-confidence vote in parliament. Aug. 22, 2022: He is booked under anti-terrorism charges for allegedly inciting violence, though the case is later dropped. Oct. 21, 2022: The Election Commission bars him from holding public office for five years for failing to fully declare his assets. Khan contests the decision in court. May 9, 2023: Paramilitary Rangers arrested him from the Islamabad High Court in the “Toshakhana case”, involving alleged illegal trading of state gifts. The arrest sparks nationwide unrest and attacks on military and public installations. May 10, 2023: The Supreme Court orders his release, ruling that his arrest from inside the court premises was unlawful. May 13, 2023: Numerous cases are filed against Khan across Pakistan for his alleged role in the 9 May violence. He has been cleared in several, while others continue. Aug. 5, 2023: A court sentences Khan to three years in prison in the Toshakhana case. He is arrested from his home in Lahore and urges supporters to protest. Jan. 30, 2024: The Islamabad high court hands Khan and former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi 10-year sentences in the “cipher case” involving alleged mishandling of state secrets. Both were acquitted on June 3. Jan. 31, 2024: Khan and his wife receive 14-year sentences in another Toshakhana case. They are later cleared due to insufficient evidence. Feb. 3, 2024: Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, are sentenced to seven years for allegedly breaching Islamic marriage laws. April 1, 2024: The Islamabad High Court suspends his three-year Toshakhana sentence. July 13, 2024: Khan and his wife are acquitted in the unlawful marriage case. Nov. 20, 2024: The Islamabad High Court grants him bail in the Toshakhana-2 case. The same day, the Lahore High Court rejected his pre-arrest bail pleas in cases linked to the 9 May 2023 unrest. Nov. 24, 2024: PTI launches nationwide rallies towards Islamabad demanding Khan’s release, freedom for detained party workers, and an inquiry into the alleged rigging of the 8 February elections. The Pakistani government has filed over 200 cases against Khan since his ouster in April 2022. He has been convicted in at least three cases, which include the Toshakhana case, the state secrets case, and the unlawful marriage case.

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, facing roughly 150 legal cases, has been in jail since August 2023, yet remains a strong favourite among his supporters. So how did Khan end up in prison? Here's is complete timeline of his cases.&nbsp;

Behind the bars, and in the headlines: The Imran Khan timeline you NEED to know

In a tragic incident, at least 55 people have been reported killed so far after a fire engulfed a high-rise building in Hong Kong on Wednesday (Nov 26). Around 274 people were reported still missing, and hundreds were left homeless in a single night. The Hong Kong government announced to establishment of an assistance fund for the Wang Fuk Court housing estate. The government will allocate 300 million Hong Kong dollars (about $38.5 million) in aid to affected residents.&nbsp;The city leader, John Lee, speaking in a press conference on Thursday (Nov 27), said that several additional measures have been laid out. The government will also cancel all the celebrity events and government officials will avoid participating in “unnecessary” public events, Lee said.&nbsp;Moreover, he also announced that each household affected by the fire will receive relief funds. “To help affected residents, we will hand out 10,000 Hong Kong dollars (about $1,200) to each household,” Lee said.&nbsp;Hong Kong has one of the world's most severe housing shortages&nbsp;Median home prices are 20 times higher than the annual household income of Hong Kongers. Amid the glitzy towers of the financial hub, most commoners can't afford a place to call home, depending instead on public housing. But there, the average waiting time for a public rental flat could be up to 5.5 years.&nbsp;‘Coffin homes’ with six square metres for a person: The poor face the brunt of the housing crisis&nbsp;Low-income, working poor and elderly populations end up living in overcrowded subdivided flats or SDUs that have only 65 square feet or 6 square metres of space per person. There were around 108,200 such subdivided flats or SDUs in Hong Kong as of 2021, housing over 220,000 people. Many of these flats lack proper ventilation or fire escapes. In many cases, toilets and bathrooms are shared by multiple families.&nbsp;The SDUs, also known as “coffin homes”, "cubicle apartments" or "cage homes," could be as small as 15 square feet. They are often stacked like bunks in wire-mesh enclosures, and notorious fire traps too, with narrow corridors blocking evacuation. Flammable materials like polystyrene are used in construction, and shared wiring overloads electricity circuits.

The Hong Kong government announced to establishment of an assistance fund for the Wang Fuk Court housing estate. The government will allocate 300 million Hong Kong dollars (about $38.5 million) in aid to affected residents.

In a tragic incident, at least 55 people have been reported killed so far after a fire engulfed a high-rise building in Hong Kong on Wednesday (Nov 26). Around 274 people were reported still missing, and hundreds were left homeless in a single night. The Hong Kong government announced to establishment of an assistance fund for the Wang Fuk Court housing estate. The government will allocate 300 million Hong Kong dollars (about $38.5 million) in aid to affected residents. The city leader, John Lee, speaking in a press conference on Thursday (Nov 27), said that several additional measures have been laid out. The government will also cancel all the celebrity events and government officials will avoid participating in “unnecessary” public events, Lee said. Moreover, he also announced that each household affected by the fire will receive relief funds. “To help affected residents, we will hand out 10,000 Hong Kong dollars (about $1,200) to each household,” Lee said. Hong Kong has one of the world's most severe housing shortages Median home prices are 20 times higher than the annual household income of Hong Kongers. Amid the glitzy towers of the financial hub, most commoners can't afford a place to call home, depending instead on public housing. But there, the average waiting time for a public rental flat could be up to 5.5 years. ‘Coffin homes’ with six square metres for a person: The poor face the brunt of the housing crisis Low-income, working poor and elderly populations end up living in overcrowded subdivided flats or SDUs that have only 65 square feet or 6 square metres of space per person. There were around 108,200 such subdivided flats or SDUs in Hong Kong as of 2021, housing over 220,000 people. Many of these flats lack proper ventilation or fire escapes. In many cases, toilets and bathrooms are shared by multiple families. The SDUs, also known as “coffin homes”, "cubicle apartments" or "cage homes," could be as small as 15 square feet. They are often stacked like bunks in wire-mesh enclosures, and notorious fire traps too, with narrow corridors blocking evacuation. Flammable materials like polystyrene are used in construction, and shared wiring overloads electricity circuits.

The Hong Kong government announced to establishment of an assistance fund for the Wang Fuk Court housing estate. The government will allocate 300 million Hong Kong dollars (about $38.5 million) in aid to affected residents.

‘$1,200 to each affected house, $38.5 million for residents’ aid’: Hong Kong govt after building fire kills 55, leaves hundreds homeless

Amid the alleged rumours around the health of the former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan, his political party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf &nbsp;(PTI), demanded an official response. The party urged the Shehbaz Sharif government to arrange an immediate meeting between Khan and his family. This came after repeated refusals by the authorities to allow Imran's sisters to meet him at Adiala jail, which resulted in speculation on the whereabouts of Khan.&nbsp;As per Pakistan's Dawn, the speculation around the health of the former PM intensified after multiple unverified claims on X on Khan's concerning health and even his death. The hashtag 'Where is Imran Khan?' also trended on the platform.&nbsp;The PTI said in a post on X that "rumours of a despicable nature" were being spread from "Afghan and Indian media, and foreign social media accounts" regarding Imran's condition.&nbsp;The party demanded that the "current government and the interior ministry immediately and clearly dismiss and clarify the rumour and immediately arrange a meeting between Imran and his family".&nbsp;"A formal and transparent statement should be issued on behalf of the state regarding the health, security and current status of Imran," the party added.

This came after repeated refusals by the authorities to allow Imran sisters to meet him at Adiala jail, which resulted in speculation on the whereabouts of Khan.

Amid the alleged rumours around the health of the former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan, his political party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), demanded an official response. The party urged the Shehbaz Sharif government to arrange an immediate meeting between Khan and his family. This came after repeated refusals by the authorities to allow Imran's sisters to meet him at Adiala jail, which resulted in speculation on the whereabouts of Khan. As per Pakistan's Dawn, the speculation around the health of the former PM intensified after multiple unverified claims on X on Khan's concerning health and even his death. The hashtag 'Where is Imran Khan?' also trended on the platform. The PTI said in a post on X that "rumours of a despicable nature" were being spread from "Afghan and Indian media, and foreign social media accounts" regarding Imran's condition. The party demanded that the "current government and the interior ministry immediately and clearly dismiss and clarify the rumour and immediately arrange a meeting between Imran and his family". "A formal and transparent statement should be issued on behalf of the state regarding the health, security and current status of Imran," the party added.

&nbsp;This came after repeated refusals by the authorities to allow Imran's sisters to meet him at Adiala jail, which resulted in speculation on the whereabouts of Khan.

‘Clarify the rumour’: Imran Khan’s party demands details on former Pakistan PM’s whereabouts from Shehbaz Sharif govt

A Russian court on Thursday sentenced eight people to life in prison over huge 2022 explosions that partially destroyed the Crimean bridge, an attack both Kyiv and Moscow said was organised by Ukraine's secret services. Five people were killed when the 19-kilometre (12-mile) Kerch road and rail bridge was hit by a truck bomb blast on October 8, 2022, eight months after Moscow launched its all-out offensive on Ukraine. Kyiv later claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it was aimed at hampering Moscow's logistics.&nbsp;The Crimean peninsula -- annexed by Russia in 2014 -- has been a key supply route for Russia's troops fighting in the south of Ukraine.&nbsp;"The defendants were found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment," Russia's southern military court in the city of Rostov-on-Don said on Telegram.&nbsp;The attack set ablaze seven oil tankers being transported by train and collapsed two sections of the highway, Russia said. The men were tried in a closed-door hearing at a military court.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-1-500-homes-destroyed-thousands-left-homeless-as-bangladesh-slum-fire-rages-for-16-hours-1764226617600">Over 1,500 homes destroyed, thousands left homeless as Bangladesh slum fire rages for 16 hours</a>&nbsp;The bridge is seen by both Ukraine and Russia as a hugely symbolic installation of Moscow's 2014 seizure of the Crimean peninsula.&nbsp;President Vladimir Putin personally inaugurated the bridge, which links Russia to Crimea, in 2018 -- even driving a truck across it.&nbsp;Moscow had maintained the crossing was safe despite the fighting, but it has been targeted repeatedly throughout the war.&nbsp;The men were charged with carrying out a "terrorist act" that caused death and illegally obtaining weapons as an organised group, the court said. Two were also charged with smuggling explosives.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.

The bridge is seen by both Ukraine and Russia as a hugely symbolic installation of Moscow's 2014 seizure of the Crimean peninsula.

A Russian court on Thursday sentenced eight people to life in prison over huge 2022 explosions that partially destroyed the Crimean bridge, an attack both Kyiv and Moscow said was organised by Ukraine's secret services. Five people were killed when the 19-kilometre (12-mile) Kerch road and rail bridge was hit by a truck bomb blast on October 8, 2022, eight months after Moscow launched its all-out offensive on Ukraine. Kyiv later claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it was aimed at hampering Moscow's logistics. The Crimean peninsula -- annexed by Russia in 2014 -- has been a key supply route for Russia's troops fighting in the south of Ukraine. "The defendants were found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment," Russia's southern military court in the city of Rostov-on-Don said on Telegram. The attack set ablaze seven oil tankers being transported by train and collapsed two sections of the highway, Russia said. The men were tried in a closed-door hearing at a military court. Also Read - Over 1,500 homes destroyed, thousands left homeless as Bangladesh slum fire rages for 16 hours The bridge is seen by both Ukraine and Russia as a hugely symbolic installation of Moscow's 2014 seizure of the Crimean peninsula. President Vladimir Putin personally inaugurated the bridge, which links Russia to Crimea, in 2018 -- even driving a truck across it. Moscow had maintained the crossing was safe despite the fighting, but it has been targeted repeatedly throughout the war. The men were charged with carrying out a "terrorist act" that caused death and illegally obtaining weapons as an organised group, the court said. Two were also charged with smuggling explosives. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The bridge is seen by both Ukraine and Russia as a hugely symbolic installation of Moscow's 2014 seizure of the Crimean peninsula.

Eight men sent to life sentences by Russia court for 2022 Crimea bridge blast

US President Donald Trump revealed his 28-point peace plan to end the war between Russia and Ukraine. As several European leaders pointed out that the plan was heavily biased for Russia, the American president later claimed it was not the final plan. Meanwhile, Russia confirmed that Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff will visit Moscow next week amid the efforts to bring both Kyiv and Moscow to the negotiation table. Amid all this, a leaked phone call transcript has shown Witkoff training Vladimir Putin's foreign affairs adviser, Yuri Ushakov, on how to crack a deal with Trump.&nbsp;As per the transcript of the October 14 call published by the news service and reported by Bloomberg, Witkoff advised Ushakov that Putin should call Trump to congratulate him on the Gaza peace deal. The special envoy then said that the Russian president should say that Russia supported Trump's Gaza deal. And then, he should say that he respects the US president as a "man of peace".&nbsp;“From that, it's going to be a really good call,” Witkoff said, according to the transcript published by Bloomberg.&nbsp;Later on, Trump was asked about Witkoff's advice in the call transcript. The American president said it was a “standard” negotiating procedure. “He's got to sell this to Ukraine. He's got to sell Ukraine to Russia,” Trump told reporters, “That's what a dealmaker does," he added.

As per the transcript of the October 14 call published by the news service, Witkoff advised Ushakov that Putin should call Trump to congratulate him on the Gaza peace deal. 

US President Donald Trump revealed his 28-point peace plan to end the war between Russia and Ukraine. As several European leaders pointed out that the plan was heavily biased for Russia, the American president later claimed it was not the final plan. Meanwhile, Russia confirmed that Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff will visit Moscow next week amid the efforts to bring both Kyiv and Moscow to the negotiation table. Amid all this, a leaked phone call transcript has shown Witkoff training Vladimir Putin's foreign affairs adviser, Yuri Ushakov, on how to crack a deal with Trump. As per the transcript of the October 14 call published by the news service and reported by Bloomberg, Witkoff advised Ushakov that Putin should call Trump to congratulate him on the Gaza peace deal. The special envoy then said that the Russian president should say that Russia supported Trump's Gaza deal. And then, he should say that he respects the US president as a "man of peace". “From that, it's going to be a really good call,” Witkoff said, according to the transcript published by Bloomberg. Later on, Trump was asked about Witkoff's advice in the call transcript. The American president said it was a “standard” negotiating procedure. “He's got to sell this to Ukraine. He's got to sell Ukraine to Russia,” Trump told reporters, “That's what a dealmaker does," he added.

As per the transcript of the October 14 call published by the news service, Witkoff advised Ushakov that Putin should call Trump to congratulate him on the Gaza peace deal.&nbsp;

'First congratulate him for Gaza deal, then...': In LEAKED call transcript, Witkoff reveals how to crack a deal with Trump

The Arctic Ocean's ice is melting faster than ever due to global warming, opening up more areas in the huge area to global competition for its untapped resources, including an estimated 13 per cent of the world's oil. The US Coast Guard commissioned its first new polar icebreaker ship in over 25 years this August, as part of an $8.6 billion push to expand its Arctic capabilities, with key rivals Russia and China in mind. In this context, here is a look at the Arctic region's resources, the contentious control of its territory, and the countries engaged in the scramble.<h2>What are the resources of the Arctic?</h2>The Arctic possibly contains up to 13 per cent of the world's undiscovered oil and roughly 30 per cent of global natural gas deposits.&nbsp;It is also home to mineral deposits, including rare earth elements critical for green tech and electric vehicles.&nbsp;Greenland and northern Scandinavia offer mining opportunities for iron ore and other strategic minerals.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-arctic-space-race-heats-up-china-u-s-europe-build-antenna-farms-in-the-far-north-1764097803450/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-arctic-space-race-heats-up-china-u-s-europe-build-antenna-farms-in-the-far-north-1764097803450/embed</a><h2>New shipping routes can drastically reduce global maritime trade costs</h2>Besides the Arctic's abundant and critical natural resources, the thawing of ice is slowly opening up more shipping routes, such as the Northern Sea Route along Russia’s Arctic coast and the Northwest Passage through Canada. When fully operational and commercialised, these routes can reduce transit times between Asia and Europe by up to 40 per cent and lower shipping costs by roughly 30 per cent.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/why-scientists-revive-40-000-year-old-ancient-virus-with-pandemic-potential-from-arctic-ice-1759812221224">Why?? Scientists revive 40,000-year-old ancient virus with 'pandemic potential' from Arctic ice</a><h2>Who controls the Arctic?</h2>The Arctic Ocean region, spanning approximately 14.5 million square kilometres, is loosely governed through a combination of national jurisdiction, international law, and cooperative bodies like the Arctic Council. Eight countries have coastlines along the Arctic Ocean: Canada, Denmark (via Greenland), Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, and the US (via Alaska). These countries are part of the Arctic Council, which focuses on non-security issues and environmental protection. China also claims to be a “near-Arctic state,” becoming an active new entrant in the race for the region's resources.The coastal states control their land, internal waters, and exclusive economic zones (EEZs) spanning 200 nautical miles.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-surprised-to-see-organism-alive-and-moving-inside-arctic-ocean-that-they-thought-was-dead-1757656476816">Scientists surprised to see organism 'alive and moving' inside Arctic Ocean that they thought was dead</a><h2>Race for more control of the Arctic via UN laws</h2>The scramble for the Arctic is evident from new claims by some countries to expand their rights over the continental shelf beyond the EEZ. They have filed petitions under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), with Russia and Norway receiving partial approvals. Canada, Denmark, and some others have their claims pending. The US has not ratified UNCLOS, but generally observes its provisions.The central Arctic Ocean remains international waters, open for navigation and fishing under UNCLOS.<h2>Which countries are interested in the Arctic?</h2>While Arctic coastal states naturally have the strongest claims and interests in resource development, shipping, and security, countries like the US, Russia, and China are competing to gain an upper hand. US President Donald Trump's remarks about wanting to buy Greenland should be seen in this context.<h2>China: A non-Arctic power operating in the waters</h2>Calling itself a “near-Arctic state,” China has expanded its research and commercial shipping activity in the region. The Asian power is testing new maritime routes and building icebreaker capacity in the Arctic.&nbsp;Countries and entities with observer status in the Arctic Council, including India, Japan, South Korea, Germany, and the European Union, have invested in scientific research, mining projects, and shipping infrastructure to gain a foothold in the region.<h2>Militarising the Arctic</h2>De facto enforcement of the Arctic Ocean is carried out by countries like the US using Coast Guard patrols to maintain presence and monitor foreign vessels. Russia maintains the largest military presence and extensive Arctic bases, asserting control over roughly half of the Arctic coastline.Canada and Norway also regulate shipping in their waters while pursuing resource extraction.In this context, the US commissioning of new icebreakers and plans to acquire more gain significance. The aim is to secure strategic influence, protect shipping routes, and gain access to mineral resources, particularly in Greenland.The days when the Arctic could become a conflict zone are not far away, given the current level of intensifying activity around the slowly unfreezing ocean.

The US has commissioned its first icebreaker in 25 years, as melting of Arctic ice opens up more shipping routes and scramble for untapped resources. China and Russia are also racing for dominance. 


The Arctic Ocean's ice is melting faster than ever due to global warming, opening up more areas in the huge area to global competition for its untapped resources, including an estimated 13 per cent of the world's oil. The US Coast Guard commissioned its first new polar icebreaker ship in over 25 years this August, as part of an $8.6 billion push to expand its Arctic capabilities, with key rivals Russia and China in mind. In this context, here is a look at the Arctic region's resources, the contentious control of its territory, and the countries engaged in the scramble. What are the resources of the Arctic? The Arctic possibly contains up to 13 per cent of the world's undiscovered oil and roughly 30 per cent of global natural gas deposits. It is also home to mineral deposits, including rare earth elements critical for green tech and electric vehicles. Greenland and northern Scandinavia offer mining opportunities for iron ore and other strategic minerals. https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-arctic-space-race-heats-up-china-u-s-europe-build-antenna-farms-in-the-far-north-1764097803450/embed New shipping routes can drastically reduce global maritime trade costs Besides the Arctic's abundant and critical natural resources, the thawing of ice is slowly opening up more shipping routes, such as the Northern Sea Route along Russia’s Arctic coast and the Northwest Passage through Canada. When fully operational and commercialised, these routes can reduce transit times between Asia and Europe by up to 40 per cent and lower shipping costs by roughly 30 per cent. Also read: Why?? Scientists revive 40,000-year-old ancient virus with 'pandemic potential' from Arctic ice Who controls the Arctic? The Arctic Ocean region, spanning approximately 14.5 million square kilometres, is loosely governed through a combination of national jurisdiction, international law, and cooperative bodies like the Arctic Council. Eight countries have coastlines along the Arctic Ocean: Canada, Denmark (via Greenland), Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, and the US (via Alaska). These countries are part of the Arctic Council, which focuses on non-security issues and environmental protection. China also claims to be a “near-Arctic state,” becoming an active new entrant in the race for the region's resources. The coastal states control their land, internal waters, and exclusive economic zones (EEZs) spanning 200 nautical miles. Also read: Scientists surprised to see organism 'alive and moving' inside Arctic Ocean that they thought was dead Race for more control of the Arctic via UN laws The scramble for the Arctic is evident from new claims by some countries to expand their rights over the continental shelf beyond the EEZ. They have filed petitions under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), with Russia and Norway receiving partial approvals. Canada, Denmark, and some others have their claims pending. The US has not ratified UNCLOS, but generally observes its provisions. The central Arctic Ocean remains international waters, open for navigation and fishing under UNCLOS. Which countries are interested in the Arctic? While Arctic coastal states naturally have the strongest claims and interests in resource development, shipping, and security, countries like the US, Russia, and China are competing to gain an upper hand. US President Donald Trump's remarks about wanting to buy Greenland should be seen in this context. China: A non-Arctic power operating in the waters Calling itself a “near-Arctic state,” China has expanded its research and commercial shipping activity in the region. The Asian power is testing new maritime routes and building icebreaker capacity in the Arctic. Countries and entities with observer status in the Arctic Council, including India, Japan, South Korea, Germany, and the European Union, have invested in scientific research, mining projects, and shipping infrastructure to gain a foothold in the region. Militarising the Arctic De facto enforcement of the Arctic Ocean is carried out by countries like the US using Coast Guard patrols to maintain presence and monitor foreign vessels. Russia maintains the largest military presence and extensive Arctic bases, asserting control over roughly half of the Arctic coastline. Canada and Norway also regulate shipping in their waters while pursuing resource extraction. In this context, the US commissioning of new icebreakers and plans to acquire more gain significance. The aim is to secure strategic influence, protect shipping routes, and gain access to mineral resources, particularly in Greenland. The days when the Arctic could become a conflict zone are not far away, given the current level of intensifying activity around the slowly unfreezing ocean.

The US has commissioned its first icebreaker in 25 years, as melting of Arctic ice opens up more shipping routes and scramble for untapped resources. China and Russia are also racing for dominance.

Humans are coming: Arctic resource race to intensify with first US icebreaker in 25 years - Why this scramble?

A female wild wolf from the central coast of British Columbia has been recorded in a viral video using a unique method to access a crab trap. This behaviour, marking the first documented instance of tool use by wolves, shows the animal pulling the trap from the ocean to consume the bait. The crab traps belong to the Heiltsuk Nation, an Indigenous group working to control the European green crab, an invasive species disrupting local ecosystems. This conservation initiative includes setting traps in shallow and deep water areas along the coast.<h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Incredible. This wolf sees a buoy out in deep water and recognizes it&#39;s attached to a crab trap filled with food as bait. She swims over to the buoy and pulls it to shore, knowing it&#39;ll drag the trap w/ bait out, too. Voila, free meal. Animals use tools, just like us. <a href="https://t.co/Sf55r8XS4g">pic.twitter.com/Sf55r8XS4g</a>&mdash; Wayne Hsiung (@waynehhsiung) <a href="https://twitter.com/waynehhsiung/status/1991249310944469088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Initially, researchers suspected that the damage to the traps might be the work of a bear or wolf, as it was believed these animals could not dive deep enough to access the traps. But after installing cameras to observe the traps, they were surprised to discover a wolf swimming to shore with a floating buoy in her mouth. She dropped the buoy on land, grasped the attached rope, and used it to pull the trap out of the water.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientist-warns-next-big-disaster-hidden-volcano-ethiopia-hayli-gubbi-1764228500671">World is not ready for its next big disaster, scientist warns - 'Nobody’s watching...'</a>&nbsp;Once the trap was in a shallow area, the wolf opened it and consumed the herring bait. According to Kyle Artelle, co-author of the study, the wolf's actions demonstrated clear problem-solving and planning. It was suggested that the wolf might have observed humans using similar traps or learned how to retrieve traps from shallower waters during low tides. The deliberate nature of the wolf's behavior indicates that this is not a random action, but a methodical approach to reaching her goal.&nbsp;&nbsp;Experts like Artelle emphasize that this could be a form of tool use, akin to human problem-solving. Future research will explore whether other wolves in the region might adopt this behavior and whether it could be passed down through generations. Marc Bekoff, a renowned animal behaviorist, noted that further studies would help determine if this is an isolated incident or the start of a new behavioral trend among wolves in the area.

WATCH | Wolf captured on camera for the first time using rope to retrieve crab-trap bait

A female wild wolf from the central coast of British Columbia has been recorded in a viral video using a unique method to access a crab trap. This behaviour, marking the first documented instance of tool use by wolves, shows the animal pulling the trap from the ocean to consume the bait. The crab traps belong to the Heiltsuk Nation, an Indigenous group working to control the European green crab, an invasive species disrupting local ecosystems. This conservation initiative includes setting traps in shallow and deep water areas along the coast. Watch the video here

A female wolf on British Columbia's coast has been filmed using tools to pull a crab trap from the ocean, making it the first recorded instance of tool use by wolves

Italian lawmakers have formally inaugurated a cross-party Parliamentary Friendship Group dedicated to the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), that shows Italy’s determination to play a leading role in the ambitious trade and infrastructure project. The new intergroup was launched in the Italian Chamber of Deputies (lower house of the Italian Parliament) under the chairmanship of Paolo Formentini, Vice-President of the Foreign Affairs Committee, and Antonio Giordano who serves&nbsp;in the Chamber.&nbsp;More than forty parliamentarians from across the political spectrum have already joined.Italy was among the founding signatories of IMEC when the memorandum of understanding was signed on the margins of the 2023 G20 Summit in New Delhi.&nbsp;&nbsp;The corridor aims to create rail, shipping, energy and digital links connecting India with the Gulf states and Europe, offering a shorter and potentially more secure alternative to routes dominated by China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Speaking at the inauguration, Senator Giulio Terzi di Sant’Agata, President of the Senate’s EU Affairs Committee and a former Foreign Minister, described the new body as an important "instrument for strengthening" ties between Rome and New Delhi.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read -<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-1-500-homes-destroyed-thousands-left-homeless-as-bangladesh-slum-fire-rages-for-16-hours-1764226617600"> Over 1,500 homes destroyed, thousands left homeless as Bangladesh slum fire rages for 16 hours</a>&nbsp;He said it “reaffirms the centrality of parliamentary diplomacy” in advancing major international initiatives.&nbsp;Terzi linked IMEC to the late Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s vision of the “confluence of the two seas”, the Indian and Pacific Oceans, adding that the corridor is now “materialising” and is complemented by the European Union’s Global Gateway strategy and Italy’s own Mattei Plan for cooperation with Africa and the Mediterranean. Another key politician, Deborah Bergamini highlighted Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani’s personal commitment, noting his forthcoming visit to India in December and a major IMEC-related conference planned for the northern port city of Trieste in spring 2026.&nbsp;“IMEC represents a decisive step in strengthening the Mediterranean’s role in global routes and offers a competitive alternative to the Belt and Road Initiative,” Formentini and Giordano said in a joint statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;They expressed hope that parliaments in other countries would establish similar groups. The launch event was attended by ambassadors from India, Israel, Egypt, Cyprus, Germany, France, the United States and Jordan. Cyprus, which takes over the rotating EU Presidency next month, pledged to give the corridor additional prominence during its six-month term.&nbsp;Cross-party support was evident. Senator Tiziana Rojc of the centre-left Democratic Party and Senator Marco Dreosto of the right-wing Lega both emphasised Trieste’s strategic position and its rail connections to twelve EU countries, arguing that the city should become IMEC’s principal European gateway.&nbsp;The Italian initiative follows a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi at last week’s G20 Summit in South Africa, and comes ahead of Deputy Prime Minister Tajani’s second trade mission to India this year.

The Italian initiative follows a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi at last week’s G20 Summit in South Africa, and comes ahead of Deputy Prime Minister Tajani’s second trade mission to India this year.

Italian lawmakers have formally inaugurated a cross-party Parliamentary Friendship Group dedicated to the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), that shows Italy’s determination to play a leading role in the ambitious trade and infrastructure project. The new intergroup was launched in the Italian Chamber of Deputies (lower house of the Italian Parliament) under the chairmanship of Paolo Formentini, Vice-President of the Foreign Affairs Committee, and Antonio Giordano who serves in the Chamber. More than forty parliamentarians from across the political spectrum have already joined. Italy was among the founding signatories of IMEC when the memorandum of understanding was signed on the margins of the 2023 G20 Summit in New Delhi. The corridor aims to create rail, shipping, energy and digital links connecting India with the Gulf states and Europe, offering a shorter and potentially more secure alternative to routes dominated by China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Speaking at the inauguration, Senator Giulio Terzi di Sant’Agata, President of the Senate’s EU Affairs Committee and a former Foreign Minister, described the new body as an important "instrument for strengthening" ties between Rome and New Delhi. Also Read - Over 1,500 homes destroyed, thousands left homeless as Bangladesh slum fire rages for 16 hours He said it “reaffirms the centrality of parliamentary diplomacy” in advancing major international initiatives. Terzi linked IMEC to the late Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s vision of the “confluence of the two seas”, the Indian and Pacific Oceans, adding that the corridor is now “materialising” and is complemented by the European Union’s Global Gateway strategy and Italy’s own Mattei Plan for cooperation with Africa and the Mediterranean. Another key politician, Deborah Bergamini highlighted Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani’s personal commitment, noting his forthcoming visit to India in December and a major IMEC-related conference planned for the northern port city of Trieste in spring 2026. “IMEC represents a decisive step in strengthening the Mediterranean’s role in global routes and offers a competitive alternative to the Belt and Road Initiative,” Formentini and Giordano said in a joint statement. They expressed hope that parliaments in other countries would establish similar groups. The launch event was attended by ambassadors from India, Israel, Egypt, Cyprus, Germany, France, the United States and Jordan. Cyprus, which takes over the rotating EU Presidency next month, pledged to give the corridor additional prominence during its six-month term. Cross-party support was evident. Senator Tiziana Rojc of the centre-left Democratic Party and Senator Marco Dreosto of the right-wing Lega both emphasised Trieste’s strategic position and its rail connections to twelve EU countries, arguing that the city should become IMEC’s principal European gateway. The Italian initiative follows a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi at last week’s G20 Summit in South Africa, and comes ahead of Deputy Prime Minister Tajani’s second trade mission to India this year.

The Italian initiative follows a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi at last week’s G20 Summit in South Africa, and comes ahead of Deputy Prime Minister Tajani’s second trade mission to India this year.

Italy launches Parliamentary group to boost India-Middle East-Europe corridor

At least 55 people have died in the Hong Kong apartment fire on Wednesday (Nov 26), with 275 others missing and hundreds left homeless overnight. The Wang Fuk Court building fire in Tai Po District is a stark reflection of Hong Kong's housing crisis, where skyrocketing prices make private accommodation impossible for local residents, who then depend on public housing and so-called 'coffin homes'.&nbsp;<h2>Hong Kong has one of the world's most severe housing shortages</h2>Median home prices are 20 times higher than the annual household income of Hong Kongers. Amid the glitzy towers of the financial hub, most commoners can't afford a place to call home, depending instead on public housing. But there, &nbsp;the average waiting time for a public rental flat in could be up to 5.5 years.&nbsp;<h2>‘Coffin homes’ with six square metres for a person: The poor face the brunt of the housing crisis</h2>Low-income, working poor and elderly populations end up living in overcrowded subdivided flats or SDUs that have only 65 square feet or 6 square metres of space per person. There were around 108,200 such subdivided flats or SDUs in Hong Kong as of 2021, housing over 220,000 people.&nbsp; Many of these flats lack proper ventilation or fire escapes. In many cases, toilets and bathrooms are shared by multiple families.The SDUs, also known as “coffin homes”, "cubicle apartments" or "cage homes," could be as small as 15 square feet. They are often stacked like bunks in wire-mesh enclosures, and notorious fire traps too, with narrow corridors blocking evacuation. Flammable materials like polystyrene are used in construction, and shared wiring overloads electricity circuits.<h2>Fire safety violations: A perennial problem in Hong Kong residential buildings</h2>According to government data, fire safety violations are found in more than 60 per cent of inspected buildings. Fire incidents in the past, like the 2017 Cheung Sha Wan blaze, killed residents trapped in these mazes.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-high-rise-fire-continues-to-burn-at-least-44-killed-hundreds-still-unaccounted-for-1764211027685">Hong Kong high-rise fire continues to burn; death toll rises to 55, hundreds still unaccounted for</a><h2>The Wang Fuk Court fire: A public housing estate from the 1980s</h2>Wednesday's fire took place not in a 'coffin home', but a government-run public housing estate. Still, it exemplifies the housing crisis and hazards across all low-income housing in the city.The Wang Fuk Court was built in 1983 as subsidised home-ownership units. It had some 4,800 residents, living in nearly 2,000 apartments across eight 31-storey towers.An estimated 36 per cent of the residents were aged over 65.&nbsp;The blaze started when the external bamboo scaffolding - that covered the entire estate - caught fire during renovation. The fire also brought to light the poor or deferred maintenance situation in these decades-old public housing buildings, strained by underfunding.Once the fire started, it went all the way up to the top of the towers, exacerbated by flammable foam boards on windows and non-compliant netting. The fire eventually spread to seven towers, trapping residents amid intense heat and smoke.The Wang Fuk Court fire was Hong Kong's deadliest fire since the Garley Building fire of 1996 that killed 41 people. The fire in 2008 at the Cornwall Court resulted in four deaths.&nbsp;<h2>Even coffin homes are unaffordable for some</h2>With coffin homes going on rent for up to HK$140 per square foot, even that is unaffordable for some. This makes nearly 45 per cent of Hong Kong residents dependent on public estates like Wang Fuk, which are overcrowded and ageing. According to reports, many of these public housing units lack modern water sprinklers or wide exits to facilitate escape in the event of a fire.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-high-rise-fire-four-blocks-under-control-operations-continue-in-others-1764228305747/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-high-rise-fire-four-blocks-under-control-operations-continue-in-others-1764228305747/embed</a><h2>A rapidly ageing population made evacuation difficult</h2>Hong Kong's rapidly ageing population, with nearly 25 aged over 65, is living in large numbers in public housing units. Given their reduced mobility, evacuations were difficult: many victims could not descend the stairs quickly enough.Among this deadly cocktail of factors is the slow progress in phasing out substandard housing units by 2049. According to media reports, only 47 per cent of Hong Kong's public housing targets were met since 2014, even as coffin homes mostly remain illegal and unregulated.

Hong Kong’s Wang Fuk Court apartments fire highlights severe housing shortages in the financial hub. The poor and elderly rely on unsafe public housing, or cramped coffin homes. The city’s low-income housing system is facing brunt of systemic neglect

At least 55 people have died in the Hong Kong apartment fire on Wednesday (Nov 26), with 275 others missing and hundreds left homeless overnight. The Wang Fuk Court building fire in Tai Po District is a stark reflection of Hong Kong's housing crisis, where skyrocketing prices make private accommodation impossible for local residents, who then depend on public housing and so-called 'coffin homes'. Hong Kong has one of the world's most severe housing shortages Median home prices are 20 times higher than the annual household income of Hong Kongers. Amid the glitzy towers of the financial hub, most commoners can't afford a place to call home, depending instead on public housing. But there, the average waiting time for a public rental flat in could be up to 5.5 years. ‘Coffin homes’ with six square metres for a person: The poor face the brunt of the housing crisis Low-income, working poor and elderly populations end up living in overcrowded subdivided flats or SDUs that have only 65 square feet or 6 square metres of space per person. There were around 108,200 such subdivided flats or SDUs in Hong Kong as of 2021, housing over 220,000 people. Many of these flats lack proper ventilation or fire escapes. In many cases, toilets and bathrooms are shared by multiple families. The SDUs, also known as “coffin homes”, "cubicle apartments" or "cage homes," could be as small as 15 square feet. They are often stacked like bunks in wire-mesh enclosures, and notorious fire traps too, with narrow corridors blocking evacuation. Flammable materials like polystyrene are used in construction, and shared wiring overloads electricity circuits. Fire safety violations: A perennial problem in Hong Kong residential buildings According to government data, fire safety violations are found in more than 60 per cent of inspected buildings. Fire incidents in the past, like the 2017 Cheung Sha Wan blaze, killed residents trapped in these mazes. Also read: Hong Kong high-rise fire continues to burn; death toll rises to 55, hundreds still unaccounted for The Wang Fuk Court fire: A public housing estate from the 1980s Wednesday's fire took place not in a 'coffin home', but a government-run public housing estate. Still, it exemplifies the housing crisis and hazards across all low-income housing in the city. The Wang Fuk Court was built in 1983 as subsidised home-ownership units. It had some 4,800 residents, living in nearly 2,000 apartments across eight 31-storey towers. An estimated 36 per cent of the residents were aged over 65. The blaze started when the external bamboo scaffolding - that covered the entire estate - caught fire during renovation. The fire also brought to light the poor or deferred maintenance situation in these decades-old public housing buildings, strained by underfunding. Once the fire started, it went all the way up to the top of the towers, exacerbated by flammable foam boards on windows and non-compliant netting. The fire eventually spread to seven towers, trapping residents amid intense heat and smoke. The Wang Fuk Court fire was Hong Kong's deadliest fire since the Garley Building fire of 1996 that killed 41 people. The fire in 2008 at the Cornwall Court resulted in four deaths. Even coffin homes are unaffordable for some With coffin homes going on rent for up to HK$140 per square foot, even that is unaffordable for some. This makes nearly 45 per cent of Hong Kong residents dependent on public estates like Wang Fuk, which are overcrowded and ageing. According to reports, many of these public housing units lack modern water sprinklers or wide exits to facilitate escape in the event of a fire. https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-high-rise-fire-four-blocks-under-control-operations-continue-in-others-1764228305747/embed A rapidly ageing population made evacuation difficult Hong Kong's rapidly ageing population, with nearly 25 aged over 65, is living in large numbers in public housing units. Given their reduced mobility, evacuations were difficult: many victims could not descend the stairs quickly enough. Among this deadly cocktail of factors is the slow progress in phasing out substandard housing units by 2049. According to media reports, only 47 per cent of Hong Kong's public housing targets were met since 2014, even as coffin homes mostly remain illegal and unregulated.

Hong Kong’s Wang Fuk Court apartments fire highlights severe housing shortages in the financial hub. The poor and elderly rely on unsafe public housing, or cramped coffin homes. The city’s low-income housing system is facing brunt of systemic neglect

'Coffin homes' to crammed public apartments: Hong Kong fire that left 55 dead brings focus on city's chronic housing crisis

&nbsp;Heavy rains triggered floods and landslides across Sri Lanka this week, claiming the lives of at least 33 people with 14 others missing, officials said on Thursday. In a statement released by the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) of Sri Lanka confirmed that most of the deaths took place in the central tea-growing district of Badulla, where 16 people were buried alive after mountain slopes crashed onto their homes overnight.&nbsp;Additionally, four others died similarly in the adjoining Nuwara Eliya district, and the remaining deaths were discovered somewhere else. Meanwhile, around 400 homes were damaged in mudslides, and more than 1,100 families moved to temporary shelters, according to a report by the news agency AFP.<h3>Rising water level in Sri Lanka</h3>The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) said river levels were rising across Sri Lanka and urged people in low-lying regions to move to safer ground. It noted that while the country is in its northeast monsoon period, the rainfall has intensified because of a depression to the island’s east. In response to the severe weather, the government of Sri Lanka halted final-year school exams nationwide for two days.&nbsp;Rainfall of more than 100 millimetres is expected across Sri Lanka, with northeastern areas likely to receive up to 250 millimetres on Thursday. The weather-related toll this week is the worst since June last year, when 26 people died in heavy rains. Another 17 people were killed in flooding and landslides in December.&nbsp;Sri Lanka relies on monsoon rains for irrigation and hydropower, but experts warn that climate change is making extreme flooding more frequent.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Disaster Management Centre and other regional authorities have been directed to take all required precautions, including early evacuations. Officials also requested the public to secure property, avoid flooded roads, and remain inside their houses for possible landslides, falling trees, and sudden surges in water levels.

Rainfall of more than 100 millimetres is expected across Sri Lanka, with northeastern areas likely to receive up to 250 millimetres on Thursday. The weather-related toll this week is the worst since June last year, when 26 people died in heavy rains.

Heavy rains triggered floods and landslides across Sri Lanka this week, claiming the lives of at least 33 people with 14 others missing, officials said on Thursday. In a statement released by the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) of Sri Lanka confirmed that most of the deaths took place in the central tea-growing district of Badulla, where 16 people were buried alive after mountain slopes crashed onto their homes overnight. Additionally, four others died similarly in the adjoining Nuwara Eliya district, and the remaining deaths were discovered somewhere else. Meanwhile, around 400 homes were damaged in mudslides, and more than 1,100 families moved to temporary shelters, according to a report by the news agency AFP. Rising water level in Sri Lanka The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) said river levels were rising across Sri Lanka and urged people in low-lying regions to move to safer ground. It noted that while the country is in its northeast monsoon period, the rainfall has intensified because of a depression to the island’s east. In response to the severe weather, the government of Sri Lanka halted final-year school exams nationwide for two days. Rainfall of more than 100 millimetres is expected across Sri Lanka, with northeastern areas likely to receive up to 250 millimetres on Thursday. The weather-related toll this week is the worst since June last year, when 26 people died in heavy rains. Another 17 people were killed in flooding and landslides in December. Sri Lanka relies on monsoon rains for irrigation and hydropower, but experts warn that climate change is making extreme flooding more frequent. Meanwhile, the Disaster Management Centre and other regional authorities have been directed to take all required precautions, including early evacuations. Officials also requested the public to secure property, avoid flooded roads, and remain inside their houses for possible landslides, falling trees, and sudden surges in water levels.

Rainfall of more than 100 millimetres is expected across Sri Lanka, with northeastern areas likely to receive up to 250 millimetres on Thursday. The weather-related toll this week is the worst since June last year, when 26 people died in heavy rains.

Sri Lanka floods, landslides kill at least 33; over dozens missing as heavy rains pound island — What next?

A massive fire swept through one of Dhaka’s biggest slums on Tuesday evening (Nov 25), destroying long rows of tin-roofed shanties and leaving thousands of people homeless. Officials said no deaths had been reported as of Wednesday (Nov 26). Residents who lost their homes were desperate to collect their valuables as they searched through the debris. The fire began in the Korail slum shortly after sunset on Tuesday and burned for nearly 16 hours before firefighters could control it, according to fire officer Rashed Bin Khalid.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lt. Col. Mohammad Tajul Islam Chowdhury, a senior fire service official, also said that around 1,500 homes were damaged or completely burned down due to the fire.&nbsp;&nbsp;One of Bangladesh’s largest and most crowded slums, Korail, is home to nearly 80,000 people and sits between the Gulshan and Banani areas. The slum is surrounded by high-rise apartments and office buildings.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-rahmanullah-lakanwal-the-man-who-allegedly-shot-at-us-national-guards-1764220587792">Who is Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the man who allegedly shot at US National Guards?</a>&nbsp;When the blaze broke out, flames and thick smoke filled the sky as residents ran with whatever belongings they could take and save.&nbsp;&nbsp;Fire Service official Talha Bin Zasim said at least 19 fire engines were sent to control the fire but heavy traffic and the slum’s narrow walkways slowed their work.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-s-riskiest-job-timeline-of-all-pak-pms-who-were-ousted-convicted-jailed-hanged-as-rumours-swirl-on-imran-khan-missing-death-rumours-1764222068991">World's riskiest job? All Pak PMs who were ousted, convicted, jailed, killed</a>&nbsp;“Heavy traffic slowed our arrival, and once inside, the narrow lanes forced us to leave the engines at a distance,” he said. Firefighters dragged long hoses through the cramped alleys and scrambled to secure enough water, battling for more than five hours before the flames were finally brought under control, said Talha Bin Zasim.&nbsp;Dhaka, a city of over 10 million people has many slums where rural migrants settle in search of work. Many move to the capital due to poverty or climate disasters and earn a living through low-wage jobs such as rickshaw, cleaning and household work.

One of Bangladesh’s largest and most crowded slums, Korail, is home to nearly 80,000 people and sits between the Gulshan and Banani areas. The slum is surrounded by high-rise apartments and office buildings.

A massive fire swept through one of Dhaka’s biggest slums on Tuesday evening (Nov 25), destroying long rows of tin-roofed shanties and leaving thousands of people homeless. Officials said no deaths had been reported as of Wednesday (Nov 26). Residents who lost their homes were desperate to collect their valuables as they searched through the debris. The fire began in the Korail slum shortly after sunset on Tuesday and burned for nearly 16 hours before firefighters could control it, according to fire officer Rashed Bin Khalid. Lt. Col. Mohammad Tajul Islam Chowdhury, a senior fire service official, also said that around 1,500 homes were damaged or completely burned down due to the fire. One of Bangladesh’s largest and most crowded slums, Korail, is home to nearly 80,000 people and sits between the Gulshan and Banani areas. The slum is surrounded by high-rise apartments and office buildings. Also Read - Who is Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the man who allegedly shot at US National Guards? When the blaze broke out, flames and thick smoke filled the sky as residents ran with whatever belongings they could take and save. Fire Service official Talha Bin Zasim said at least 19 fire engines were sent to control the fire but heavy traffic and the slum’s narrow walkways slowed their work. Also Read - World's riskiest job? All Pak PMs who were ousted, convicted, jailed, killed “Heavy traffic slowed our arrival, and once inside, the narrow lanes forced us to leave the engines at a distance,” he said. Firefighters dragged long hoses through the cramped alleys and scrambled to secure enough water, battling for more than five hours before the flames were finally brought under control, said Talha Bin Zasim. Dhaka, a city of over 10 million people has many slums where rural migrants settle in search of work. Many move to the capital due to poverty or climate disasters and earn a living through low-wage jobs such as rickshaw, cleaning and household work.

One of Bangladesh’s largest and most crowded slums, Korail, is home to nearly 80,000 people and sits between the Gulshan and Banani areas. The slum is surrounded by high-rise apartments and office buildings.

Over 1,500 homes destroyed, thousands left homeless as Bangladesh slum fire rages for 16 hours

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Italy launches Parliamentary group to boost India-Middle East-Europe corridor

Hong Kong fire: 55 deaths bring sharp focus on housing crisis for the poor

Sri Lanka floods, landslides kill 33; dozens missing as heavy rains intensify

Over 1,500 homes destroyed, thousands left homeless as BAN slum fire rages...