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Weather patterns across India are expected to experience major shifts over the next two weeks, due to active weather systems influencing different regions from January 9th to 15th. Watch in for more details!

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Jammu & Kashmir: PM Modi Inaugurates  ‘Engineering Marvel’ Z-Morh Tunnel | WION | World News

The 45-day Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, celebrated as the world's largest human gathering, commenced early Monday on Paush Purnima. For a holy dip, an immense wave of devotees flocked to the Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. Approximately 1.5 crore pilgrims from India and abroad are expected to participate under stringent security arrangements, marking the auspicious occasion with reverence and unity. Watch to know more!

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Tracing Origins Of World's Biggest And Oldest Festival | WION

All is not well in the Trump camp. The US president-elect's former chief strategist, Steven K. Bannon, has intensified his public attack against Elon Musk over his influence on the incoming administration.

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Outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's former ally and the leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP), Jagmeet Singh, shared a video on social media warning US President-elect Donald Trump over his remarks that Canada should become America's 51st state.
"I have a message for Donald Trump. Our country (Canada) is not for sale. Not now, not ever," Singh said in the video he posted on X.
He then said that Canadian people are proud of their country and will go to every extent to "fight like hell to defend it."
Singh highlighted his country's commitment to being a good neighbour, stating that Canada offered support to the United States during the devastating Los Angeles fires, which so far have claimed the lives of 24.
"Right now, with the forest fires ravaging homes, Canadian firefighters showed up. That is who we are. And we show up and support our neighbours."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5usdxyd-ctwusy3z-osyafm6r">
I have a message for Donald Trump. We're good neighbours. But, if you pick a fight with Canada - there will be a price to pay. <a href="https://t.co/o60c4qIyza">pic.twitter.com/o60c4qIyza</a>
&mdash; Jagmeet Singh (@theJagmeetSingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/theJagmeetSingh/status/1878535333329190963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
He then said if the US imposes tariffs on Canada, his country would retaliate.
"If Donald Trump thinks, if you think you can pick a fight with us, there will be a price to pay. I have committed that if Donald Trump imposes tariffs on us, we should respond with retaliatory tariffs in kind. I think that anyone running as Prime Minister should do the same," he said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trudeau-sounds-alarm-on-trumps-tariff-threats-51st-state-remark-diverted-attention-from-8613900">Also read: Trudeau sounds alarm on Trump&rsquo;s tariff threats: '51st state remark diverted attention from...'</a>
<h2>&lsquo;Give your head a shake!&rsquo;; Canada&rsquo;s former PM Chretien offers blunt advice to Trump</h2>
Earlier, former Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chretien said that Trump's comments were no longer "funny" and "humiliating".
Echoing this sentiment, Chretien wrote in an article published in The Globe and Mail newspaper that Canada would never consent to becoming part of the United States.
"To Donald Trump, from one old guy to another, give your head a shake!" Chretien said.
"What could make you think that Canadians would ever give up the best country in the world &mdash; and make no mistake that is what we are &mdash; to join the United States?," he questioned further.
"If you think that threatening and insulting us is going to win us over, you really don't know a thing about us," Chretien wrote in the article. "We may look easy-going, mild-mannered. But make no mistake, we have spine and toughness."&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending: Jagmeet Singh highlighted his country's commitment to being a good neighbour, stating that Canada offered support to the US during the devastating Los Angeles fires.

Outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's former ally and the leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP), Jagmeet Singh, shared a video on social media warning US President-elect Donald Trump over his remarks that Canada should become America's 51st state. "I have a message for Donald Trump. Our country (Canada) is not for sale. Not now, not ever," Singh said in the video he posted on X. He then said that Canadian people are proud of their country and will go to every extent to "fight like hell to defend it." Singh highlighted his country's commitment to being a good neighbour, stating that Canada offered support to the United States during the devastating Los Angeles fires, which so far have claimed the lives of 24. "Right now, with the forest fires ravaging homes, Canadian firefighters showed up. That is who we are. And we show up and support our neighbours." I have a message for Donald Trump. We're good neighbours. But, if you pick a fight with Canada - there will be a price to pay. pic.twitter.com/o60c4qIyza — Jagmeet Singh (@theJagmeetSingh) January 12, 2025 He then said if the US imposes tariffs on Canada, his country would retaliate. "If Donald Trump thinks, if you think you can pick a fight with us, there will be a price to pay. I have committed that if Donald Trump imposes tariffs on us, we should respond with retaliatory tariffs in kind. I think that anyone running as Prime Minister should do the same," he said. Also read: Trudeau sounds alarm on Trump’s tariff threats: '51st state remark diverted attention from...' ‘Give your head a shake!’; Canada’s former PM Chretien offers blunt advice to Trump Earlier, former Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chretien said that Trump's comments were no longer "funny" and "humiliating". Echoing this sentiment, Chretien wrote in an article published in The Globe and Mail newspaper that Canada would never consent to becoming part of the United States. "To Donald Trump, from one old guy to another, give your head a shake!" Chretien said. "What could make you think that Canadians would ever give up the best country in the world — and make no mistake that is what we are — to join the United States?," he questioned further. "If you think that threatening and insulting us is going to win us over, you really don't know a thing about us," Chretien wrote in the article. "We may look easy-going, mild-mannered. But make no mistake, we have spine and toughness." (With inputs from agencies)

'Canada not for sale, not now, not ever,' Ex-Trudeau ally Jagmeet Singh chides Trump

Nearly a week is left for the swearing-in ceremony of United States (US) President-elect Donald Trump, who won handsomely in the November 5 presidential election.&nbsp;
As the world awaits Trump to become President Trump, a craftsman's workshop in China is making statues of the 78-year-old Republican which show him sitting in divine contemplation, a report by the news agency AFP on Monday (Jan 13) said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lara-trump-calls-elon-musk-first-buddy-of-donald-trump-for-his-frequent-mar-a-lago-visits-8613089" rel="dofollow">Lara Trump calls Elon Musk 'First Buddy&rsquo; of Donald Trump for his frequent Mar-a-Lago visits</a>
Cross-legged with his eyes half-closed in a pose evoking the Buddha, this porcelain version of Trump is the work of designer and sculptor Hong Jinshi.
Hong originally designed the statues as a joke.&nbsp;
<h2>Statues first went viral in 2021&nbsp;</h2>
The statues first went viral in 2021 on the e-commerce platform Taobao. Depending on their size, the statues are priced between $140 and $2,700.&nbsp;
And ahead of Trump's January 20 swearing-in ceremony, the statues have become the talk of the town again.&nbsp;
Speaking to AFP, Hong, 47, said, "In the days after he won the election, there was a lot of interest."&nbsp;
"Politicians are normally so boring, while (Trump) is this massive online figure who often says fantastical things," Hong added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-sentenced-to-unconditional-discharge-in-hush-money-case-a-timeline-8608585" rel="dofollow">Trump hush money case: A timeline of events as US-President elect is sentenced to unconditional discharge</a>
Despite the renewed interest, Hong no longer sells his Trump statues on Chinese sites after they removed his listings&mdash;perhaps, he said, because they were deemed insulting to Buddhists.
Still, orders keep rolling in from tourists who visit Hong's workshop, as well as from friends and acquaintances.
<h2>A statue based on Elon Musk</h2>
Hong also recently began designing a similarly tongue-in-cheek effigy of another American luminary: Trump backer Elon Musk, who seems set to play a major role in his administration.
The statue casts the billionaire in the style of the Marvel superhero Iron Man, clad in a rippling suit of metal armour.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending: The statues of Donald Trump first went viral in 2021 on the e-commerce platform Taobao. Depending on their size, the statues are priced between $140 and $2,700. 

Nearly a week is left for the swearing-in ceremony of United States (US) President-elect Donald Trump, who won handsomely in the November 5 presidential election. As the world awaits Trump to become President Trump, a craftsman's workshop in China is making statues of the 78-year-old Republican which show him sitting in divine contemplation, a report by the news agency AFP on Monday (Jan 13) said. Also read | Lara Trump calls Elon Musk 'First Buddy’ of Donald Trump for his frequent Mar-a-Lago visits Cross-legged with his eyes half-closed in a pose evoking the Buddha, this porcelain version of Trump is the work of designer and sculptor Hong Jinshi. Hong originally designed the statues as a joke. Statues first went viral in 2021 The statues first went viral in 2021 on the e-commerce platform Taobao. Depending on their size, the statues are priced between $140 and $2,700. And ahead of Trump's January 20 swearing-in ceremony, the statues have become the talk of the town again. Speaking to AFP, Hong, 47, said, "In the days after he won the election, there was a lot of interest." "Politicians are normally so boring, while (Trump) is this massive online figure who often says fantastical things," Hong added. Also read | Trump hush money case: A timeline of events as US-President elect is sentenced to unconditional discharge Despite the renewed interest, Hong no longer sells his Trump statues on Chinese sites after they removed his listings—perhaps, he said, because they were deemed insulting to Buddhists. Still, orders keep rolling in from tourists who visit Hong's workshop, as well as from friends and acquaintances. A statue based on Elon Musk Hong also recently began designing a similarly tongue-in-cheek effigy of another American luminary: Trump backer Elon Musk, who seems set to play a major role in his administration. The statue casts the billionaire in the style of the Marvel superhero Iron Man, clad in a rippling suit of metal armour. (With inputs from agencies)

In a craftsman's workshop in China, a statue of US President-elect Trump sits in divine contemplation

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Naga Sadhus' Grand Entry At World's Biggest Gathering

A blame game has ignited over the California wildfires in the US, with President-elect Donald Trump once again criticizing California Governor Gavin Newsom for failing to control the fires, which are wreaking havoc in Los Angeles. 

California wildfires: Trump says Newsom has 'no idea how to put out the fires'

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Sangam Draws 60 Lakh Devotees As 45-day-event Begins Today | WION EXCLUSIVE

Jammu & Kashmir: PM Modi To Inaugurate ‘Engineering Marvel’ Z-Morh Tunnel | WION | World News

Check the live updates of Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 as the world's largest religious gathering welcomes thousands of devotees from across India and abroad.
Los Angeles wildfires claimed 24 lives as forecasters predict strong winds this week. Red flag warnings have been issued for severe fires.
Meanwhile, South Korean soldiers fighting in Russia's war against Ukraine have been ordered to kill themselves rather than being captured alive, according to a South Korean lawmaker.
In other news, former White House strategist Steve Bannon vows to take Elon Musk ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration.
Click on the headline to read more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-kumbh-mela-2025-live-updates-8613726" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 Live Updates: Festivities begin at Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/13/w4s8C4gnISZZRh7Uj1im.jpg" alt=" Thousands of devotees take a holy dip in Triveni Sangam - a scared confluence of rivers Ganga, Yamuna and 'mystical' Saraswati as today, January 13 - Paush Purnima marks the beginning of the 45-day-long Maha Kumbh Mela 2025. Photograph: (ANI) ">
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 returns to Prayagraj after 12 years, celebrating spirituality, mythology, and culture at the Triveni Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers meet. The 44-day event takes place from January 13 to February 26 and is special this year due to a rare celestial alignment of the Sun, Moon, Jupiter, and Saturn, occurring once every 144 years.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/los-angeles-wildfires-death-toll-rises-to-24-as-forecasters-warn-of-strong-winds-ahead-8614009" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Los Angeles wildfires: Death toll rises to 24 as forecasters warn of strong winds ahead</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/13/K053MwEwdJyWf1btbvsj.jpg" alt=" The costs of damages have been expected to be between $135 billion and $150 billion, as per the preliminary estimate by AccuWeather, making it possibly the costliest fire for the nation. Photograph: (AFP) ">
The death toll from Los Angeles wildfires has risen to 24 as forecasters warn strong winds could fuel the fire even further. At least 16 people were missing and officials are expecting the number to increase.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-soldiers-fighting-in-ukraine-told-to-kill-selves-before-capture-seoul-8613983" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">North Korea soldiers fighting in Ukraine told to kill selves before capture: Seoul</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/13/2zZ6WudTfnBW1dE8LmqZ.jpg" alt=" N. Korea soldiers fighting in Ukraine told to kill selves before capture: Seoul Photograph: (Reuters) ">
North Korean soldiers fighting in Russia's war against Ukraine have been told by Pyongyang to kill themselves rather than be captured alive, a South Korean lawmaker said Monday after a briefing from the country's spy agency.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/truly-evil-guy-trumps-former-advisor-steve-bannon-vows-to-take-elon-musk-down-before-inauguration-day-8613853" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Truly evil guy'; Trump&rsquo;s former advisor Steve Bannon vows to take Elon Musk down before inauguration day</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/13/USYEdZXvQ473Wpcy8Bdm.jpg" alt=" Steve Bannon and Elon Musk Photograph: (AFP) ">
The drama between the MAGA movement and Elon Musk is far from over. Now, former White House strategist Steve Bannon has declared war on Musk, making it a personal mission to take him down.
Watch | Bangladeshi government has streamlined the visa process for Pakistani nationals
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
The Bangladeshi government has streamlined the visa process for Pakistani nationals to enhance trade and economic ties between the two countries.<a href="https://twitter.com/ShivanChanana?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShivanChanana</a> brings you this report Watch more at <a href="https://t.co/dm7SyC0z2e">https://t.co/dm7SyC0z2e</a> <a href="https://t.co/DB2mlDlTcF">pic.twitter.com/DB2mlDlTcF</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1878669644434903153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;

World | Start your day informed with WION's morning news brief bringing you the latest headlines and insights. Stay updated with global news as you sip your morning coffee.

Check the live updates of Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 as the world's largest religious gathering welcomes thousands of devotees from across India and abroad. Los Angeles wildfires claimed 24 lives as forecasters predict strong winds this week. Red flag warnings have been issued for severe fires. Meanwhile, South Korean soldiers fighting in Russia's war against Ukraine have been ordered to kill themselves rather than being captured alive, according to a South Korean lawmaker. In other news, former White House strategist Steve Bannon vows to take Elon Musk ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration. Click on the headline to read more Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 Live Updates: Festivities begin at Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 returns to Prayagraj after 12 years, celebrating spirituality, mythology, and culture at the Triveni Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers meet. The 44-day event takes place from January 13 to February 26 and is special this year due to a rare celestial alignment of the Sun, Moon, Jupiter, and Saturn, occurring once every 144 years. Los Angeles wildfires: Death toll rises to 24 as forecasters warn of strong winds ahead The death toll from Los Angeles wildfires has risen to 24 as forecasters warn strong winds could fuel the fire even further. At least 16 people were missing and officials are expecting the number to increase. North Korea soldiers fighting in Ukraine told to kill selves before capture: Seoul North Korean soldiers fighting in Russia's war against Ukraine have been told by Pyongyang to kill themselves rather than be captured alive, a South Korean lawmaker said Monday after a briefing from the country's spy agency. 'Truly evil guy'; Trump’s former advisor Steve Bannon vows to take Elon Musk down before inauguration day The drama between the MAGA movement and Elon Musk is far from over. Now, former White House strategist Steve Bannon has declared war on Musk, making it a personal mission to take him down. Watch | Bangladeshi government has streamlined the visa process for Pakistani nationals The Bangladeshi government has streamlined the visa process for Pakistani nationals to enhance trade and economic ties between the two countries.@ShivanChanana brings you this report Watch more at https://t.co/dm7SyC0z2e pic.twitter.com/DB2mlDlTcF — WION (@WIONews) January 13, 2025

Morning news brief: Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 welcomes pilgrims; LA wildfire updates, and more

In a significant move, the interim government of Bangladesh has eased visa policy restrictions for Pakistani citizens, reflecting the improving bilateral relations between the two nations. Watch in for more detai

Bangladesh Moves Closer To Pakistan, Eases Visa Process | WION | World News

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Devotees Take 'Shahi Snan' As 45-Day-Long Religious Gathering Begins | WION

The death toll from Los Angeles wildfires has risen to 24 as forecasters warn strong winds could fuel the fire even further. At least 16 people were missing and officials are expecting the number to increase.&nbsp;
According to the statement by the Los Angeles County coroner&rsquo;s office on Sunday evening (Jan 12), eight deaths were recorded in the Palisades Fire while 16 others lost their lives in the Eaton Fire.
As firefighters struggle to contain the fire, more than 12,000 structures have been burned in Los Angeles since the first blaze started nearly a week ago on Tuesday (Jan 7). About 150,000 people in Los Angeles County remain under evacuation orders.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/la-wildfires-update-death-toll-expected-to-rise-red-flag-warning-issued-for-many-areas-8612935" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">LA wildfires update: International crews arrive to battle blaze; death toll at 16</a>
According to Cal Fire, the Palisades, Eaton, Kenneth and Hurst fires have spread across over 62 square miles (160 square kilometres), engulfing an area larger than San Francisco. So far, no cause of the wildfires has been determined.
<h2>Costliest disaster</h2>
The costs of damages have been expected to be between $135 billion and $150 billion, as per the preliminary estimate by AccuWeather, making it possibly the costliest fire for the nation.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/british-former-child-actor-dies-after-water-was-switched-off-during-los-angeles-wildfires-8613496" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Disabled child actor dies after water was 'switched off' during LA wildfires</a>
During an interview with NBC, California Governor Gavin Newsom said that the inferno could end up being the worst natural disaster in the history of the United States.
&ldquo;I think it will be in terms of just the costs associated with it, in terms of the scale and scope,&rdquo; he said.
<h2>Forecasters predict dangerous weather</h2>
Forecasters have warned of dangerous weather conditions in Los Angeles amid the raging fire as strong winds are expected to return this week.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-governor-newsom-deflects-blame-as-wildfires-claims-16-lives-8611706" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">California Governor Newsom deflects blame as wildfires claim 16 lives</a>
The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning for severe fires through Wednesday (Jan 15) with winds of 50 mph (80 kph) along with gusts in the mountain regions reaching 70 mph (113 kph). According to weather service meteorologist Rich Thompson, the most dangerous day for Los Angeles would be Tuesday (Jan 14).
&ldquo;You&rsquo;re going to have really strong gusty Santa Ana winds, a very dry atmosphere and still very dry brush, so we still have some very critical fire weather conditions out there,&rdquo; Thompson said, according to news agency AP.
<h2>Firefighters battle wildfires</h2>
In response to contain the fires, nearly 1,400 fire engines, 84 aircraft and more than 14,000 personnel, including newly arrived firefighters from Mexico, have been deployed.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-california-politicians-incompetent-over-la-wildfires-response-8612664" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Fires are still raging': Trump calls California politicians 'incompetent' over LA wildfires response</a>
Meanwhile, Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone has said that 70 additional water trucks have arrived to assist firefighters in battling the inferno as it spread due to the renewed gusts of winds.
&ldquo;We are prepared for the upcoming wind event,&rdquo; Marrone said. Fire retardant dropped by aircraft on Sunday (Jan 12) will act as a barrier along hillsides, officials said. The red-coloured fire retardant helps in preventing the spread of fire by covering the vegetation.
Experts have largely attributed Santa Anas for turning wildfires into devastating infernos that engulfed entire neighbourhoods.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | According to the statement by the Los Angeles County coroner’s office on Sunday evening (Jan 12), eight deaths were recorded in the Palisades Fire while 16 others lost their lives in the Eaton Fire.

The death toll from Los Angeles wildfires has risen to 24 as forecasters warn strong winds could fuel the fire even further. At least 16 people were missing and officials are expecting the number to increase. According to the statement by the Los Angeles County coroner’s office on Sunday evening (Jan 12), eight deaths were recorded in the Palisades Fire while 16 others lost their lives in the Eaton Fire. As firefighters struggle to contain the fire, more than 12,000 structures have been burned in Los Angeles since the first blaze started nearly a week ago on Tuesday (Jan 7). About 150,000 people in Los Angeles County remain under evacuation orders. Also read | LA wildfires update: International crews arrive to battle blaze; death toll at 16 According to Cal Fire, the Palisades, Eaton, Kenneth and Hurst fires have spread across over 62 square miles (160 square kilometres), engulfing an area larger than San Francisco. So far, no cause of the wildfires has been determined. Costliest disaster The costs of damages have been expected to be between $135 billion and $150 billion, as per the preliminary estimate by AccuWeather, making it possibly the costliest fire for the nation. Also read | Disabled child actor dies after water was 'switched off' during LA wildfires During an interview with NBC, California Governor Gavin Newsom said that the inferno could end up being the worst natural disaster in the history of the United States. “I think it will be in terms of just the costs associated with it, in terms of the scale and scope,” he said. Forecasters predict dangerous weather Forecasters have warned of dangerous weather conditions in Los Angeles amid the raging fire as strong winds are expected to return this week. Also read | California Governor Newsom deflects blame as wildfires claim 16 lives The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning for severe fires through Wednesday (Jan 15) with winds of 50 mph (80 kph) along with gusts in the mountain regions reaching 70 mph (113 kph). According to weather service meteorologist Rich Thompson, the most dangerous day for Los Angeles would be Tuesday (Jan 14). “You’re going to have really strong gusty Santa Ana winds, a very dry atmosphere and still very dry brush, so we still have some very critical fire weather conditions out there,” Thompson said, according to news agency AP. Firefighters battle wildfires In response to contain the fires, nearly 1,400 fire engines, 84 aircraft and more than 14,000 personnel, including newly arrived firefighters from Mexico, have been deployed. Also read | 'Fires are still raging': Trump calls California politicians 'incompetent' over LA wildfires response Meanwhile, Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone has said that 70 additional water trucks have arrived to assist firefighters in battling the inferno as it spread due to the renewed gusts of winds. “We are prepared for the upcoming wind event,” Marrone said. Fire retardant dropped by aircraft on Sunday (Jan 12) will act as a barrier along hillsides, officials said. The red-coloured fire retardant helps in preventing the spread of fire by covering the vegetation. Experts have largely attributed Santa Anas for turning wildfires into devastating infernos that engulfed entire neighbourhoods. (With inputs from agencies)

Los Angeles wildfires: Death toll rises to 24 as forecasters warn of strong winds ahead

North Korean soldiers fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine have been ordered by Pyongyang to take their own lives rather than get captured, according to a South Korean lawmaker who was briefed by the country's spy agency on Monday (Jan 13).
"Memos found on deceased soldiers indicate that the North Korean authorities pressured them to commit suicide or self-detonate before capture," lawmaker Lee Seong-kweun claimed in comments to reporters, citing information from the National Intelligence Service.
Over 300 North Korean soldiers have lost their lives and 2,700 were injured while fighting Russia's war against Ukraine.
"The deployment of North Korean troops to Russia has reportedly expanded to include the Kursk region, with estimates suggesting that casualties among North Korean forces have surpassed 3,000," Lee said after&nbsp;a briefing from Seoul's National Intelligence Service.
This includes "approximately 300 deaths and 2,700 injuries," Lee said.
Out of these, some of the soldiers were granted "amnesty" or expressed willingness to join North Korea's ruling Workers' Party, he added.
One soldier, who was facing imminent capture, cried out "General Kim Jong Un" before attempting to blow himself up with a grenade, said Lee.
The analysis carried out by NIS unveiled that the soldiers from North Korea displayed a "lack of understanding of modern warfare," and Russia is using them in a manner which is leading to their "high number of casualties," said the lawmaker.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-significantly-benefiting-from-its-troops-fighting-in-russia-war-us-at-unsc-8603767">Also read: North Korea 'significantly benefiting' from its troops fighting in Russia war: US at UNSC</a>
<h2>Zelensky proposes soldier swap with North Korea</h2>
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (Jan 12) proposed a soldier swap to North Korea, stating that he would hand them over to Pyongyang in exchange for Ukrainian POWs that were held by Russia.
Zelensky's proposal came after South Korea's National Intelligence Service confirmed the announcement Kyiv made the previous day where it claimed to have captured two North Korean soldiers.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5uqrzno-f5k3ea9c-qvhj7nim">
In addition to the first captured soldiers from North Korea, there will undoubtedly be more. It&rsquo;s only a matter of time before our troops manage to capture others. There should be no doubt left in the world that the Russian army is dependent on military assistance from North&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/4RyCfUoHoC">pic.twitter.com/4RyCfUoHoC</a>
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1878502443077509588?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
Ukraine on Saturday said that the North Korean troops had been injured fighting Ukrainian soldiers in Russia's Kursk region but no evidence of their nationality was provided to back this claim.
However, the NIS, as per news agency AFP, said that it had "confirmed that the Ukrainian military captured two North Korean soldiers on January 9 in the Kursk battlefield in Russia".
In a post on X on Sunday, Zelensky said: "Ukraine is ready to hand over Kim Jong Un's soldiers to him if he can organize their exchange for our warriors who are being held captive in Russia."
"For those North Korean soldiers who do not wish to return, there may be other options available," said Zelensky.
"In particular, those who express a desire to bring peace closer by spreading the truth about this war in Korean will be given that opportunity," he added.
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made regarding the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this ongoing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

North Korean soldiers fighting in Russia's war against Ukraine have been told by Pyongyang to kill themselves rather than be captured alive, a South Korean lawmaker said Monday after a briefing from the country's spy agency.

North Korean soldiers fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine have been ordered by Pyongyang to take their own lives rather than get captured, according to a South Korean lawmaker who was briefed by the country's spy agency on Monday (Jan 13). "Memos found on deceased soldiers indicate that the North Korean authorities pressured them to commit suicide or self-detonate before capture," lawmaker Lee Seong-kweun claimed in comments to reporters, citing information from the National Intelligence Service. Over 300 North Korean soldiers have lost their lives and 2,700 were injured while fighting Russia's war against Ukraine. "The deployment of North Korean troops to Russia has reportedly expanded to include the Kursk region, with estimates suggesting that casualties among North Korean forces have surpassed 3,000," Lee said after a briefing from Seoul's National Intelligence Service. This includes "approximately 300 deaths and 2,700 injuries," Lee said. Out of these, some of the soldiers were granted "amnesty" or expressed willingness to join North Korea's ruling Workers' Party, he added. One soldier, who was facing imminent capture, cried out "General Kim Jong Un" before attempting to blow himself up with a grenade, said Lee. The analysis carried out by NIS unveiled that the soldiers from North Korea displayed a "lack of understanding of modern warfare," and Russia is using them in a manner which is leading to their "high number of casualties," said the lawmaker. Also read: North Korea 'significantly benefiting' from its troops fighting in Russia war: US at UNSC Zelensky proposes soldier swap with North Korea Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (Jan 12) proposed a soldier swap to North Korea, stating that he would hand them over to Pyongyang in exchange for Ukrainian POWs that were held by Russia. Zelensky's proposal came after South Korea's National Intelligence Service confirmed the announcement Kyiv made the previous day where it claimed to have captured two North Korean soldiers. In addition to the first captured soldiers from North Korea, there will undoubtedly be more. It’s only a matter of time before our troops manage to capture others. There should be no doubt left in the world that the Russian army is dependent on military assistance from North… pic.twitter.com/4RyCfUoHoC — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) January 12, 2025 Ukraine on Saturday said that the North Korean troops had been injured fighting Ukrainian soldiers in Russia's Kursk region but no evidence of their nationality was provided to back this claim. However, the NIS, as per news agency AFP, said that it had "confirmed that the Ukrainian military captured two North Korean soldiers on January 9 in the Kursk battlefield in Russia". In a post on X on Sunday, Zelensky said: "Ukraine is ready to hand over Kim Jong Un's soldiers to him if he can organize their exchange for our warriors who are being held captive in Russia." "For those North Korean soldiers who do not wish to return, there may be other options available," said Zelensky. "In particular, those who express a desire to bring peace closer by spreading the truth about this war in Korean will be given that opportunity," he added. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made regarding the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this ongoing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea soldiers fighting in Ukraine were told to kill selves before capture: Seoul

Canada&rsquo;s outgoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that President-elect Donald Trump's comments about Canada becoming the "51st US state" were a distraction from the crucial issue, which was the harm that steep tariffs would cause to American consumers.&nbsp;
Trump had earlier threatened to impose 25 per cent tariffs on all Canadian imports.
&ldquo;The 51st state, that&rsquo;s not going to happen,&rdquo; Trudeau said in an interview with MSNBC. &ldquo;But people are talking about that, as opposed to talking about what impact 25 per cent&nbsp; tariffs (has) on steel and aluminium coming into the United States.&rdquo;
He further said, &ldquo;No American wants to pay 25 per cent more for electricity or oil and gas coming in from Canada. That&rsquo;s something I think people need to pay a little more attention to.&rdquo;
Trump previously said that if Canada merges with the United States, the taxes would go down and there would be no tariffs.
&ldquo;I know that as a successful negotiator, he likes to keep people off balance,&rdquo; Trudeau said when asked about Trump's threat to use economic force for the merger of the two countries.
&ldquo;He got elected to try and make life easier for all Americans, to support American workers,&rdquo; Trudeau said of Trump. &ldquo;These (tariffs) are things that are going to hurt them.&rdquo;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/give-your-head-a-shake-canadas-former-pm-chretien-offers-blunt-advice-to-trump-8612717">Also read: &lsquo;Give your head a shake!&rsquo;; Canada&rsquo;s former PM Chretien offers blunt advice to Trump</a>
<h2>Trump shares map of US which shows Canada as part of America</h2>
Trump on January 8 had shared a distorted map of the United States that showed Canada as part of America.
Sharing the post on his official social media platform, Truth Social, he captioned it as "Oh Canada!&rdquo;
His post came hours after he threatened to use "economic force" to merge Canada with the US.&nbsp;
While delivering remarks at Mar-a-Lago on January 7, Trump said, &ldquo;Economic force, because Canada and the United States, that would really be something. You get rid of that artificially drawn line, and you take a look at what that looks like. And it would also be much better for national security. You don't forget, we basically protect Canada."
"We don't need anything they have. We don't need their dairy products, we have more than they have. We don't need anything, so why are we losing $200 billion a year and more to protect Canada? And I said that to, as I called him, Governor Trudeau. I said, listen, what would happen if we didn't subsidize you if we didn't? Because we give them a lot of money, we help them," he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: US President-elect Donald Trump Trump previously said that if Canada merges with the United States, the taxes would go down and there would be no tariffs.

Canada’s outgoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that President-elect Donald Trump's comments about Canada becoming the "51st US state" were a distraction from the crucial issue, which was the harm that steep tariffs would cause to American consumers. Trump had earlier threatened to impose 25 per cent tariffs on all Canadian imports. “The 51st state, that’s not going to happen,” Trudeau said in an interview with MSNBC. “But people are talking about that, as opposed to talking about what impact 25 per cent tariffs (has) on steel and aluminium coming into the United States.” He further said, “No American wants to pay 25 per cent more for electricity or oil and gas coming in from Canada. That’s something I think people need to pay a little more attention to.” Trump previously said that if Canada merges with the United States, the taxes would go down and there would be no tariffs. “I know that as a successful negotiator, he likes to keep people off balance,” Trudeau said when asked about Trump's threat to use economic force for the merger of the two countries. “He got elected to try and make life easier for all Americans, to support American workers,” Trudeau said of Trump. “These (tariffs) are things that are going to hurt them.” Also read: ‘Give your head a shake!’; Canada’s former PM Chretien offers blunt advice to Trump Trump shares map of US which shows Canada as part of America Trump on January 8 had shared a distorted map of the United States that showed Canada as part of America. Sharing the post on his official social media platform, Truth Social, he captioned it as "Oh Canada!” His post came hours after he threatened to use "economic force" to merge Canada with the US. While delivering remarks at Mar-a-Lago on January 7, Trump said, “Economic force, because Canada and the United States, that would really be something. You get rid of that artificially drawn line, and you take a look at what that looks like. And it would also be much better for national security. You don't forget, we basically protect Canada." "We don't need anything they have. We don't need their dairy products, we have more than they have. We don't need anything, so why are we losing $200 billion a year and more to protect Canada? And I said that to, as I called him, Governor Trudeau. I said, listen, what would happen if we didn't subsidize you if we didn't? Because we give them a lot of money, we help them," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Trudeau sounds alarm on Trump’s tariff threats: '51st state remark diverted attention from...'

Top headlines of the hour:

- Croatia President Wins Another Term
- Maha Kumbh Begins In Prayagraj
- California Fire Threat Not Over
- Ukraine-Russia War Update

Croatia President Wins Another Term | Maha Kumbh Begins In Prayagraj | California Fire Threat | WION

The drama between the MAGA movement and Elon Musk is far from over. Now, former White House strategist Steve Bannon has declared war on Musk, making it a personal mission to take down the X chief from the Make America Great Again or MAGA movement.
Calling the Tesla CEO a "truly evil guy", Bannon declared that he would have Musk "run out of here by Inauguration Day".&nbsp;
&ldquo;He is a truly evil guy, a very bad guy. I made it my personal thing to take this guy down,&rdquo; Bannon said.
&ldquo;Before, because he put money in, I was prepared to tolerate it; I&rsquo;m not prepared to tolerate it anymore,&rdquo; he added.
He further denounced Musk for backing the H-1B visa stating that it was the "tech overlords" who use the immigration system to their advantage.
&ldquo;This thing of the H-1B visas, it&rsquo;s about the entire immigration system is gamed by the tech overlords, they use it to their advantage, the people are furious,&rdquo; Bannon said in an interview with Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera.
&ldquo;He will do anything to make sure that any one of his companies is protected or has a better deal or he makes more money,&rdquo; Bannon said. &ldquo;His aggregation of wealth, and then &mdash; through wealth &mdash; power: that&rsquo;s what he&rsquo;s focused on.&rdquo;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ted-chief-chris-anderson-raises-concerns-over-musks-recent-social-media-posts-says-miss-the-old-elon-8602096">Also read: TED chief Chris Anderson raises concerns over Musk's recent social media posts, says 'miss the old Elon'</a>
<h2>Musk vows to &lsquo;go to war&rsquo; to defend H-1B visa programme</h2>
In December, Musk backed the H-1B visa programme and said it was because of the scheme hat companies that made America stronger were built.
"The reason I&rsquo;m in America along with so many critical people who built SpaceX, Tesla and hundreds of other companies that made America strong is because of H1B," Musk wrote on X.
He then referred to one of the dialogues from &nbsp;Tom Cruise's character in the movie Tropic Thunder to slam the critics to bash him.
"Take a big step back and F--- YOURSELF in the face," Musk said.
The appointment of Sriram Krishnan as an AI advisor to US President-elect Donald Trump sparked the debate over the visa regime in the US.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-us-man-asks-indians-to-sign-petition-to-stop-spread-of-h1b-virus-8599073">Also read: VIDEO: US man asks Indians to sign petition to 'stop spread of H1B virus'</a>
<h2>'I've Always Liked H1-B', says Trump</h2>
Trump, in an interview with the New York Post in December, sided with Musk and praised the use of H-1B visas for bringing skilled foreign workers to the US, stating, &ldquo;I have always liked the visas, I have always been in favour of the visas. That&rsquo;s why we have them.&rdquo;&nbsp;
&ldquo;I have many H-1B visas on my properties. I&rsquo;ve been a believer in H-1B. I have used it many times. It&rsquo;s a great programme,&rdquo; Trump said, echoing the views of Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy, Sriram Krishnan, and David Sacks.
The issue of H-1B visas has caused division among Trump&rsquo;s supporters, especially after his appointment of Krishnan.
Critics argue the programme impacts American jobs, while others, including Elon Musk, have supported skilled immigration.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World news: The appointment of Sriram Krishnan as an AI advisor to US President-elect Donald Trump sparked the debate over the visa regime in the US.

The drama between the MAGA movement and Elon Musk is far from over. Now, former White House strategist Steve Bannon has declared war on Musk, making it a personal mission to take down the X chief from the Make America Great Again or MAGA movement. Calling the Tesla CEO a "truly evil guy", Bannon declared that he would have Musk "run out of here by Inauguration Day". “He is a truly evil guy, a very bad guy. I made it my personal thing to take this guy down,” Bannon said. “Before, because he put money in, I was prepared to tolerate it; I’m not prepared to tolerate it anymore,” he added. He further denounced Musk for backing the H-1B visa stating that it was the "tech overlords" who use the immigration system to their advantage. “This thing of the H-1B visas, it’s about the entire immigration system is gamed by the tech overlords, they use it to their advantage, the people are furious,” Bannon said in an interview with Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera. “He will do anything to make sure that any one of his companies is protected or has a better deal or he makes more money,” Bannon said. “His aggregation of wealth, and then — through wealth — power: that’s what he’s focused on.” Also read: TED chief Chris Anderson raises concerns over Musk's recent social media posts, says 'miss the old Elon' Musk vows to ‘go to war’ to defend H-1B visa programme In December, Musk backed the H-1B visa programme and said it was because of the scheme hat companies that made America stronger were built. "The reason I’m in America along with so many critical people who built SpaceX, Tesla and hundreds of other companies that made America strong is because of H1B," Musk wrote on X. He then referred to one of the dialogues from Tom Cruise's character in the movie Tropic Thunder to slam the critics to bash him. "Take a big step back and F--- YOURSELF in the face," Musk said. The appointment of Sriram Krishnan as an AI advisor to US President-elect Donald Trump sparked the debate over the visa regime in the US. Also read: VIDEO: US man asks Indians to sign petition to 'stop spread of H1B virus' 'I've Always Liked H1-B', says Trump Trump, in an interview with the New York Post in December, sided with Musk and praised the use of H-1B visas for bringing skilled foreign workers to the US, stating, “I have always liked the visas, I have always been in favour of the visas. That’s why we have them.” “I have many H-1B visas on my properties. I’ve been a believer in H-1B. I have used it many times. It’s a great programme,” Trump said, echoing the views of Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy, Sriram Krishnan, and David Sacks. The issue of H-1B visas has caused division among Trump’s supporters, especially after his appointment of Krishnan. Critics argue the programme impacts American jobs, while others, including Elon Musk, have supported skilled immigration. (With inputs from agencies)

'Truly evil guy': Trump’s ex-aide Steve Bannon vows to take Elon Musk down before inauguration day

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Devotees Take Holy Dip As 45-day Spiritual Event

The death toll from the wildfires ravaging the Los Angeles area has risen to 16 as crews battle to cut off the spreading blazes. Watch this report for more details!

California Wildfires: Death toll rises to 16 in Los Angeles fires

China has rejected claims labeling China's recent Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) as an "unknown virus". Watch this report for more details!

China calls HMPV cases 'Winter Occurrence'

Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai urged Muslim leaders on Sunday not to legitimise the Afghan Taliban government and to "show true leadership" over their assault on women's rights.
"Do not legitimise them," she said at a summit focused on girls' education in Islamic nations being held in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad.
"As Muslim leaders, now is the time to raise your voices, use your power. You can show true leadership. You can show true Islam," said 27-year-old Yousafzai.
The two-day conference has brought together ministers and education officials from dozens of Muslim-majority countries, backed by the Muslim World League (MWL).
Since sweeping back to power in 2021, the Taliban government has imposed an austere version of Islamic law that the United Nations has labelled "gender apartheid".
Afghanistan is the only country in the world where girls are banned from secondary school and university.&nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/say-no-to-scholz-musk-declares-as-germany-decries-election-meddling-8613134">&lsquo;Say NO to Scholz,&rsquo; Musk declares as Germany decries election meddling</a>
Delegates from Afghanistan's Taliban government did not attend the event despite being invited, Pakistan Education Minister Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui told AFP on Saturday.
"Simply put, the Taliban do not see women as human beings," Yousafzai told the conference. "They cloak their crimes in cultural and religious justification."
Muhammad al-Issa, a Saudi cleric and MWL secretary general, on Saturday told the summit that "those who say that girls' education is un-Islamic are wrong".
Yousafzai also highlighted the impact of wars in Yemen, Sudan, and Gaza on schooling.
"In Gaza, Israel has decimated the entire education system," she said. "I will continue to call out Israel's violations of international law and human rights."
<h2>Taliban engagement</h2>
Pakistan's state PTV channel censored a portion of her speech that alluded to a mass deportation scheme by Islamabad launched in 2023 that has seen hundreds of thousands of Afghan nationals leave under threat of arrest.&nbsp;
"I cannot imagine an Afghan girl or an Afghan woman being forced back into the system that denies her future," she told the conference in remarks cut from the air.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-tells-who-shouldnt-be-pardoned-as-fate-of-jan-6-rioters-hangs-in-balance-8612830">JD Vance tells &lsquo;who shouldn&rsquo;t be pardoned&rsquo; as fate of Jan 6 rioters hangs in balance</a>
Yousafzai was shot in the face by the Pakistani Taliban when she was a 15-year-old schoolgirl in 2012, amid her campaigning for female education rights.
Her activism earned her the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014, and she has since become a global advocate for women's and girls' education rights.
While there is outcry in much of the international community over the Taliban government curbs, nations are divided over how to engage with Kabul's rulers on the issue.
Some countries argue they should be frozen out of the diplomatic community until they backtrack, while others prefer engagement to coax them into a U-turn.
No country has officially recognised the Taliban authorities, but several regional governments have engaged on the topics of trade and security.&nbsp;
There is little evidence that broadsides from the international community over the Taliban government's treatment of women are having any impact on their position.
Yousafzai's father, Ziauddin Yousafzai, who pushed against cultural norms for his daughter to go to school in Pakistan and co-founded her Malala Fund charity, on Saturday told AFP he had not seen "any serious step or serious action from the Muslim world" on the cause of girls' education in Afghanistan.&nbsp;
Roza Otunbayeva, head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, said leaders of Islamic countries should offer direct help to Afghan girls.
"I really call on all these ministers... who came from all over the world, to offer scholarships, to have online education, to have all sorts of education for them," she told a panel.
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.

World | South Asia | Afghanistan: "Do not legitimise them," she said at a summit focused on girls' education in Islamic nations being held in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad.

Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai urged Muslim leaders on Sunday not to legitimise the Afghan Taliban government and to "show true leadership" over their assault on women's rights. "Do not legitimise them," she said at a summit focused on girls' education in Islamic nations being held in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad. "As Muslim leaders, now is the time to raise your voices, use your power. You can show true leadership. You can show true Islam," said 27-year-old Yousafzai. The two-day conference has brought together ministers and education officials from dozens of Muslim-majority countries, backed by the Muslim World League (MWL). Since sweeping back to power in 2021, the Taliban government has imposed an austere version of Islamic law that the United Nations has labelled "gender apartheid". Afghanistan is the only country in the world where girls are banned from secondary school and university. Also Read | ‘Say NO to Scholz,’ Musk declares as Germany decries election meddling Delegates from Afghanistan's Taliban government did not attend the event despite being invited, Pakistan Education Minister Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui told AFP on Saturday. "Simply put, the Taliban do not see women as human beings," Yousafzai told the conference. "They cloak their crimes in cultural and religious justification." Muhammad al-Issa, a Saudi cleric and MWL secretary general, on Saturday told the summit that "those who say that girls' education is un-Islamic are wrong". Yousafzai also highlighted the impact of wars in Yemen, Sudan, and Gaza on schooling. "In Gaza, Israel has decimated the entire education system," she said. "I will continue to call out Israel's violations of international law and human rights." Taliban engagement Pakistan's state PTV channel censored a portion of her speech that alluded to a mass deportation scheme by Islamabad launched in 2023 that has seen hundreds of thousands of Afghan nationals leave under threat of arrest. "I cannot imagine an Afghan girl or an Afghan woman being forced back into the system that denies her future," she told the conference in remarks cut from the air. Also Read | JD Vance tells ‘who shouldn’t be pardoned’ as fate of Jan 6 rioters hangs in balance Yousafzai was shot in the face by the Pakistani Taliban when she was a 15-year-old schoolgirl in 2012, amid her campaigning for female education rights. Her activism earned her the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014, and she has since become a global advocate for women's and girls' education rights. While there is outcry in much of the international community over the Taliban government curbs, nations are divided over how to engage with Kabul's rulers on the issue. Some countries argue they should be frozen out of the diplomatic community until they backtrack, while others prefer engagement to coax them into a U-turn. No country has officially recognised the Taliban authorities, but several regional governments have engaged on the topics of trade and security. There is little evidence that broadsides from the international community over the Taliban government's treatment of women are having any impact on their position. Yousafzai's father, Ziauddin Yousafzai, who pushed against cultural norms for his daughter to go to school in Pakistan and co-founded her Malala Fund charity, on Saturday told AFP he had not seen "any serious step or serious action from the Muslim world" on the cause of girls' education in Afghanistan. Roza Otunbayeva, head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, said leaders of Islamic countries should offer direct help to Afghan girls. "I really call on all these ministers... who came from all over the world, to offer scholarships, to have online education, to have all sorts of education for them," she told a panel. 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.

Malala Yousafzai calls on Muslim leaders to stand against Taliban, defend women’s rights

Japan and American troops conducted the first Paratrooper Exercise of 2025.

First Japan-US paratrooper exercise of 2025

The death toll in raging wildfires in Los Angeles, California rose to 16 on Sunday. The National Weather Service said that the next few days would prove critical to the firefighting effort, with dry weather and strong winds expected to continue.
At least five people were killed today in the Himalayan Indian state of Uttarakhand after a bus fell into a 100-metre-deep gorge. The bus reportedly lost control, leading to the accident that left 17 people injured.
Elon Musk today went all out against German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and declared 'Say No to Scholz' on X, urging all Germans to abandon him and instead support far-right AfD party.&nbsp;
Click on the headlines to read more.
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The death toll due to the ravaging wildfires in Los Angeles (LA) has climbed to 16, and more fatalities are expected.
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Five people have died in the northern Himalayan Indian state of Uttarakhand after their bus rolled 100 metres down a hill in Pauri Garhwal district.
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In another sign of US billionaire Elon Musk&rsquo;s growing political interference in Europe, the Tesla boss urged all German citizens to &ldquo;say no" to Chancellor Olaf Scholz ahead of crucial snap legislative polls.
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The incoming US Vice President JD Vance reiterated on Saturday (Jan 11) President-elect Donald Trump&rsquo;s promise to pardon Jan 6 Capitol riot protesters, but added those who were involved in violence should &ldquo;obviously&rdquo; not receive any relief.&nbsp;
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The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday (Jan 9) accused the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Delhi of aiding Rohingyas by adding them to the voters list of Delhi and attempting to change the demography of the city.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/radhika-gupta-anand-mahindra-adar-poonawalla-90-hour-workweek-call-8613275" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;I love staring at my wife,&rsquo; How top Indian biz tycoons are reacting to 90-hour workweek call</a> 
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/12/Xt888BMlKr41k4KYZpJ4.jpg" alt=" Anand Mahindra (left) and Adar Poonawalla (Right) Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Some of the top Indian corporate titans have locked horns amid raging debate over a healthy work-life balance. The row started when Larsen &amp; Toubro (L&amp;T) Chairman SN Subrahmanyan recommended a 90-hour workweek, including working Sundays.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anita-anand-indian-origin-lawmaker-drops-out-of-canada-pm-race-8613332" rel="dofollow">Anita Anand, Indian-origin lawmaker, drops out of Canada PM race</a> 
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/07/sx1h6nqa0yO3JS0iF3sG.jpg" alt=" File photo of Minister of Transport and Internal Trade Anita Anand. Photograph: (AFP) ">
Anita Anand has bowed out of Canada's prime ministerial race and announced that she won't seek re-election to parliament either.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/switzerland-donald-trump-vladimir-putin-peace-talks-8612699" rel="dofollow">Switzerland willing to host potential Trump-Putin peace talks: Reports</a> 
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/10/d8ff3FsGMIAKs7754ZMn.jpg" alt=" Russia's President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump attend a meeting on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan June 28, 2019 Photograph: (Reuters) ">
Switzerland has reportedly shown its willingness to host potential talks between US President-elect Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin if any such request emerges.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-start-date-march-23-says-bcci-vice-president-rajiv-shukla-8612858" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025 set to begin on March 21, Final on THIS date</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/10/21/461399-mixcollage-19-sep-2024-09-45-am-2431.jpg" alt=" IPL 2025 set to begin on March 21, Final on THIS date">
The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025</a> is set to start on March 21, instead of the earlier proposed date of March 14. The development was confirmed by the Board on Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), as reported by news agency PTI.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/paris-hilton-to-mandy-moore-all-the-celebrities-who-have-lost-homes-in-the-la-fire-8613008" rel="dofollow">Paris Hilton to Mandy Moore: All the celebrities who have lost homes in the LA fire</a> 
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x960/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/12/photo-1.png" alt="News Gallery">
Several celebrities, including Mel Gibson, Paris Hilton, and Anthony Hopkins, have lost their homes in the LA fires. Take a look.
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Here are the top 10 stories from across the world.

The death toll in raging wildfires in Los Angeles, California rose to 16 on Sunday. The National Weather Service said that the next few days would prove critical to the firefighting effort, with dry weather and strong winds expected to continue. At least five people were killed today in the Himalayan Indian state of Uttarakhand after a bus fell into a 100-metre-deep gorge. The bus reportedly lost control, leading to the accident that left 17 people injured. Elon Musk today went all out against German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and declared 'Say No to Scholz' on X, urging all Germans to abandon him and instead support far-right AfD party. Click on the headlines to read more. LA wildfires update: International crews arrive to battle blaze; death toll at 16 The death toll due to the ravaging wildfires in Los Angeles (LA) has climbed to 16, and more fatalities are expected. India: Five dead, 17 injured as bus rolls down hill in Uttarakhand Five people have died in the northern Himalayan Indian state of Uttarakhand after their bus rolled 100 metres down a hill in Pauri Garhwal district. ‘Say NO to Scholz,’ Musk declares as Germany decries election meddling In another sign of US billionaire Elon Musk’s growing political interference in Europe, the Tesla boss urged all German citizens to “say no" to Chancellor Olaf Scholz ahead of crucial snap legislative polls. JD Vance tells ‘who shouldn’t be pardoned’ as fate of Jan 6 rioters hangs in balance The incoming US Vice President JD Vance reiterated on Saturday (Jan 11) President-elect Donald Trump’s promise to pardon Jan 6 Capitol riot protesters, but added those who were involved in violence should “obviously” not receive any relief. Delhi polls: BJP's Kapil Mishra accuses AAP of aiding Rohingyas by adding them to voters' list The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday (Jan 9) accused the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Delhi of aiding Rohingyas by adding them to the voters list of Delhi and attempting to change the demography of the city. ‘I love staring at my wife,’ How top Indian biz tycoons are reacting to 90-hour workweek call Some of the top Indian corporate titans have locked horns amid raging debate over a healthy work-life balance. The row started when Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Chairman SN Subrahmanyan recommended a 90-hour workweek, including working Sundays. Anita Anand, Indian-origin lawmaker, drops out of Canada PM race Anita Anand has bowed out of Canada's prime ministerial race and announced that she won't seek re-election to parliament either. Switzerland willing to host potential Trump-Putin peace talks: Reports Switzerland has reportedly shown its willingness to host potential talks between US President-elect Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin if any such request emerges. IPL 2025 set to begin on March 21, Final on THIS date The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to start on March 21, instead of the earlier proposed date of March 14. The development was confirmed by the Board on Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), as reported by news agency PTI. Paris Hilton to Mandy Moore: All the celebrities who have lost homes in the LA fire Several celebrities, including Mel Gibson, Paris Hilton, and Anthony Hopkins, have lost their homes in the LA fires. Take a look.

Top 10 world news: LA wildfires updates; five killed in Uttarakhand bus tragedy, and more

Saudi Arabia called for the lifting of sanctions on Syria after meetings with top diplomats from the Middle East and Europe. Watch this report for more details!

Saudi Arabia calls for sanctions relief on Syria after diplomatic talks

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