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A fast-spreading wildfire is currently raging through Los Angeles and parts of California, causing widespread destruction. Thousands have been evacuated as the blaze continues to grow, posing serious threats to communities and wildlife in the region.

Los Angeles wildfire burns out of control across California

A 53-year-old South African attorney, Prelyn Mohanlall, who was banned from practicing law, was arrested on Tuesday (Jan 7) for scamming 17 couples. She took large sums of money from them for the same wedding venue she had no connection with. She was tracked by a private security company, Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA), through their Facebook page. Her lawyer, Chris Gounden, reached out to RUSA asking to pay back the victims who can show evidence of payments.&nbsp;
Prelyn&rsquo;s scam began when she convinced couples to pay large sums in advance for wedding venue bookings, only for them to discover that the venues were nonexistent or unsuitable. On their wedding day, the couples arrived to find empty locations with no electricity or water, unaware that their special day had turned into a nightmare.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnamese-billionaire-sentenced-to-death-in-in-12-billion-fraud-case-710131" rel="dofollow">Female billionaire sentenced to death for multi-billion dollar fraud in Vietnam</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Timeline of events: How RUSA tracked the fraudster</h2>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
December 2023: The first case of Mohanlall&rsquo;s scam was reported when a couple hired Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) to track her down.
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
January 2024: RUSA&rsquo;s investigation revealed that Mohanlall had scammed 17 couples from various provinces, defrauding them of their hard-earned money.
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
January 2024: After a detailed investigation, RUSA tracked Mohanlall and arrested her on Tuesday.
</li>
</ul>
One of the victims sharing how the ordeal affected their wedding said, "What she 'stole' from us drastically impacted our planning". He explained that he and his fianc&eacute;e had to cancel their wedding and start saving again, turning their dream event into a nightmare.
<blockquote cite="https://graph.facebook.com/100064313064388/posts/1024553653031727/" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore publive-iframes-block publive-Facebook-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5ozaxn8-dtxjzje2-pg00eey0">
Wedding Venue Scammer Arrested For Fraud: Boksburg - Gauteng A 53 year old woman who scammed seventeen (17) couples...
Posted by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ReactionUnitSouthAfrica">Reaction Unit South Africa</a> on&nbsp;<a href="https://graph.facebook.com/100064313064388/posts/1024553653031727/">Tuesday, January 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2 dir="ltr">Past criminal history</h2>
The investigations unveiled that Preylnn was involved in other frauds as well and had a criminal history of more than two decades, including being disbarred as a criminal attorney by the Law Society for stealing from a client&rsquo;s trust fund account. The Boksburg North police reported that she was being sought for a defrauding case of a car dealership of 200,000 South African Rand (R 2,00,000, Rs 9,07,730) and another couple of 26,000 South African Rand (R 26,000, Rs 1,18,004).&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/convicted-killer-alex-murdaugh-receives-40-year-sentence-and-9mn-restitution-for-financial-fraud-706704" rel="dofollow">Convicted killer Alex Murdaugh receives 40-year sentence and $9 million restitution for financial fraud</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Mohanlall&rsquo;s defence: Financial struggles amid debt</h2>
In an interview, Preyln said that her business struggled financially, particularly after her partners left and many weddings were cancelled. "It's not a scam, and I am not a scammer. My company went through so much," she said, accepting that she owed nine couples around 60,000 South African Rand (Rs 2,72,319) and promising to pay them back.&nbsp;
While efforts are underway to compensate the victims, Mohanlall's court date will determine whether her promises to repay the defrauded couples will have an impact on her sentencing.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: What she 'stole' from us drastically impacted our planning," said the victim. Victim explained that he and his fiancée had to cancel their wedding and start saving again. 

A 53-year-old South African attorney, Prelyn Mohanlall, who was banned from practicing law, was arrested on Tuesday (Jan 7) for scamming 17 couples. She took large sums of money from them for the same wedding venue she had no connection with. She was tracked by a private security company, Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA), through their Facebook page. Her lawyer, Chris Gounden, reached out to RUSA asking to pay back the victims who can show evidence of payments. Prelyn’s scam began when she convinced couples to pay large sums in advance for wedding venue bookings, only for them to discover that the venues were nonexistent or unsuitable. On their wedding day, the couples arrived to find empty locations with no electricity or water, unaware that their special day had turned into a nightmare. Also read: Female billionaire sentenced to death for multi-billion dollar fraud in Vietnam Timeline of events: How RUSA tracked the fraudster December 2023: The first case of Mohanlall’s scam was reported when a couple hired Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) to track her down. January 2024: RUSA’s investigation revealed that Mohanlall had scammed 17 couples from various provinces, defrauding them of their hard-earned money. January 2024: After a detailed investigation, RUSA tracked Mohanlall and arrested her on Tuesday. One of the victims sharing how the ordeal affected their wedding said, "What she 'stole' from us drastically impacted our planning". He explained that he and his fiancée had to cancel their wedding and start saving again, turning their dream event into a nightmare. Wedding Venue Scammer Arrested For Fraud: Boksburg - Gauteng A 53 year old woman who scammed seventeen (17) couples... Posted by Reaction Unit South Africa on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 Past criminal history The investigations unveiled that Preylnn was involved in other frauds as well and had a criminal history of more than two decades, including being disbarred as a criminal attorney by the Law Society for stealing from a client’s trust fund account. The Boksburg North police reported that she was being sought for a defrauding case of a car dealership of 200,000 South African Rand (R 2,00,000, Rs 9,07,730) and another couple of 26,000 South African Rand (R 26,000, Rs 1,18,004). Also Read: Convicted killer Alex Murdaugh receives 40-year sentence and $9 million restitution for financial fraud Mohanlall’s defence: Financial struggles amid debt In an interview, Preyln said that her business struggled financially, particularly after her partners left and many weddings were cancelled. "It's not a scam, and I am not a scammer. My company went through so much," she said, accepting that she owed nine couples around 60,000 South African Rand (Rs 2,72,319) and promising to pay them back. While efforts are underway to compensate the victims, Mohanlall's court date will determine whether her promises to repay the defrauded couples will have an impact on her sentencing. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian origin woman arrested for scamming couples in South Africa. Here's what she did

Billionaire Elon Musk backed Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi's views on British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's remark on the child sexual abuse scandal in England.
Starmer, on Monday (Jan 6), courted controversy after he used the term "Asian" with reference to the child sexual abuse scandal in northern England by groups comprising of men who mostly belonged to Pakistani origin.
Chaturvedi took to her X account and wrote in a post, &ldquo;Repeat after me, they aren&rsquo;t ASIAN Grooming Gangs but PAKISTANI grooming gangs. Why should Asians take the fall for one absolute rogue nation?"&nbsp;
Musk threw his weight behind the Rajya Sabha MP and responded to her post by saying "True".
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5ozjhw0-whg5rkaq-rq8afkza">
True
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1877001375852212399?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Musk accuses Starmer of failing to bring 'rape gangs' to justice</h2>
Earlier, Musk had accused Starmer of failing to bring to justice 'rape gangs' when he was the head of the country's prosecution service.
In a series of posts on his social media platform X, Musk said on Thursday (Jan 2), "In the UK, serious crimes such as rape require the Crown Prosecution Service's (CPS) approval for the police to charge suspects."
"Who was the head of the CPS when rape gangs were allowed to exploit young girls without facing justice? Keir Starmer, 2008-2013," Musk added.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-launches-scathing-attack-on-george-soros-condemns-him-for-funding-hamas-supporting-ngos-8603398" rel="dofollow">Also read: Elon Musk launches scathing attack on George Soros, condemns him for 'funding Hamas-supporting' NGOs</a>
<h2>The rape gangs or grooming gangs in UK</h2>
For several years, there has been systematic rape of young females in the UK by organised gangs, including those in Rotherham, Bristol, Rochdale, Cornwall, and Derbyshire. Many of these gangs were operated by mainly Pakistan-origin men.&nbsp;
Musk's remarks against Prime Minister Starmer came hours after Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called for a full national public inquiry into the rape gangs scandal.
"Trials have taken place all over the country in recent years but no one in authority has joined the dots. 2025 must be the year that the victims start to get justice," Badenoch said in a post on X.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-vs-starmer-x-boss-wants-king-charles-to-oust-uk-govt-amid-grooming-gangs-row-8590618" rel="dofollow">Also read: Musk vs Starmer: X boss wants King Charles to oust UK govt amid grooming gangs row</a>
<h2>Starmer responds to allegations</h2>
The UK PM responding to the allegations said the ones "spreading lies" were not interested in the victims, but themselves.
"We have seen this playbook many times - whipping up of intimidation and of threats of violence, hoping that the media will amplify it," Starmer said.
"Those who are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible are not interested in victims, they're interested in themselves," he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

For several years, there has been systematic rape of young females in the UK by organised gangs, including those in Rotherham, Bristol, Rochdale, Cornwall, and Derbyshire. 

Billionaire Elon Musk backed Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi's views on British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's remark on the child sexual abuse scandal in England. Starmer, on Monday (Jan 6), courted controversy after he used the term "Asian" with reference to the child sexual abuse scandal in northern England by groups comprising of men who mostly belonged to Pakistani origin. Chaturvedi took to her X account and wrote in a post, “Repeat after me, they aren’t ASIAN Grooming Gangs but PAKISTANI grooming gangs. Why should Asians take the fall for one absolute rogue nation?" Musk threw his weight behind the Rajya Sabha MP and responded to her post by saying "True". True — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 8, 2025 Musk accuses Starmer of failing to bring 'rape gangs' to justice Earlier, Musk had accused Starmer of failing to bring to justice 'rape gangs' when he was the head of the country's prosecution service. In a series of posts on his social media platform X, Musk said on Thursday (Jan 2), "In the UK, serious crimes such as rape require the Crown Prosecution Service's (CPS) approval for the police to charge suspects." "Who was the head of the CPS when rape gangs were allowed to exploit young girls without facing justice? Keir Starmer, 2008-2013," Musk added. Also read: Elon Musk launches scathing attack on George Soros, condemns him for 'funding Hamas-supporting' NGOs The rape gangs or grooming gangs in UK For several years, there has been systematic rape of young females in the UK by organised gangs, including those in Rotherham, Bristol, Rochdale, Cornwall, and Derbyshire. Many of these gangs were operated by mainly Pakistan-origin men. Musk's remarks against Prime Minister Starmer came hours after Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called for a full national public inquiry into the rape gangs scandal. "Trials have taken place all over the country in recent years but no one in authority has joined the dots. 2025 must be the year that the victims start to get justice," Badenoch said in a post on X. Also read: Musk vs Starmer: X boss wants King Charles to oust UK govt amid grooming gangs row Starmer responds to allegations The UK PM responding to the allegations said the ones "spreading lies" were not interested in the victims, but themselves. "We have seen this playbook many times - whipping up of intimidation and of threats of violence, hoping that the media will amplify it," Starmer said. "Those who are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible are not interested in victims, they're interested in themselves," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk and India's MP unite against Starmer's 'Asian' tag for UK child abusers

A new fire erupted in Hollywood on Wednesday (Jan 8) as the wildfires in Los Angeles are growing out of control. At least five people have lost their lives and officials have warned the count may rise further.
Over 1,500 buildings have been destroyed and 100,000 people forced to evacuate their homes in America&rsquo;s second-biggest city as wildfires are spreading rapidly, overwhelming the firefighters. Forecasters have said that damages could end up costing more than $50 billion.&nbsp;
Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said his crew members are struggling to contain the disasters as the scale and speed of the fires, fueled by hurricane-force winds, engulf California&rsquo;s most sought for real-estate.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/la-wildfires-five-dead-thousands-evacuated-as-catastrophic-inferno-burns-with-zero-containment-8603305" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">LA wildfires: Five dead as fires continue to burn with 'zero containment'</a>
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re doing the very best we can. But no, we don&rsquo;t have enough fire personnel in LA County between all the departments to handle this,&rdquo; said Marrone.
<h2>Hollywood Hills fire</h2>
Evacuation has been ordered in several streets of Hollywood including the Hollywood Boulevard as firefighters battle the blaze.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/los-angeles-wildfire-california-burning-mandy-moore-mark-hamil-hollywood-effected-in-la-wildfire-8603397" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Los Angeles Wildfires: Mandy Moore, Paris Hilton and other celebs affected</a>
&ldquo;There is no time to delay,&rdquo; Margaret Stewart of LAFD said. &ldquo;We do not want people stuck. We want everyone safely exiting, get in your vehicles, grab your friend who doesn't have a car, and head south.&rdquo;
The raging flames have engulfed several houses, forcing residents to flee their homes, including those of notable Hollywood stars including Paris Hilton, Ben Affleck, &nbsp;Billy Crystal and some others.
<h2>Biden cancels Italy trip</h2>
In the wake of wildfires that are wreaking havoc in Los Angeles, President Joe Biden has cancelled his upcoming trip to Italy to focus on federal aid for the situation.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-pics-massive-wildfire-engulfs-los-angeles-suburb-8602879" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">In pics | Massive wildfire engulfs Los Angeles suburb</a>
"After returning this evening from Los Angeles, where earlier today he had met with police, fire and emergency personnel ... President Biden made the decision to cancel his upcoming trip to Italy to remain focused on directing the full federal response in the days ahead," White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement.
Biden had scheduled his trip to Italy from Thursday (Jan 9) to Sunday (Jan 12), which was probably his last overseas trip as president.
<figure class="image"><img alt="A map of the Los Angeles area showing the different wildfire locations is seen during a briefing given to US President Joe Biden and California Governor Gavin Newsom on January 8, 2025. " src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/09/SgnkQIlYfaMqb0DQALr0.jpg" style="width: 1280px;">
<figcaption>A map of the Los Angeles area showing the different wildfire locations is seen during a briefing given to US President Joe Biden and California Governor Gavin Newsom on January 8, 2025. Photograph: (AFP)</figcaption>
</figure>
<h2>Hydrants run out of water</h2>
Los Angeles Department of Water and Power chief executive Janisse Quinones urged people to save water as the hydrants in Pacific Palisades ran dry.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-wrongly-blames-california-environmental-policies-for-los-angeles-wildfires-joe-biden-gavin-newscum-8603349" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump blames California environmental policies for LA wildfires</a>
President-elect Donald Trump blamed the state&rsquo;s environmental policies for the shortage of water in Los Angeles. However, according to AFP, much of Los Angeles' water supply comes from the Colorado River, with agriculture being the primary consumer.
According to the Washington Post, there are six wildfires burning in Los Angeles: Palisades Fire (15,832 acres), Eaton Fire (10,600 acres), Hurst Fire (850 acres), Lidia Fire (80 acres), Woodley Fire (30 acres) and Sunset Fire (20 acres).
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | Over 1,500 buildings have been destroyed and 100,000 people have been forced to evacuate their homes in Los Angeles. Forecasters have said that damages could end up costing more than $50 billion. 

A new fire erupted in Hollywood on Wednesday (Jan 8) as the wildfires in Los Angeles are growing out of control. At least five people have lost their lives and officials have warned the count may rise further. Over 1,500 buildings have been destroyed and 100,000 people forced to evacuate their homes in America’s second-biggest city as wildfires are spreading rapidly, overwhelming the firefighters. Forecasters have said that damages could end up costing more than $50 billion. Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said his crew members are struggling to contain the disasters as the scale and speed of the fires, fueled by hurricane-force winds, engulf California’s most sought for real-estate. Also read | LA wildfires: Five dead as fires continue to burn with 'zero containment' “We’re doing the very best we can. But no, we don’t have enough fire personnel in LA County between all the departments to handle this,” said Marrone. Hollywood Hills fire Evacuation has been ordered in several streets of Hollywood including the Hollywood Boulevard as firefighters battle the blaze. Also read | Los Angeles Wildfires: Mandy Moore, Paris Hilton and other celebs affected “There is no time to delay,” Margaret Stewart of LAFD said. “We do not want people stuck. We want everyone safely exiting, get in your vehicles, grab your friend who doesn't have a car, and head south.” The raging flames have engulfed several houses, forcing residents to flee their homes, including those of notable Hollywood stars including Paris Hilton, Ben Affleck, Billy Crystal and some others. Biden cancels Italy trip In the wake of wildfires that are wreaking havoc in Los Angeles, President Joe Biden has cancelled his upcoming trip to Italy to focus on federal aid for the situation. Also read | In pics | Massive wildfire engulfs Los Angeles suburb "After returning this evening from Los Angeles, where earlier today he had met with police, fire and emergency personnel ... President Biden made the decision to cancel his upcoming trip to Italy to remain focused on directing the full federal response in the days ahead," White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement. Biden had scheduled his trip to Italy from Thursday (Jan 9) to Sunday (Jan 12), which was probably his last overseas trip as president. A map of the Los Angeles area showing the different wildfire locations is seen during a briefing given to US President Joe Biden and California Governor Gavin Newsom on January 8, 2025. Photograph: (AFP) Hydrants run out of water Los Angeles Department of Water and Power chief executive Janisse Quinones urged people to save water as the hydrants in Pacific Palisades ran dry. Also read | Trump blames California environmental policies for LA wildfires President-elect Donald Trump blamed the state’s environmental policies for the shortage of water in Los Angeles. However, according to AFP, much of Los Angeles' water supply comes from the Colorado River, with agriculture being the primary consumer. According to the Washington Post, there are six wildfires burning in Los Angeles: Palisades Fire (15,832 acres), Eaton Fire (10,600 acres), Hurst Fire (850 acres), Lidia Fire (80 acres), Woodley Fire (30 acres) and Sunset Fire (20 acres). (With inputs from agencies)

Los Angeles wildfire engulfs Hollywood, Biden cancels Italy trip

Billionaire Elon Musk, on Wednesday (January 8), took a dig at Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for his comments rejecting the Canada-US merger pitched by US President-elect Donald Trump. Watch in for more details!

Tesla CEO pokes fun at Canada's outgoing PM

At least five people have been killed in wildfires raging around Los Angeles so far, with more deaths feared. Tens of thousands of people have fled their homes in California as a brush fire in the Pacific Palisades quickly spread to nearly 3,000 acres. Authorities have warned the blaze is spreading as even stronger winds are expected.

Los Angeles Wildfires: Displaced residents in shock at scale of fire destruction

The war rages on between Russia and Ukraine. In the latest, at least 13 people were killed and 29 others were injured after a Russian-guided missile struck Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia. This comes ahead of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's meeting with allies in Germany. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: Lloyd Austin says Kyiv needs more aid to stop Moscow's aggression

Sunita 'Suni' Williams and Butch Wilmore, the two NASA astronauts who have been stuck on the International Space Station (ISS) for seven months, on Wednesday (Jan 8) said that they have plenty of food and don't feel like castaways.
The two veteran astronauts arrived at the ISS in June for an eight-day mission but have been stuck up there for over seven months due to technical difficulties.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sunita-williams-witnesses-16-new-year-sunrises-science-explains-how-8582786" aria-label="Sunita Williams witnesses 16 New Year sunrises. Science explains how">Sunita Williams witnesses 16 New Year sunrises. Science explains how</a>
<h2>It's 'been a joy,' says Sunita Williams</h2>
During a call with NASA officials, Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams said that their spirits were still high despite the unexpectedly long stay on the orbiting space laboratory.
&ldquo;It's just been a joy to be working up here,&rdquo; she said, adding, &ldquo;It doesn't feel like we're cast away.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/i-eat-turkish-fish-stew-and-rice-says-sunita-williams-rubbishing-weight-loss-reports-775707" aria-label="'I eat Turkish fish stew and rice', says Sunita Williams, rubbishing weight loss reports">'I eat Turkish fish stew and rice', says Sunita Williams, rubbishing weight loss reports</a>
&ldquo;Eventually we want to go home, because we left our families a little while ago, but we have a lot to do while we're up here.&rdquo;
Even as concerns about her health and weight loss during the prolonged stay in space continue to circulate, Williams said, &ldquo;We are well-fed&rdquo;.
The veteran astronaut also shed light on the laundry situation in space and said the requirement is not comparable to that on Earth.
&ldquo;Clothes fit loosely up here. It's not like on Earth, where you sweat and it gets bad. I mean, they fit loosely. So you can wear things honestly, for weeks at a time, and it doesn't bother you at all,&rdquo; she said.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-awkwardly-announces-good-news-during-somber-briefing-on-raging-california-wildfires-8603872">Biden awkwardly announces 'good news' during somber briefing on raging California wildfires</a>
&ldquo;When we get home, we'll have lots of stories to tell,&rdquo; Williams added.&nbsp;
<h2>How long will Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore stay in space?</h2>
According to reports, due to problems with the Starliner's propulsion system, Williams and Wilmore will not return to Earth for some time. Their return flight is now scheduled for late March at the earliest. This means they are scheduled to spend more than nine months in space.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sunita-williams-demonstrates-students-how-astronauts-drink-liquid-in-space-in-a-virtual-event-782486" aria-label="Sunita Williams demonstrates students how astronauts drink liquid in space">Sunita Williams demonstrates to students how astronauts drink liquid in space</a>
Due to the propulsion system issues, NASA had decided to return the spacecraft to Earth without them. The stranded astronauts are expected to return with the members of the SpaceX Crew-9 mission.
(With inputs from agencies)

Trending | World: Sunita Williams remains positive seven months into her extended NASA mission on the ISS, originally set for eight days but prolonged due to technical issues.

Sunita 'Suni' Williams and Butch Wilmore, the two NASA astronauts who have been stuck on the International Space Station (ISS) for seven months, on Wednesday (Jan 8) said that they have plenty of food and don't feel like castaways. The two veteran astronauts arrived at the ISS in June for an eight-day mission but have been stuck up there for over seven months due to technical difficulties. Also read | Sunita Williams witnesses 16 New Year sunrises. Science explains how It's 'been a joy,' says Sunita Williams During a call with NASA officials, Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams said that their spirits were still high despite the unexpectedly long stay on the orbiting space laboratory. “It's just been a joy to be working up here,” she said, adding, “It doesn't feel like we're cast away.” Also read | 'I eat Turkish fish stew and rice', says Sunita Williams, rubbishing weight loss reports “Eventually we want to go home, because we left our families a little while ago, but we have a lot to do while we're up here.” Even as concerns about her health and weight loss during the prolonged stay in space continue to circulate, Williams said, “We are well-fed”. The veteran astronaut also shed light on the laundry situation in space and said the requirement is not comparable to that on Earth. “Clothes fit loosely up here. It's not like on Earth, where you sweat and it gets bad. I mean, they fit loosely. So you can wear things honestly, for weeks at a time, and it doesn't bother you at all,” she said. Also read | Biden awkwardly announces 'good news' during somber briefing on raging California wildfires “When we get home, we'll have lots of stories to tell,” Williams added. How long will Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore stay in space? According to reports, due to problems with the Starliner's propulsion system, Williams and Wilmore will not return to Earth for some time. Their return flight is now scheduled for late March at the earliest. This means they are scheduled to spend more than nine months in space. Also read | Sunita Williams demonstrates to students how astronauts drink liquid in space Due to the propulsion system issues, NASA had decided to return the spacecraft to Earth without them. The stranded astronauts are expected to return with the members of the SpaceX Crew-9 mission. (With inputs from agencies)

Sunita Williams upbeat seven months into eight-day NASA space mission

Outgoing US President Joe Biden awkwardly broke into announcing good news during the briefing on raging California wildfires on Wednesday (Jan 8) where he told the reporters that he had become a great-grandfather.
The 82-year-old's granddaughter Naomi gave birth in Los Angeles.
&ldquo;The good news is, I&rsquo;m a great-grandfather as of today,&rdquo; Biden said during a briefing on the blazes in the Pacific Palisades which have claimed the lives of five and left dozens homeless.
"I'll remember this day for a lot of reasons," Biden told the press.
The US president further said that the buildings that were ravaged in the wildfire did not include his son Hunter's home.
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s astounding what has happened,&rdquo; Biden said. &ldquo;Only one piece of good news: my son lives out here and his wife. They got a notification yesterday that their home was probably burned to the ground. Today, it appears that it&rsquo;s still standing, they&rsquo;re not sure.&rdquo;
Biden visited Cedars-Sinai Hospital for the birth in the morning before he received updates on the fire briefing.
He had earlier revealed in an interview with USA Today that he was about to become a great-grandfather following a scheduled C-section.
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m about to be a great-grandfather, Jesus God,&rdquo; he said.
&ldquo;But Naomi, [Hunter&rsquo;s] oldest, [is] about to, I&rsquo;m going out to California. She&rsquo;s due to have a caesarean on the 8th of January.&rdquo;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-wrongly-blames-california-environmental-policies-for-los-angeles-wildfires-joe-biden-gavin-newscum-8603349">Also read: Trump blames California environmental policies for LA wildfires</a>
<h2>Five dead as fires continue to burn LA</h2>
The death toll from the devastating wildfires rampaging the United States Los Angeles area has risen to five, said officials warning that it may rise further.
In America's second-biggest city, over 1,000 buildings have been incinerated by wildfires that have left firefighters overwhelmed by their speed and ferocity. In the upmarket Pacific Palisades, an area known for its luxurious and celebrity residents, winds have led to fireballs leaping from one house to the next, destroying some of the most desirable real estate.
(With inputs from agencies)

Biden visited Cedars-Sinai Hospital for the birth in the morning before he received updates on the fire briefing. He had earlier revealed in an interview that he was about to become a great-grandfather.

Outgoing US President Joe Biden awkwardly broke into announcing good news during the briefing on raging California wildfires on Wednesday (Jan 8) where he told the reporters that he had become a great-grandfather. The 82-year-old's granddaughter Naomi gave birth in Los Angeles. “The good news is, I’m a great-grandfather as of today,” Biden said during a briefing on the blazes in the Pacific Palisades which have claimed the lives of five and left dozens homeless. "I'll remember this day for a lot of reasons," Biden told the press. The US president further said that the buildings that were ravaged in the wildfire did not include his son Hunter's home. “It’s astounding what has happened,” Biden said. “Only one piece of good news: my son lives out here and his wife. They got a notification yesterday that their home was probably burned to the ground. Today, it appears that it’s still standing, they’re not sure.” Biden visited Cedars-Sinai Hospital for the birth in the morning before he received updates on the fire briefing. He had earlier revealed in an interview with USA Today that he was about to become a great-grandfather following a scheduled C-section. “I’m about to be a great-grandfather, Jesus God,” he said. “But Naomi, [Hunter’s] oldest, [is] about to, I’m going out to California. She’s due to have a caesarean on the 8th of January.” Also read: Trump blames California environmental policies for LA wildfires Five dead as fires continue to burn LA The death toll from the devastating wildfires rampaging the United States Los Angeles area has risen to five, said officials warning that it may rise further. In America's second-biggest city, over 1,000 buildings have been incinerated by wildfires that have left firefighters overwhelmed by their speed and ferocity. In the upmarket Pacific Palisades, an area known for its luxurious and celebrity residents, winds have led to fireballs leaping from one house to the next, destroying some of the most desirable real estate. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden awkwardly announces 'good news' during sombre briefing on California wildfires

The 47th President of the United States, Judge, has ambitious plans for the country even before taking office. President-elect Donald Trump has stated his plans to make America great again, even if it means taking control of other territories. In a headline-grabbing press conference on Tuesday, Trump threatened military action to...

US President-elect Donald Trump calls Greenland & Panama Canal critical to US

Amid the rising conflict between Kabul and Islamabad, another conflict is brewing between Afghanistan and its other neighbor, Iran. The dispute revolves around the allocation and use of shared river resources. Watch in for more details!

Iran-Afghanistan River Dispute Escalates: Iran Vows To Use 'All Tools' To Secure Water Rights

Drinking coffee can give you health benefits, but does the time to sip a cup of coffee matter? A new study published in the European Heart Journal, suggests that morning coffee drinkers may have a lower risk of dying from heart disease compared to those who drink it all day.

Morning Coffee Lowers The Risk Of Heart Disease

Jimmy Carter will be honored on Thursday (Jan 9) with a state funeral at Washington's National Cathedral, amid a groundswell of tributes honoring the 39th US president and the last from the so-called Greatest Generation.The service caps a week of mourning that has seen Americans quietly filing past the flag-draped coffin in the US Capitol to pay their respects to Carter, who died on December 29 at the age of 100 in his home state of Georgia.
President Joe Biden will deliver the eulogy for his fellow Democrat at the Episcopal church that has been a traditional venue for send-offs of US presidents, from Dwight Eisenhower and Ronald Reagan to George H.W. Bush.Biden revealed in an interview with USA Today published Wednesday that Carter had asked him to do the honors when the pair&mdash;longstanding friends&mdash;met for the last time four years ago."Carter was a decent man. I think Carter looked at the world not from here but from here, where everybody else lives," Biden said as he gestured from above his head towards his heart.
Biden's living predecessors&mdash;Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump&mdash;are expected to join around 3,000 mourners at the service, and Thursday has been designated a national day of mourning, with federal offices closed. Carter, who served a single term before a crushing election loss to Ronald Reagan in 1980, was perceived as naive and weak in the dog-eat-dog world of Washington politics.&nbsp;
Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jimmy-carter-world-leaders-reflect-on-former-presidents-enduring-legacy-8576534" rel="dofollow"> Jimmy Carter dies at 100: World leaders reflect on former US President's enduring legacy</a>
<h2>'Decent and humble'</h2>
A more nuanced image of him has emerged as the years passed, reassessing achievements like the brokering of a peace deal between Israel and Egypt.He also received high praise for his post-presidential humanitarian efforts and a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.The first president to reach triple digits, he had been in hospice care since February 2023 in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, where he died and will be buried next to his late wife, former first lady Rosalynn Carter.Mourners began paying their respects on Saturday, as the carefully choreographed six-day farewell got underway with US flags flying at half-staff around the country.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5owts3z-ace9u1k2-iakt0wvn">
US leaders paid tribute to former President Jimmy Carter, who had the longest and most admired post-presidency in history, as he laid in state at the US Capitol ahead of his funeral <a href="https://t.co/ZhN97RuhaC">https://t.co/ZhN97RuhaC</a> <a href="https://t.co/1RaxQOJPeR">pic.twitter.com/1RaxQOJPeR</a>
&mdash; Reuters (@Reuters) <a href="https://twitter.com/Reuters/status/1876863906020548872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
A black hearse bearing Carter's remains paused at his boyhood family peanut farm in Plains, where a bell was rung 39 times and staff stood in silent tribute. Crowds gathered along the roadside to say their goodbyes, snap photographs or salute as the motorcade rolled slowly past.Carter's flag-draped casket arrived at Washington's snow-covered US Capitol on Tuesday atop a gun carriage.It was accompanied by hundreds of service members, with military pallbearers carrying Carter to the Rotunda to lie in state ahead of Thursday's ceremony&mdash;the first presidential funeral since Bush Senior died in 2018.
Chuck Schumer, the leader of the Democrats in the Senate, described Carter as "one of the most decent and humble public servants we have ever seen. "President Carter was a living embodiment of leadership through service, compassion, and a thirst for justice for all," he said.
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: President Joe Biden will give the eulogy for his longtime friend, former President Jimmy Carter, at the church where US presidents are often honored.

Jimmy Carter will be honored on Thursday (Jan 9) with a state funeral at Washington's National Cathedral, amid a groundswell of tributes honoring the 39th US president and the last from the so-called Greatest Generation.The service caps a week of mourning that has seen Americans quietly filing past the flag-draped coffin in the US Capitol to pay their respects to Carter, who died on December 29 at the age of 100 in his home state of Georgia. President Joe Biden will deliver the eulogy for his fellow Democrat at the Episcopal church that has been a traditional venue for send-offs of US presidents, from Dwight Eisenhower and Ronald Reagan to George H.W. Bush.Biden revealed in an interview with USA Today published Wednesday that Carter had asked him to do the honors when the pair—longstanding friends—met for the last time four years ago."Carter was a decent man. I think Carter looked at the world not from here but from here, where everybody else lives," Biden said as he gestured from above his head towards his heart. Biden's living predecessors—Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump—are expected to join around 3,000 mourners at the service, and Thursday has been designated a national day of mourning, with federal offices closed. Carter, who served a single term before a crushing election loss to Ronald Reagan in 1980, was perceived as naive and weak in the dog-eat-dog world of Washington politics. Also Read: Jimmy Carter dies at 100: World leaders reflect on former US President's enduring legacy 'Decent and humble' A more nuanced image of him has emerged as the years passed, reassessing achievements like the brokering of a peace deal between Israel and Egypt.He also received high praise for his post-presidential humanitarian efforts and a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.The first president to reach triple digits, he had been in hospice care since February 2023 in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, where he died and will be buried next to his late wife, former first lady Rosalynn Carter.Mourners began paying their respects on Saturday, as the carefully choreographed six-day farewell got underway with US flags flying at half-staff around the country. US leaders paid tribute to former President Jimmy Carter, who had the longest and most admired post-presidency in history, as he laid in state at the US Capitol ahead of his funeral https://t.co/ZhN97RuhaC pic.twitter.com/1RaxQOJPeR — Reuters (@Reuters) January 8, 2025 A black hearse bearing Carter's remains paused at his boyhood family peanut farm in Plains, where a bell was rung 39 times and staff stood in silent tribute. Crowds gathered along the roadside to say their goodbyes, snap photographs or salute as the motorcade rolled slowly past.Carter's flag-draped casket arrived at Washington's snow-covered US Capitol on Tuesday atop a gun carriage.It was accompanied by hundreds of service members, with military pallbearers carrying Carter to the Rotunda to lie in state ahead of Thursday's ceremony—the first presidential funeral since Bush Senior died in 2018. Chuck Schumer, the leader of the Democrats in the Senate, described Carter as "one of the most decent and humble public servants we have ever seen. "President Carter was a living embodiment of leadership through service, compassion, and a thirst for justice for all," he said. 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

Nation mourns as Jimmy Carter’s state funeral begins; Biden to deliver eulogy

US president-elect Donald Trump pitched days before his inauguration for NATO countries to raise the defense budget to a record 5% of GDP. For many allies the proposition hits hard. Is Trump looking to make NATO an instrument to further American arms exports?

Trump calls for defense spending for NATO allies to go up to 5%

The United States warned on Wednesday (January 8) that North Korea is &ldquo;significantly benefiting&rdquo; from its troops fighting alongside Russia against Ukraine, gaining experience that makes Pyongyang &ldquo;more capable of waging war against its neighbours.&rdquo;
Russia has forged closer diplomatic and military ties with North Korea since Moscow invaded Ukraine in February 2022.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mel-j-horne-man-arrested-for-trying-to-smuggle-machete-knives-into-us-capitol-ahead-of-trumps-visit-for-jimmy-carter-state-funeral-8603446">Man arrested for trying to smuggle machete, knives into US Capitol ahead of Trump visit</a>
More than 12,000 North Korean troops are in Russia and last month began fighting against Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region, deputy US Ambassador to the UN Dorothy Camille Shea told the United Nations Security Council.
&ldquo;The DPRK is significantly benefiting from receiving Russian military equipment, technology and experience, rendering it more capable of waging war against its neighbours,&rdquo; Shea told the 15-member council, which met over what Pyongyang said was a test of a new intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile on Monday.
&ldquo;In turn, the DPRK will likely be eager to leverage these improvements to promote weapons sales and military training contracts globally,&rdquo; she said, using the acronym for North Korea's formal name - the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/priyanka-chopra-is-safe-shares-video-of-la-fires-as-hollywood-celebs-flee-8603522">Priyanka Chopra is safe, shares video of LA fires as Hollywood celebs flee</a>
North Korea's UN Ambassador Kim Song justified Monday's missile test as part of a plan to enhance the country's defence capabilities. He accused the United States of double standards.
&ldquo;When the civilian death toll exceeded 45,000 in Gaza, United States embellished Israel's nefarious mass killing atrocity as the right to self-defence... Meanwhile, it takes issue with the legitimate exercise of the right to self-defence of the DPRK,&rdquo; Kim told the Security Council.
Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia repeated Moscow's long-standing accusation that the US, South Korea and Japan provoke North Korea with military exercises. He also rejected as &ldquo;wholly unsubstantiated&rdquo; a US allegation that Russia intends to share satellite and space technology with Pyongyang.
&ldquo;Such statements are the latest example of baseless conjecture which is geared towards smearing bilateral cooperation between the Russian Federation and the friendly nation of the DPRK,&rdquo; said Nebenzia, who also congratulated North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on his birthday on Wednesday.
South Korea's UN Ambassador Joonkook Hwang told the council that North Korea's soldiers were &ldquo;essentially slaves to Kim Jong Un, brainwashed to sacrifice their lives on faraway battlefields to raise money for his regime and secure advanced military technology from Russia.&rdquo;
North Korea has been under UN sanctions since 2006, and the measures have been steadily strengthened over the years with the aim of halting Pyongyang's development of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles. Russia has a veto power in the 15-member body, so any further council action is unlikely.
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&nbsp;audience.

More than 12,000 North Korean troops are in Russia and last month began fighting against Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region, deputy US Ambassador to the UN Dorothy Camille Shea told the United Nations Security Council.

The United States warned on Wednesday (January 8) that North Korea is “significantly benefiting” from its troops fighting alongside Russia against Ukraine, gaining experience that makes Pyongyang “more capable of waging war against its neighbours.” Russia has forged closer diplomatic and military ties with North Korea since Moscow invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Also read | Man arrested for trying to smuggle machete, knives into US Capitol ahead of Trump visit More than 12,000 North Korean troops are in Russia and last month began fighting against Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region, deputy US Ambassador to the UN Dorothy Camille Shea told the United Nations Security Council. “The DPRK is significantly benefiting from receiving Russian military equipment, technology and experience, rendering it more capable of waging war against its neighbours,” Shea told the 15-member council, which met over what Pyongyang said was a test of a new intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile on Monday. “In turn, the DPRK will likely be eager to leverage these improvements to promote weapons sales and military training contracts globally,” she said, using the acronym for North Korea's formal name - the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Also read | Priyanka Chopra is safe, shares video of LA fires as Hollywood celebs flee North Korea's UN Ambassador Kim Song justified Monday's missile test as part of a plan to enhance the country's defence capabilities. He accused the United States of double standards. “When the civilian death toll exceeded 45,000 in Gaza, United States embellished Israel's nefarious mass killing atrocity as the right to self-defence... Meanwhile, it takes issue with the legitimate exercise of the right to self-defence of the DPRK,” Kim told the Security Council. Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia repeated Moscow's long-standing accusation that the US, South Korea and Japan provoke North Korea with military exercises. He also rejected as “wholly unsubstantiated” a US allegation that Russia intends to share satellite and space technology with Pyongyang. “Such statements are the latest example of baseless conjecture which is geared towards smearing bilateral cooperation between the Russian Federation and the friendly nation of the DPRK,” said Nebenzia, who also congratulated North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on his birthday on Wednesday. South Korea's UN Ambassador Joonkook Hwang told the council that North Korea's soldiers were “essentially slaves to Kim Jong Un, brainwashed to sacrifice their lives on faraway battlefields to raise money for his regime and secure advanced military technology from Russia.” North Korea has been under UN sanctions since 2006, and the measures have been steadily strengthened over the years with the aim of halting Pyongyang's development of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles. Russia has a veto power in the 15-member body, so any further council action is unlikely. 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.

North Korea 'significantly benefiting' from its troops fighting in Russia war: US at UNSC

The Israeli military says its troops have found the body of a hostage held by Hamas in Gaza, along with evidence suggesting that his son may also have been killed. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: Blinken says Gaza deal may not happen before Trump takes over

John Mahama has been sworn in as Ghana’s new president, pledging to "reset" the country and address its key challenges. His promises reflect a focus on revitalizing the nation’s economy and political landscape.

John Dramani Mahama sworn in as Ghana’s president, vows to ‘reset’ the country

Ahead of US President-elect Trump&rsquo;s visit, Capitol Police arrested a man attempting to smuggle a machete and three knives into the building on Wednesday (Jan 8). Donald Trump on January 8 blamed California Governor Gavin Newsom and the state's environmental policies for worsening water shortages and wildfires in Los Angeles.
A stampede in India's Tirupati on the evening of January 8 resulted in six deaths and 40 injuries as devotees rushed for tickets for the temple event. The incident was caused by overcrowding, according to officials.
In other news, Alexander Smirnov, the former FBI informant who falsely accused President Joe Biden and his son of accepting a $10 million bribe, was sentenced to six years in prison on January 8.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mel-j-horne-man-arrested-for-trying-to-smuggle-machete-knives-into-us-capitol-ahead-of-trumps-visit-for-jimmy-carter-state-funeral-8603446" rel="dofollow">Man arrested for trying to smuggle machete, knives into US Capitol ahead of Trump's visit</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/09/aJmzbfVEYVL9bo4ROpYv.png" alt=" File photo: US Capitol Photograph: (AFP) ">
Ahead of US president-elect Donald Trump's visit to the US Capitol, the Capitol Police on Wednesday (Jan 8) arrested a man trying to smuggle in a machete and three knives into the building.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-wrongly-blames-california-environmental-policies-for-los-angeles-wildfires-joe-biden-gavin-newscum-8603349" rel="dofollow"></a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-wrongly-blames-california-environmental-policies-for-los-angeles-wildfires-joe-biden-gavin-newscum-8603349" rel="dofollow">Trump </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-wrongly-blames-california-environmental-policies-for-los-angeles-wildfires-joe-biden-gavin-newscum-8603349" rel="dofollow">blames California environmental policies for LA wildfires</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/09/IGbW3itZOuQAU33g1OKC.png" alt=" Combination image: Donald Trump, LA wildfires Photograph: (AFP) ">
United States President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jan 8), blamed Governor Gavin Newscum and California's environmental policies for water shortages exasperating the wildfires in the United States' Los Angeles.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-led-to-tirupati-stampede-in-andhra-pradesh-ttd-apologises-for-unfortunate-incident-8603488" rel="dofollow">What led to Tirupati stampede? TTD apologises for &lsquo;unfortunate incident&rsquo;</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/09/A6fhE6U5GjEIx9S0cxqe.jpg" alt=" There were 91 counters and thousands of devotees lined up to get the tokens in the morning to get the tickets. However, the crowd became unruly when people started pushing and jostling. Photograph: (ANI) ">
At least six people were killed and 40 others injured during a stampede in Tirupati on Wednesday (Jan 8) when hundreds of devotees jostled for tickets to a religious event. The tragic incident which took place near Vishnu Niwasam during the distribution of tokens was caused by &ldquo;overcrowding&rdquo;, according to the Chairman of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD).&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-trusted-informant-to-convict-ex-fbi-informant-alexander-smirnov-sentenced-to-six-years-for-falsely-accusing-joe-biden-hunter-biden-of-bribery-8603328" rel="dofollow">Ex-FBI informant Alexander Smirnov sentenced to six years for fake Biden-Ukraine bribery allegations</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/09/9B9Bjrc2X9KOzmrbLlEV.png" alt=" Prosecutors revealed that Smirnov fabricated claims in 2020, alleging executives at Burisma Holdings paid Joe and Hunter Biden $5 million each in bribes to protect the company while Joe Biden served as vice president.&nbsp; Photograph: (AFP) ">
Alexander Smirnov, the disgraced former FBI informant who falsely accused incumbent US president Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden of taking a $10 million bribe from Ukraine, was sentenced to six years in prison on Wednesday (Jan 8).&nbsp;
Watch: Former Cambodian MP LimKimya shot dead in Bangkok
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Former Cambodian MP <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LimKimya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LimKimya</a> shot dead in Bangkok Lim Kimya's party calls killing an 'assassination'. Government denies involvement. What is the real story and who is behind this deadly attack?<a href="https://twitter.com/SehgalRahesha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SehgalRahesha</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/SaroyaHem?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SaroyaHem</a> brings you this report <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cambodia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cambodia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bangkok?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bangkok</a> <a href="https://t.co/6uSYeF3bfg">pic.twitter.com/6uSYeF3bfg</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1877209052775854373?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;

 World: Good morning! Start your day with WION's morning news brief.

Ahead of US President-elect Trump’s visit, Capitol Police arrested a man attempting to smuggle a machete and three knives into the building on Wednesday (Jan 8). Donald Trump on January 8 blamed California Governor Gavin Newsom and the state's environmental policies for worsening water shortages and wildfires in Los Angeles. A stampede in India's Tirupati on the evening of January 8 resulted in six deaths and 40 injuries as devotees rushed for tickets for the temple event. The incident was caused by overcrowding, according to officials. In other news, Alexander Smirnov, the former FBI informant who falsely accused President Joe Biden and his son of accepting a $10 million bribe, was sentenced to six years in prison on January 8. Click on the headlines for more Man arrested for trying to smuggle machete, knives into US Capitol ahead of Trump's visit Ahead of US president-elect Donald Trump's visit to the US Capitol, the Capitol Police on Wednesday (Jan 8) arrested a man trying to smuggle in a machete and three knives into the building. Trump blames California environmental policies for LA wildfires United States President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jan 8), blamed Governor Gavin Newscum and California's environmental policies for water shortages exasperating the wildfires in the United States' Los Angeles. What led to Tirupati stampede? TTD apologises for ‘unfortunate incident’ At least six people were killed and 40 others injured during a stampede in Tirupati on Wednesday (Jan 8) when hundreds of devotees jostled for tickets to a religious event. The tragic incident which took place near Vishnu Niwasam during the distribution of tokens was caused by “overcrowding”, according to the Chairman of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). Ex-FBI informant Alexander Smirnov sentenced to six years for fake Biden-Ukraine bribery allegations Alexander Smirnov, the disgraced former FBI informant who falsely accused incumbent US president Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden of taking a $10 million bribe from Ukraine, was sentenced to six years in prison on Wednesday (Jan 8). Watch: Former Cambodian MP LimKimya shot dead in Bangkok Former Cambodian MP #LimKimya shot dead in Bangkok Lim Kimya's party calls killing an 'assassination'. Government denies involvement. What is the real story and who is behind this deadly attack?@SehgalRahesha and @SaroyaHem brings you this report #Cambodia #Bangkok pic.twitter.com/6uSYeF3bfg — WION (@WIONews) January 9, 2025

Morning news brief: Los Angeles wildfires update; what led to Tirupati stampede, and more

Ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump's visit to the US Capitol, the police on Wednesday (Jan 8) arrested a man trying to smuggle a machete and three knives into the building.&nbsp;
<h2>What happened?</h2>
As per a statement published on the United States Capitol Police website, the man, identified as 44-year-old Mel J. Horne, of Washington, DC, was arrested just after 02:00 pm local time (7 pm GMT).&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-wrongly-blames-california-environmental-policies-for-los-angeles-wildfires-joe-biden-gavin-newscum-8603349" aria-label="Trump blames California environmental policies for LA wildfires">Trump blames California environmental policies for LA wildfires</a>
Horne is accused of trying to smuggle in dangerous weapons. The machete he was carrying was detected by an X-ray machine at the entrance to the Capitol Visitor Center (CVC), and the knives were found in a subsequent bag search.
&ldquo;Our officers know they cannot let their guard down for one second,&rdquo; said US Capitol Police Chief J. Thomas Manger in a statement.&nbsp;
&ldquo;It is this constant focus and attention to detail that helps keep this campus safe,&rdquo; added the Capitol Police chief.
Also read |&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-think-yes-but-biden-says-he-could-have-beaten-trump-8603119" aria-label="&lsquo;I think yes but...,&rsquo; Biden says he could have beaten Trump">&lsquo;I think yes but&hellip;,&rsquo; Biden says he could have beaten Trump</a>
Security screening was temporarily stopped at the north side of the Capitol Visitor Center, while the USCP investigated, but the checkpoint was reopened approximately an hour later. 
&ldquo;Public viewing for the lying in state (of recently deceased former US president Jimmy Carter) was not stopped and will continue throughout the night, into Thursday morning,&rdquo; said the USCP.
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-president-mocks-trumps-gulf-of-america-proposal-suggests-mexican-america-instead-8603211" aria-label="Mexico President mocks Trump&rsquo;s 'Gulf of America' proposal, suggests 'Mexican America' instead">Mexico President mocks Trump&rsquo;s 'Gulf of America' proposal, suggests 'Mexican America' instead</a>
<h2>Charges against Mel J. Horne</h2>
The man, Mel J. Horne, has been arrested on multiple counts of Carrying a Dangerous Weapon. He is under investigation by the USCP to determine his motives. It is not yet clear if the president-elect was the target or not.&nbsp;
&ldquo;At this time there is no ongoing threat towards the Congress, the U.S. Capitol, or the public,&rdquo; said the Capitol Police.
(With inputs from agencies)
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&nbsp;

World news | Discover how Capitol Police thwarted a security breach by arresting a man attempting to smuggle a machete and knives into the US Capitol ahead of Trump's visit.

Ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump's visit to the US Capitol, the police on Wednesday (Jan 8) arrested a man trying to smuggle a machete and three knives into the building. What happened? As per a statement published on the United States Capitol Police website, the man, identified as 44-year-old Mel J. Horne, of Washington, DC, was arrested just after 02:00 pm local time (7 pm GMT). Also read | Trump blames California environmental policies for LA wildfires Horne is accused of trying to smuggle in dangerous weapons. The machete he was carrying was detected by an X-ray machine at the entrance to the Capitol Visitor Center (CVC), and the knives were found in a subsequent bag search. “Our officers know they cannot let their guard down for one second,” said US Capitol Police Chief J. Thomas Manger in a statement. “It is this constant focus and attention to detail that helps keep this campus safe,” added the Capitol Police chief. Also read | ‘I think yes but…,’ Biden says he could have beaten Trump Security screening was temporarily stopped at the north side of the Capitol Visitor Center, while the USCP investigated, but the checkpoint was reopened approximately an hour later. “Public viewing for the lying in state (of recently deceased former US president Jimmy Carter) was not stopped and will continue throughout the night, into Thursday morning,” said the USCP. Also read | Mexico President mocks Trump’s 'Gulf of America' proposal, suggests 'Mexican America' instead Charges against Mel J. Horne The man, Mel J. Horne, has been arrested on multiple counts of Carrying a Dangerous Weapon. He is under investigation by the USCP to determine his motives. It is not yet clear if the president-elect was the target or not. “At this time there is no ongoing threat towards the Congress, the U.S. Capitol, or the public,” said the Capitol Police. (With inputs from agencies)

Man arrested for trying to smuggle machete, knives into US Capitol ahead of Trump visit

In the months-long political tug of war between opposition and Nicolás Maduro, the opposition is refusing to retreat on its claim to the presidency amid a crackdown by President Nicolás Maduro on his rivals. Venezuela's collectivo, a group of armed volunteers backed by Nicolás Maduro, have warned that they will forcibly end the opposition protest on the eve of Maduro's swearing-in ceremony. Watch in for more details!

Venezuela political turmoil: Maduro's 'colectivos' take up arms against opposition

Los Angeles wildfire: Wildfire burns down 3,000 acres in Pacific Palisades region

The death toll from the devastating wildfires rampaging the United States Los Angeles area has risen to five, said officials on Wednesday (Jan 8), warning that it may rise further.
In America's second-biggest city, over 1,000 buildings have been incinerated by wildfires that have left firefighters overwhelmed by their speed and ferocity. In the upmarket Pacific Palisades, an area known for its luxurious and celebrity residents, winds have led to fireballs leaping from one house to the next, destroying some of the most desirable real estate.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/los-angeles-fire-2-dead-several-significantly-injured-as-palisades-fire-spreads-across-2000-acres-8603147">Los Angeles fire: 2 dead, several 'significantly' injured as Palisades fire spreads across 2,000 acres</a>
<h2>Death toll grows</h2>
Updating the media on the death toll, Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna said that his crews were overwhelmed by the scale and the speed of the disastrous fires.
&ldquo;We're doing the very best we can. But no, we don't have enough fire personnel in LA County between all the departments to handle this,&rdquo; he said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/world/denmark-says-greenland-can-be-independent-but-not-part-of-united-states-8603224">Denmark says Greenland can be 'independent' but not part of United States</a>
Talking to radio station KNX, Luna said that the death toll has unfortunately &ldquo;grown to five,&rdquo; warning it could rise further.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Remember, this is still a very fluid situation. There's zero containment on this fire. I'm really praying we don't find more, but I don't think that's going to be the case,&rdquo; he added.
<h2>Evacuations amid dire conditions&nbsp;</h2>
Around 70,000 residents are under evacuation orders, but some who stayed behind have sustained &ldquo;significant injuries,&rdquo; said LA County Fire Chief Marrone.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-president-mocks-trumps-gulf-of-america-proposal-suggests-mexican-america-instead-8603211">Mexico President mocks Trump&rsquo;s 'Gulf of America' proposal, suggests 'Mexican America' instead</a>
Fire crews are also battling resource challenges, with hydrants in Pacific Palisades running dry.&nbsp;
Janisse Quinones, head of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, urged residents to conserve water. &ldquo;We're fighting a wildfire with urban water systems, and that is really challenging,&rdquo; she said.
<h2>Primed for disaster</h2>
According to scientists, human-caused climate change is behind the altering weather patterns that are responsible for the disaster.&nbsp;
Years of drought, followed by unusually wet seasons that spurred rampant vegetation growth, have left the region primed to burn.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tibet-earthquake-aftershocks-continue-to-rattle-region-8603151">Tibet earthquake: Aftershocks continue to rattle region</a>
Meteorologist Daniel Swain noted the unprecedented dryness over recent months, combined with extreme winds, is a key driver of the fires.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The winds are the driver, but the real catalyst&hellip; is this incredible antecedent dryness,&rdquo; Swain explained.
&ldquo;The lack of rain and the anomalous warmth and dryness that we've seen the past six months. That's something that we haven't seen in records going back to the 1800s.&rdquo;&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World news | Fire crews face resource challenges; Pacific Palisades hydrants run dry. Residents urged to conserve water as urban systems struggle against wildfires.

The death toll from the devastating wildfires rampaging the United States Los Angeles area has risen to five, said officials on Wednesday (Jan 8), warning that it may rise further. In America's second-biggest city, over 1,000 buildings have been incinerated by wildfires that have left firefighters overwhelmed by their speed and ferocity. In the upmarket Pacific Palisades, an area known for its luxurious and celebrity residents, winds have led to fireballs leaping from one house to the next, destroying some of the most desirable real estate. Also read | Los Angeles fire: 2 dead, several 'significantly' injured as Palisades fire spreads across 2,000 acres Death toll grows Updating the media on the death toll, Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna said that his crews were overwhelmed by the scale and the speed of the disastrous fires. “We're doing the very best we can. But no, we don't have enough fire personnel in LA County between all the departments to handle this,” he said. Also read | Denmark says Greenland can be 'independent' but not part of United States Talking to radio station KNX, Luna said that the death toll has unfortunately “grown to five,” warning it could rise further. “Remember, this is still a very fluid situation. There's zero containment on this fire. I'm really praying we don't find more, but I don't think that's going to be the case,” he added. Evacuations amid dire conditions Around 70,000 residents are under evacuation orders, but some who stayed behind have sustained “significant injuries,” said LA County Fire Chief Marrone. Also read | Mexico President mocks Trump’s 'Gulf of America' proposal, suggests 'Mexican America' instead Fire crews are also battling resource challenges, with hydrants in Pacific Palisades running dry. Janisse Quinones, head of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, urged residents to conserve water. “We're fighting a wildfire with urban water systems, and that is really challenging,” she said. Primed for disaster According to scientists, human-caused climate change is behind the altering weather patterns that are responsible for the disaster. Years of drought, followed by unusually wet seasons that spurred rampant vegetation growth, have left the region primed to burn. Also read | Tibet earthquake: Aftershocks continue to rattle region Meteorologist Daniel Swain noted the unprecedented dryness over recent months, combined with extreme winds, is a key driver of the fires. “The winds are the driver, but the real catalyst… is this incredible antecedent dryness,” Swain explained. “The lack of rain and the anomalous warmth and dryness that we've seen the past six months. That's something that we haven't seen in records going back to the 1800s.” (With inputs from agencies)

LA wildfires: Five dead as fires continue to burn with 'zero containment'

Elon Musk on Wednesday (Jan 8) launched a scathing attack against billionaire George Soros alleging that the latter's "hatred of humanity includes Israel".&nbsp;
Musk took to his X handle and shared a news report citing Israeli ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan, who condemned Soros for giving out $15 million to non-governmental organisations that allegedly support the Palestinian group Hamas.
"George Soros's hatred of humanity includes Israel btw," Musk wrote captioning the post.
Tesla CEO's recent statements are the latest barrage in a series of attacks targeting Soros, who was just awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which is the US' highest civilian honour, by President Joe Biden.
This recognition flared a fierce debate, with some hailing Soros as a champion of democracy and human rights, while others, like Musk, were vocal in their criticism.&nbsp;
Musk, calling the honour "travesty", alleged that Soros &ldquo;fundamentally hates humanity.&rdquo;
He then shared a meme comparing Soros to Star Wars character Darth Sidious, the villainous Sith Lord from Star Wars, and wrote, &ldquo;George Soros looking quite good here. Must be the lighting.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5orza00-bvs402vh-hegiijco">
George Soros looking quite good here. Must be the lighting. <a href="https://t.co/gNHhKyd2GQ">pic.twitter.com/gNHhKyd2GQ</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1875722946570023123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
<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" rel="dofollow">Also read: TED chief Chris Anderson raises concerns over Musk's recent social media posts, says 'miss the old Elon'</a>
<h2>Musk condemns Soros for 'interference' in European politics</h2>
Musk previously responded to a post shared by an X user who accused billionaires George Soros and Bill Gates of interference in European politics.
The post read, &ldquo;Billionaires George Soros &amp; Bill Gates interfered with European politics for decades, spending huge sums to influence elections. They were promoting open borders &amp; transfer of power from national governments to supranational organizations. Merkel &amp; Macron had no issues with it.&rdquo;
Musk shared the post calling it, "True".
Another user wrote in his post, "Leftists had NO problem with George Soros, Bill Gates and other liberal billionaires donating to European political parties and movements over the years, but suddenly call it "interference" when Elon Musk raises awareness about Muslim Grooming Gangs in Britain."
To which Musk replied, &ldquo;Why is that?&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

Tesla CEO's recent statements are the latest barrage in a series of attacks targeting Soros, who was just awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which is the US' highest civilian honour, by President Joe Biden.

Elon Musk on Wednesday (Jan 8) launched a scathing attack against billionaire George Soros alleging that the latter's "hatred of humanity includes Israel". Musk took to his X handle and shared a news report citing Israeli ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan, who condemned Soros for giving out $15 million to non-governmental organisations that allegedly support the Palestinian group Hamas. "George Soros's hatred of humanity includes Israel btw," Musk wrote captioning the post. Tesla CEO's recent statements are the latest barrage in a series of attacks targeting Soros, who was just awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which is the US' highest civilian honour, by President Joe Biden. This recognition flared a fierce debate, with some hailing Soros as a champion of democracy and human rights, while others, like Musk, were vocal in their criticism. Musk, calling the honour "travesty", alleged that Soros “fundamentally hates humanity.” He then shared a meme comparing Soros to Star Wars character Darth Sidious, the villainous Sith Lord from Star Wars, and wrote, “George Soros looking quite good here. Must be the lighting.” George Soros looking quite good here. Must be the lighting. pic.twitter.com/gNHhKyd2GQ — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 5, 2025 Also read: TED chief Chris Anderson raises concerns over Musk's recent social media posts, says 'miss the old Elon' Musk condemns Soros for 'interference' in European politics Musk previously responded to a post shared by an X user who accused billionaires George Soros and Bill Gates of interference in European politics. The post read, “Billionaires George Soros & Bill Gates interfered with European politics for decades, spending huge sums to influence elections. They were promoting open borders & transfer of power from national governments to supranational organizations. Merkel & Macron had no issues with it.” Musk shared the post calling it, "True". Another user wrote in his post, "Leftists had NO problem with George Soros, Bill Gates and other liberal billionaires donating to European political parties and movements over the years, but suddenly call it "interference" when Elon Musk raises awareness about Muslim Grooming Gangs in Britain." To which Musk replied, “Why is that?” (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk launches scathing attack on George Soros, condemns him for 'funding Hamas-supporting' NGOs

United States President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jan 8) wrongly, blamed California Governor Gavin Newsom and the state's environmental policies for water shortages exasperating the wildfires in Los Angeles.&nbsp;
<h2>Trump's false accusations</h2>
Trump claimed that Newsom &ldquo;refused to sign the water restoration declaration put before him that would have allowed millions of gallons of water,&rdquo; to protect an &ldquo;essentially worthless fish called a smelt&rdquo;.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/la-wildfires-five-dead-thousands-evacuated-as-catastrophic-inferno-burns-with-zero-containment-8603305">LA wildfires: Five dead as fires continue to burn with 'zero containment'</a>
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However, according to AFP, much of Los Angeles' water supply comes from the Colorado River, with agriculture being the primary consumer.
Trump, whose inauguration is less than two weeks away, said he was looking forward to January 20th.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/los-angeles-fire-2-dead-several-significantly-injured-as-palisades-fire-spreads-across-2000-acres-8603147">Los Angeles fire: 2 dead, several 'significantly' injured as Palisades fire spreads across 2,000 acres</a>
&ldquo;As of this moment, Gavin Newscum and his Los Angeles crew have contained exactly ZERO percent of the fire. It is burning at levels that even surpass last night. This is not Government,&rdquo; he said, adding, &ldquo;I can&rsquo;t wait till January 20th!&rdquo;.
The president-elect also slammed his predecessor, incumbent President Joe Biden, and said, &ldquo;No water in the fire hydrants, no money in FEMA. This is what Joe Biden is leaving me. Thanks Joe!&rdquo;&nbsp;
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Meanwhile, President Joe Biden, who arrived in Los Angeles on Monday (Jan 6) to designate a new national monument, pledged unwavering support while visiting the disaster zone with Governor Newsom.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-trusted-informant-to-convict-ex-fbi-informant-alexander-smirnov-sentenced-to-six-years-for-falsely-accusing-joe-biden-hunter-biden-of-bribery-8603328">Ex-FBI informant Alexander Smirnov sentenced to six years for fake Biden-Ukraine bribery allegations</a>
&ldquo;We're prepared to do anything and everything as long as it takes to tame these fires and help reconstruct,&rdquo; Biden said.
&ldquo;It's going to be a hell of a long way. It's going to take time. But the federal government's here to stay,&rdquo; he added.
<h2>LA wildfires: Death toll rises</h2>
In America's second-biggest city, over 1,000 buildings have been incinerated by three fires that have left firefighters overwhelmed by their speed and ferocity. The death toll from the devastating wildfires rampaging Los Angeles has risen to five, said officials on Wednesday (Jan 8), warning that it may rise further. Around 70,000 residents are under evacuation orders, as fire crews battle the wildfires amid resource challenges, as hydrants in Pacific Palisades run dry.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World News | Discover the facts behind Trump's accusations against Governor Gavin Newsom and the role of California's water management in the ongoing wildfire crisis.

United States President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jan 8) wrongly, blamed California Governor Gavin Newsom and the state's environmental policies for water shortages exasperating the wildfires in Los Angeles. Trump's false accusations Trump claimed that Newsom “refused to sign the water restoration declaration put before him that would have allowed millions of gallons of water,” to protect an “essentially worthless fish called a smelt”. Also read | LA wildfires: Five dead as fires continue to burn with 'zero containment' However, according to AFP, much of Los Angeles' water supply comes from the Colorado River, with agriculture being the primary consumer. Trump, whose inauguration is less than two weeks away, said he was looking forward to January 20th. Also read | Los Angeles fire: 2 dead, several 'significantly' injured as Palisades fire spreads across 2,000 acres “As of this moment, Gavin Newscum and his Los Angeles crew have contained exactly ZERO percent of the fire. It is burning at levels that even surpass last night. This is not Government,” he said, adding, “I can’t wait till January 20th!”. The president-elect also slammed his predecessor, incumbent President Joe Biden, and said, “No water in the fire hydrants, no money in FEMA. This is what Joe Biden is leaving me. Thanks Joe!” Meanwhile, President Joe Biden, who arrived in Los Angeles on Monday (Jan 6) to designate a new national monument, pledged unwavering support while visiting the disaster zone with Governor Newsom. Also read | Ex-FBI informant Alexander Smirnov sentenced to six years for fake Biden-Ukraine bribery allegations “We're prepared to do anything and everything as long as it takes to tame these fires and help reconstruct,” Biden said. “It's going to be a hell of a long way. It's going to take time. But the federal government's here to stay,” he added. LA wildfires: Death toll rises In America's second-biggest city, over 1,000 buildings have been incinerated by three fires that have left firefighters overwhelmed by their speed and ferocity. The death toll from the devastating wildfires rampaging Los Angeles has risen to five, said officials on Wednesday (Jan 8), warning that it may rise further. Around 70,000 residents are under evacuation orders, as fire crews battle the wildfires amid resource challenges, as hydrants in Pacific Palisades run dry. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump blames California environmental policies for LA wildfires

Alexander Smirnov, the disgraced former FBI informant who falsely accused incumbent US president Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden of taking a $10 million bribe from Ukraine, was sentenced to six years in prison on Wednesday (Jan 8).&nbsp;
<h2>False claims and election interference&nbsp;</h2>
Smirnov pleaded guilty last month to causing the creation of a false FBI record and multiple counts of tax evasion after lying to his FBI handler that he had information about bribes accepted by the Bidens.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/la-wildfires-five-dead-thousands-evacuated-as-catastrophic-inferno-burns-with-zero-containment-8603305">LA wildfires: Five dead as fires continue to burn with 'zero containment'</a>
Prosecutors revealed that Smirnov fabricated claims in 2020, alleging executives at Burisma Holdings paid Joe and Hunter Biden $5 million each in bribes to protect the company while Joe Biden served as vice president.&nbsp;
Smirnov's false statements included claims that Burisma hired Hunter Biden to &ldquo;protect us, through his dad, from all kinds of problems.&rdquo;
&ldquo;The defendant decided in 2020 to exploit the position of trust he enjoyed with the FBI in order to provide false information about one of the candidates for President of the United States in an attempt to influence the outcome of the election,&rdquo; prosecutors wrote in a court filing.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/world/denmark-says-greenland-can-be-independent-but-not-part-of-united-states-8603224">Denmark says Greenland can be 'independent' but not part of United States</a>
Calling the ex-FBI informant a &ldquo;liar and a tax cheat&rdquo;, they said that he &ldquo;betrayed&rdquo; the US and that the corruption allegations he cooked up against Joe Biden were &ldquo;among the most serious kinds of election interference one can imagine,&rdquo; because they roiled both the 2020 and 2024 election cycles. Smirnov has been ordered to pay $675,000 in restitution for tax evasion to the IRS.
<h2>Republicans and Smirnov</h2>
Republican lawmakers, as per Reuters learned of Smirnov's accusations, which briefly became the focus of now-abandoned attempts to impeach Biden.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-president-mocks-trumps-gulf-of-america-proposal-suggests-mexican-america-instead-8603211">Mexico President mocks Trump&rsquo;s 'Gulf of America' proposal, suggests 'Mexican America' instead</a>&nbsp;
In the run-up to the 2024 campaign, Republicans brought national attention to Smirnov&rsquo;s allegations, touting his record as an FBI informant. Their claims quickly went viral, and this scrutiny led Special Counsel David Weiss' team to re-examine Smirnov, ultimately concluding he had repeatedly lied to federal authorities.
Weiss' investigation into Hunter Biden and related matters, Smirnov's bombshell indictment&mdash;and the subsequent public repudiation of his fake bribery claims&mdash;helped derail the Republican impeachment push against Biden.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tibet-earthquake-aftershocks-continue-to-rattle-region-8603151">Tibet earthquake: Aftershocks continue to rattle region</a>
By 2023, congressional Republicans revived Smirnov's accusations, drawing national attention to his role as an informant. This scrutiny led Weiss' team to re-examine Smirnov, ultimately concluding he &ldquo;was lying&rdquo; and &ldquo;should be prosecuted himself&rdquo;.&nbsp;
The case also intersected with Weiss&rsquo; broader investigation into Hunter Biden, who faced tax and gun-related charges. While Hunter Biden was convicted on several counts, President Joe Biden issued a sweeping pardon for his son last month, ending those prosecutions.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World news | Discover how ex-FBI informant Alexander Smirnov's fabricated bribery allegations against Joe Biden and Hunter Biden led to a six-year prison sentence and major election interference.

Alexander Smirnov, the disgraced former FBI informant who falsely accused incumbent US president Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden of taking a $10 million bribe from Ukraine, was sentenced to six years in prison on Wednesday (Jan 8). False claims and election interference Smirnov pleaded guilty last month to causing the creation of a false FBI record and multiple counts of tax evasion after lying to his FBI handler that he had information about bribes accepted by the Bidens. Also read | LA wildfires: Five dead as fires continue to burn with 'zero containment' Prosecutors revealed that Smirnov fabricated claims in 2020, alleging executives at Burisma Holdings paid Joe and Hunter Biden $5 million each in bribes to protect the company while Joe Biden served as vice president. Smirnov's false statements included claims that Burisma hired Hunter Biden to “protect us, through his dad, from all kinds of problems.” “The defendant decided in 2020 to exploit the position of trust he enjoyed with the FBI in order to provide false information about one of the candidates for President of the United States in an attempt to influence the outcome of the election,” prosecutors wrote in a court filing. Also read | Denmark says Greenland can be 'independent' but not part of United States Calling the ex-FBI informant a “liar and a tax cheat”, they said that he “betrayed” the US and that the corruption allegations he cooked up against Joe Biden were “among the most serious kinds of election interference one can imagine,” because they roiled both the 2020 and 2024 election cycles. Smirnov has been ordered to pay $675,000 in restitution for tax evasion to the IRS. Republicans and Smirnov Republican lawmakers, as per Reuters learned of Smirnov's accusations, which briefly became the focus of now-abandoned attempts to impeach Biden. Also read | Mexico President mocks Trump’s 'Gulf of America' proposal, suggests 'Mexican America' instead In the run-up to the 2024 campaign, Republicans brought national attention to Smirnov’s allegations, touting his record as an FBI informant. Their claims quickly went viral, and this scrutiny led Special Counsel David Weiss' team to re-examine Smirnov, ultimately concluding he had repeatedly lied to federal authorities. Weiss' investigation into Hunter Biden and related matters, Smirnov's bombshell indictment—and the subsequent public repudiation of his fake bribery claims—helped derail the Republican impeachment push against Biden. Also read | Tibet earthquake: Aftershocks continue to rattle region By 2023, congressional Republicans revived Smirnov's accusations, drawing national attention to his role as an informant. This scrutiny led Weiss' team to re-examine Smirnov, ultimately concluding he “was lying” and “should be prosecuted himself”. The case also intersected with Weiss’ broader investigation into Hunter Biden, who faced tax and gun-related charges. While Hunter Biden was convicted on several counts, President Joe Biden issued a sweeping pardon for his son last month, ending those prosecutions. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-FBI informant Alexander Smirnov sentenced to six years for fake Biden-Ukraine bribery allegations

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum mocked US President-elect Donald Trump&rsquo;s recent suggestion to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of America." In a statement on Wednesday (Jan 08), she proposed renaming North America as "Mexican America," a term that appeared on a historical map of the region.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/los-angeles-fire-2-dead-several-significantly-injured-as-palisades-fire-spreads-across-2000-acres-8603147">Los Angeles fire: 2 dead, several 'significantly' injured as Palisades fire spreads across 2,000 acres</a>
"Why don't we call it (the United States) Mexican America? It sounds nice, doesn't it?" Sheinbaum said, referring to a 1607 map that depicted an early representation of North America. She pointed out that the name &ldquo;Mexican America&rdquo; has historical roots. "He talked about name, we too are talking about the name," she said.
Addressing other claims made by Trump, Sheinbaum rejected his assertion that Mexico is "run by the cartels." She said, "In Mexico, the people are in charge," adding that the government is actively working to resolve the country&rsquo;s security challenges. Claudia Sheinbaum said, "In Mexico, the people rule."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-think-yes-but-biden-says-he-could-have-beaten-trump-8603119">&lsquo;I think yes but...,&rsquo; Biden says he could have beaten Trump</a>
Despite the exchange of comments, she said she expected to have "good relations" with the incoming US president. "I think there will be a good relationship," she said. "President Trump has his way of communicating."
Donald Trump, who is set to begin his second term as US president on January 20, announced his plans on Tuesday to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of America." Describing the idea, he said, "It has a beautiful ring."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/antony-blinken-donald-trump-greenland-expansion-bid-8603116">&lsquo;Not a good idea,&rsquo; Blinken rubbishes Trump&rsquo;s Greenland bid</a>
Trump explained his reasoning, saying, "It's appropriate. And Mexico has to stop allowing millions of people to pour into our country." In addition, he accused Mexico of being controlled by drug cartels.&nbsp;
As he prepares to return to office, Trump has intensified his criticism of Mexico. He has issued threats to impose steep tariffs on Mexican imports unless measures are taken to curb illegal immigration and drug trafficking across the border.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-defends-musk-says-x-boss-free-to-express-his-views-8602948">Blinken defends Musk, says Trump aide 'has right to express his views'</a>
Trump has also revived an earlier proposal from his first term to label Mexican drug cartels as terrorist organisations.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: "Why don't we call it (the United States) Mexican America? It sounds nice, doesn't it?" Sheinbaum said, referring to a 1607 map that depicted an early representation of North America.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum mocked US President-elect Donald Trump’s recent suggestion to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of America." In a statement on Wednesday (Jan 08), she proposed renaming North America as "Mexican America," a term that appeared on a historical map of the region. Also read: Los Angeles fire: 2 dead, several 'significantly' injured as Palisades fire spreads across 2,000 acres "Why don't we call it (the United States) Mexican America? It sounds nice, doesn't it?" Sheinbaum said, referring to a 1607 map that depicted an early representation of North America. She pointed out that the name “Mexican America” has historical roots. "He talked about name, we too are talking about the name," she said. Addressing other claims made by Trump, Sheinbaum rejected his assertion that Mexico is "run by the cartels." She said, "In Mexico, the people are in charge," adding that the government is actively working to resolve the country’s security challenges. Claudia Sheinbaum said, "In Mexico, the people rule." Also read: ‘I think yes but...,’ Biden says he could have beaten Trump Despite the exchange of comments, she said she expected to have "good relations" with the incoming US president. "I think there will be a good relationship," she said. "President Trump has his way of communicating." Donald Trump, who is set to begin his second term as US president on January 20, announced his plans on Tuesday to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of America." Describing the idea, he said, "It has a beautiful ring." Also read: ‘Not a good idea,’ Blinken rubbishes Trump’s Greenland bid Trump explained his reasoning, saying, "It's appropriate. And Mexico has to stop allowing millions of people to pour into our country." In addition, he accused Mexico of being controlled by drug cartels. As he prepares to return to office, Trump has intensified his criticism of Mexico. He has issued threats to impose steep tariffs on Mexican imports unless measures are taken to curb illegal immigration and drug trafficking across the border. Also read: Blinken defends Musk, says Trump aide 'has right to express his views' Trump has also revived an earlier proposal from his first term to label Mexican drug cartels as terrorist organisations. (With inputs from agencies)

Mexico President mocks Trump’s 'Gulf of America' proposal, suggests 'Mexican America' instead

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