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Thousands of South Koreans braved a snowstorm on Sunday (January 5) to rally&nbsp;both in support of and against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yoon-suk-yeol-investigators-trying-to-arrest-s-korean-prez-blocked-by-military-unit-8586886">President Yoon Suk Yeol</a>, who has been impeached over attempting to impose martial law in the country. Some demonstrators called for Yoon&rsquo;s arrest, while others demanded his impeachment be nullified.&nbsp;Yoon has been resisting arrest as the&nbsp;deadline for the warrant approaches on Monday.
Chief of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yoon-suk-yeol-investigators-trying-to-arrest-s-korean-prez-blocked-by-military-unit-8586886">Presidential Security Service</a> (PSS), Park Jong-joon, said on Sunday that he would not allow investigators to detain Yoon before the warrant expired on Monday. Park argued that his team was legally bound to ensure the president's safety.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-protest-in-seoul-as-south-koreas-president-defies-arrest-in-martial-law-row-8591270">Thousands protest in Seoul as South Korea&rsquo;s suspended president Yoon Suk Yeol defies arrest in martial law row</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5jooqt7-qdb9ml5k-tsg21yc2">
[SOS] TO ALL PEOPLE WATCHING SOUTH KOREA 🇰🇷 The 'Stop The Steal' movement and Yoon's radical supporters are insane. Yoon and his old supporters have consumed so many radical youtube videos. Impeachment is the only way Korea can save itself. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SouthKorea?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SouthKorea</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/President?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#President</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Protest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Protest</a> <a href="https://t.co/LS2z5gtPas">pic.twitter.com/LS2z5gtPas</a>
&mdash; Marooliv (@MaroolivDev) <a href="https://twitter.com/MaroolivDev/status/1875878126116638738?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
&ldquo;Executing an arrest warrant amid allegations of procedural and legal impropriety undermines the PSS's fundamental mission of securing the President's absolute safety,&rdquo; Park said in a public statement. He also refused to comply with a police request for questioning.
Yoon faces serious criminal charges, including insurrection, which is one of the few offences not covered by presidential immunity. If convicted, he could face imprisonment or, even the death penalty.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-orleans-terror-attack-jabbar-barricades-were-not-safe-warned-experts-in-2019-8593638">New Orleans terror attack could have been prevented? Shocking reports reveal warnings</a>
A Seoul court on Sunday rejected Yoon&rsquo;s attempt to invalidate warrants for his arrest and the search of the presidential residence. According to court officials, the Seoul Western District Court dismissed the injunction, which Yoon&rsquo;s legal team had argued was based on &ldquo;illegal&rdquo; procedures.
<h2>Yoon&rsquo;s lawyer to file formal complaint against head of South Korea&rsquo;s anti-corruption agency</h2>
Meanwhile, Yoon&rsquo;s lawyer announced plans to file a formal complaint against the head of South Korea&rsquo;s anti-corruption agency and police officers involved in the warrant execution. &ldquo;The charges will include obstruction of justice, illegal entry, and violations of military facility protection laws,&rdquo; the lawyer stated.
The opposition Democratic Party has demanded the dissolution of the security service protecting Yoon. This comes after hundreds of Yoon&rsquo;s guards and military personnel prevented investigators from arresting him, ultimately leading to officials abandoning the attempt over safety concerns.
The Constitutional Court has set 14 January as the start date for Yoon&rsquo;s impeachment trial. Although he is not required to attend, Yoon plans to appear at a &ldquo;suitable session&rdquo; during the trial&rsquo;s five scheduled hearings, according to his lawyer.
The Constitutional Court has 180 days to decide whether to dismiss Yoon from office or reinstate his authority. If the impeachment is upheld, South Korea will hold elections within 60 days.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Chief of the Presidential Security Service (PSS), Park Jong-joon, said on Sunday that he would not allow investigators to detain Yoon before the warrant expired on Monday.

Thousands of South Koreans braved a snowstorm on Sunday (January 5) to rally both in support of and against President Yoon Suk Yeol, who has been impeached over attempting to impose martial law in the country. Some demonstrators called for Yoon’s arrest, while others demanded his impeachment be nullified. Yoon has been resisting arrest as the deadline for the warrant approaches on Monday. Chief of the Presidential Security Service (PSS), Park Jong-joon, said on Sunday that he would not allow investigators to detain Yoon before the warrant expired on Monday. Park argued that his team was legally bound to ensure the president's safety. Also read: Thousands protest in Seoul as South Korea’s suspended president Yoon Suk Yeol defies arrest in martial law row [SOS] TO ALL PEOPLE WATCHING SOUTH KOREA 🇰🇷 The 'Stop The Steal' movement and Yoon's radical supporters are insane. Yoon and his old supporters have consumed so many radical youtube videos. Impeachment is the only way Korea can save itself. #SouthKorea #President #Protest pic.twitter.com/LS2z5gtPas — Marooliv (@MaroolivDev) January 5, 2025 “Executing an arrest warrant amid allegations of procedural and legal impropriety undermines the PSS's fundamental mission of securing the President's absolute safety,” Park said in a public statement. He also refused to comply with a police request for questioning. Yoon faces serious criminal charges, including insurrection, which is one of the few offences not covered by presidential immunity. If convicted, he could face imprisonment or, even the death penalty. Also read: New Orleans terror attack could have been prevented? Shocking reports reveal warnings A Seoul court on Sunday rejected Yoon’s attempt to invalidate warrants for his arrest and the search of the presidential residence. According to court officials, the Seoul Western District Court dismissed the injunction, which Yoon’s legal team had argued was based on “illegal” procedures. Yoon’s lawyer to file formal complaint against head of South Korea’s anti-corruption agency Meanwhile, Yoon’s lawyer announced plans to file a formal complaint against the head of South Korea’s anti-corruption agency and police officers involved in the warrant execution. “The charges will include obstruction of justice, illegal entry, and violations of military facility protection laws,” the lawyer stated. The opposition Democratic Party has demanded the dissolution of the security service protecting Yoon. This comes after hundreds of Yoon’s guards and military personnel prevented investigators from arresting him, ultimately leading to officials abandoning the attempt over safety concerns. The Constitutional Court has set 14 January as the start date for Yoon’s impeachment trial. Although he is not required to attend, Yoon plans to appear at a “suitable session” during the trial’s five scheduled hearings, according to his lawyer. The Constitutional Court has 180 days to decide whether to dismiss Yoon from office or reinstate his authority. If the impeachment is upheld, South Korea will hold elections within 60 days. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea political crisis: Thousands brave snow to rally for, against impeached President Yoon

Days after the New Orelans terror attack left 14 people dead on New Year's night, reports are saying it could have been prevented if authorities had paid heed to safety warnings issued as far back as 2019. The warnings came from a security firm that put the risk of terrorism in the French Quarter as 'highly possible,' multiple US media reports said. And the barricades in place at the area on the night of the attack were not capable of blocking the vehicle, even as better equipment had already been contracted.
The security firm's warning in 2019 had even specifically mentioned mass shootings and vehicular attacks as 'highly possible and moderately probable', said a report on CNN.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosives-discovered-at-new-orleans-attackers-home-say-officials-8592470">Explosives discovered at New Orleans attacker's home, say officials</a>
Texas-based US Army veteran Shamsud-Din Jabbar rammed his 6,000-pound, seven-foot-wide pickup truck through a sidewalk at 3.15 am local time on Wednesday (Jan 1) in an attack inspired by terror group Islamic State.
He was shot dead by police.
<h2>Better barriers were available, but not deployed</h2>
NBC News channel noted in a report that new, 700-pound steel barriers were put on Bourbon Street only a day after Jabbar rammed his car into the holiday crowd. Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-to-visit-new-orleans-on-monday-to-grieve-with-victims-families-meet-officials-8589173">Biden to visit New Orleans on Monday; to grieve with victims' families, meet officials</a>
It said the barriers had in fact been already contracted and available with the city.
On New Year's Day, the French Quarter lacked these barriers, which made it easy for Jabbar to plow into the crowd.
<h2>New Orleans security planners chose ease of passing over safety: Report</h2>
An investigative report by the Reuters news agency said the city 'chose ease over safety' with regards to street barriers. It installed barriers meant for attacks at the speed of 10 miles per hour.
This decision, according Reuters, was made after assessing possible scenarios of a potential attack. That assessment was done using a Ford F-150, which was similar to the vehicle used in the New Year attack.
Such a vehicle could ram in at speeds as high as 70mph, far above the resisting power of the barriers that had been in place on the fateful night.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-orleans-attackers-recordings-reveal-extreme-religious-views-on-music-sex-intoxicants-8587834">New Orleans attacker&rsquo;s recordings reveal extreme religious views on music, sex, intoxicants</a>
Reuters looked into contract documents for barriers, or bollards, as well as engineering analysis done ahead of the attack.
Newly contracted barriers were supposed to have been put in place only by 9 February, when New Orleans is set to host the NFL Super Bowl.
"The documents reviewed by Reuters...make clear that the system won&rsquo;t be able to prevent vehicle attacks at moderate to high speeds," said the news agency.
<h2>An 'open road' led to preventable tragedy?</h2>
The Reuters report pointed out that Bourbon Street, the site of the carnage, is usually open to vehicular traffic for much of the day, with some blockades put in parts of it during evenings.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-orleans-terror-attack-by-shamsud-din-jabbar-victims-identities-age-family-what-we-know-about-them-8590856">New Orleans terror attack victims' stories: 'He said he'll be alright, but...'</a>
On the night of the attack, the specific road from which the attacker entered - Canal and Bourbon- had no bollards.
The only security on that road was a police SUV cruiser, parked sideways.
Another gap in security preparation was that the authorities, during security planning, did not anticipate the attacker to ram through a sidewalk, which he did.
<h2>The 2019 warning</h2>
According to multiple reports, a private security consultancy firm had warned that the bollards in the area "did not appear to work".&nbsp;
They were 'being fixed' when the attack took place, New York Times reported.
The security firm, based out of New York, had suggested that barriers should be fixed immediately.
&ldquo;The two modes of terror attack likely to be used are vehicular ramming and active shooting,&rdquo; NYT quoted the firm as having warned.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

Trending | World | New Orleans terror attack safety issues revealed: Attack could have been prevented if barriers were in place. Report had warned of attacks in 2019

Days after the New Orelans terror attack left 14 people dead on New Year's night, reports are saying it could have been prevented if authorities had paid heed to safety warnings issued as far back as 2019. The warnings came from a security firm that put the risk of terrorism in the French Quarter as 'highly possible,' multiple US media reports said. And the barricades in place at the area on the night of the attack were not capable of blocking the vehicle, even as better equipment had already been contracted. The security firm's warning in 2019 had even specifically mentioned mass shootings and vehicular attacks as 'highly possible and moderately probable', said a report on CNN. Also read: Explosives discovered at New Orleans attacker's home, say officials Texas-based US Army veteran Shamsud-Din Jabbar rammed his 6,000-pound, seven-foot-wide pickup truck through a sidewalk at 3.15 am local time on Wednesday (Jan 1) in an attack inspired by terror group Islamic State. He was shot dead by police. Better barriers were available, but not deployed NBC News channel noted in a report that new, 700-pound steel barriers were put on Bourbon Street only a day after Jabbar rammed his car into the holiday crowd. Also read: Biden to visit New Orleans on Monday; to grieve with victims' families, meet officials It said the barriers had in fact been already contracted and available with the city. On New Year's Day, the French Quarter lacked these barriers, which made it easy for Jabbar to plow into the crowd. New Orleans security planners chose ease of passing over safety: Report An investigative report by the Reuters news agency said the city 'chose ease over safety' with regards to street barriers. It installed barriers meant for attacks at the speed of 10 miles per hour. This decision, according Reuters, was made after assessing possible scenarios of a potential attack. That assessment was done using a Ford F-150, which was similar to the vehicle used in the New Year attack. Such a vehicle could ram in at speeds as high as 70mph, far above the resisting power of the barriers that had been in place on the fateful night. Also read: New Orleans attacker’s recordings reveal extreme religious views on music, sex, intoxicants Reuters looked into contract documents for barriers, or bollards, as well as engineering analysis done ahead of the attack. Newly contracted barriers were supposed to have been put in place only by 9 February, when New Orleans is set to host the NFL Super Bowl. "The documents reviewed by Reuters...make clear that the system won’t be able to prevent vehicle attacks at moderate to high speeds," said the news agency. An 'open road' led to preventable tragedy? The Reuters report pointed out that Bourbon Street, the site of the carnage, is usually open to vehicular traffic for much of the day, with some blockades put in parts of it during evenings. Also read: New Orleans terror attack victims' stories: 'He said he'll be alright, but...' On the night of the attack, the specific road from which the attacker entered - Canal and Bourbon- had no bollards. The only security on that road was a police SUV cruiser, parked sideways. Another gap in security preparation was that the authorities, during security planning, did not anticipate the attacker to ram through a sidewalk, which he did. The 2019 warning According to multiple reports, a private security consultancy firm had warned that the bollards in the area "did not appear to work". They were 'being fixed' when the attack took place, New York Times reported. The security firm, based out of New York, had suggested that barriers should be fixed immediately. “The two modes of terror attack likely to be used are vehicular ramming and active shooting,” NYT quoted the firm as having warned. (With inputs from agencies)

New Orleans terror attack could have been prevented? Shocking reports reveal warnings

Elon Musk announces that Starlink is waiting for government approval to launch its services in Pakistan, aiming to provide satellite internet access.

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Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy, already convicted twice in separate cases since leaving office, goes on trial Monday on charges of accepting illegal campaign financing in an alleged pact with the late Libyan dictator Moamer Kadhafi.
The career of Sarkozy has been shadowed by legal troubles since he lost the 2012 presidential election. But he remains an influential figure for many on the right and is also known to regularly meet President Emmanuel Macron.
The fiercely ambitious and energetic politician, 69, who is married to the model and singer Carla Bruni, and while in power from 2007-2012 liked to be known as the "hyper-president", has been convicted in two cases, charged in another and is being investigated in connection with two more.
Sarkozy will be in the dock at the Paris court barely half a month after France's top appeals court on December 18 rejected his appeal against a one-year prison sentence for influence peddling, which he is to serve by wearing an electronic bracelet rather than in jail.
The latest trial is the result of a decade of investigations into accusations that Sarkozy accepted illegal campaign financing -- reportedly amounting to some 50 million euros -- from Kadhafi to help his victorious 2007 election campaign.
In exchange, it is alleged, Sarkozy and senior figures pledged to help Kadhafi rehabilitate his international image after Tripoli was blamed for bombing attacks on Pan Am Flight 103 in 1988 over Lockerbie in Scotland and UTA Flight 772 in 1989 that killed hundreds of passengers.
Sarkozy has denounced the accusations as part of a conspiracy against him, insisting that he never received any financing for the campaign from Kadhafi and that there is no evidence of any such transfer.
<h2>'He will fight,' says lawyer&nbsp;</h2>
At a time when many Western countries were courting Kadhafi for energy deals as the maverick dictator sought to emerge from decades of international isolation, the Libyan leader in December 2007 visited Paris, famously installing his tent in the centre of the city.
But France then backed the UN-sanctioned military action that helped in 2011 oust Kadhafi, who was then killed by rebels. Sarkozy has said allegations from former members of Kadhafi's inner circle over the alleged campaign financing are motivated by revenge.
If convicted, Sarkozy faces up to 10 years in prison under the charges of concealing embezzlement of public funds and illegal campaign financing. The trial is due to last until April 10.
Sarkozy "is awaiting these four months of hearings with determination. He will fight the artificial construction dreamed up by the prosecution. There was no Libyan financing of the campaign," said his lawyer Christophe Ingrain.
Among 12 others facing trial over the alleged Libyan financing are heavyweights such as Sarkozy's former right-hand man, Claude Gueant, his then-head of campaign financing, Eric Woerth, and former minister Brice Hortefeux.
"Claude Gueant will demonstrate that after more than ten years of investigation, none of the offences he is accused of have been proven," said his lawyer Philippe Bouchez El Ghozi, denouncing the cases as amounting to "assertions, hypotheses and other approximations."
<h2>Witness tampering charges&nbsp;</h2>
For the prosecution, the pact started in 2005 when Kadhafi and Sarkozy, then interior minister, met in Tripoli for a meeting ostensibly devoted to fighting illegal migration. But Sarkozy's defence counters that no trace of the illegal financing was ever found in the campaign coffers.
The scandal erupted in April 2012, while Sarkozy was in the throes of his re-election campaign, when the Mediapart website published a bombshell article based on a document purportedly from December 2006, which it said showed a former Libyan official evoking an agreement over the campaign financing.
Sarkozy has long contended that the document is not genuine.&nbsp;
An embittered Sarkozy would later narrowly lose the second round of the election to Socialist Francois Hollande.
Franco-Lebanese businessman Ziad Takieddine, a key figure in the case, had claimed several times that he helped deliver up to five million euros ($5.4 million at current rates) in cash from Kadhafi to Sarkozy and his chief of staff in 2006 and 2007.&nbsp;
But in 2020, Takieddine suddenly retracted his incriminating statement, raising suspicions that Sarkozy and close allies may have paid the witness to change his mind.
In a further twist, Sarkozy was charged in October 2023 with illegal witness tampering, while Carla Bruni was last year charged with hiding evidence in the same case.
Sarkozy's second conviction, in another campaign financing case, was confirmed last year by a Paris appeals court, which ruled he should serve six months in prison, with another six months suspended. This verdict can still go to a higher domestic appeals court.
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: The latest trial is the result of a decade of investigations into accusations that Sarkozy accepted illegal campaign financing—reportedly amounting to some 50 million euros—from Kadhafi for his 2007 poll campaign.

Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy, already convicted twice in separate cases since leaving office, goes on trial Monday on charges of accepting illegal campaign financing in an alleged pact with the late Libyan dictator Moamer Kadhafi. The career of Sarkozy has been shadowed by legal troubles since he lost the 2012 presidential election. But he remains an influential figure for many on the right and is also known to regularly meet President Emmanuel Macron. The fiercely ambitious and energetic politician, 69, who is married to the model and singer Carla Bruni, and while in power from 2007-2012 liked to be known as the "hyper-president", has been convicted in two cases, charged in another and is being investigated in connection with two more. Sarkozy will be in the dock at the Paris court barely half a month after France's top appeals court on December 18 rejected his appeal against a one-year prison sentence for influence peddling, which he is to serve by wearing an electronic bracelet rather than in jail. The latest trial is the result of a decade of investigations into accusations that Sarkozy accepted illegal campaign financing -- reportedly amounting to some 50 million euros -- from Kadhafi to help his victorious 2007 election campaign. In exchange, it is alleged, Sarkozy and senior figures pledged to help Kadhafi rehabilitate his international image after Tripoli was blamed for bombing attacks on Pan Am Flight 103 in 1988 over Lockerbie in Scotland and UTA Flight 772 in 1989 that killed hundreds of passengers. Sarkozy has denounced the accusations as part of a conspiracy against him, insisting that he never received any financing for the campaign from Kadhafi and that there is no evidence of any such transfer. 'He will fight,' says lawyer At a time when many Western countries were courting Kadhafi for energy deals as the maverick dictator sought to emerge from decades of international isolation, the Libyan leader in December 2007 visited Paris, famously installing his tent in the centre of the city. But France then backed the UN-sanctioned military action that helped in 2011 oust Kadhafi, who was then killed by rebels. Sarkozy has said allegations from former members of Kadhafi's inner circle over the alleged campaign financing are motivated by revenge. If convicted, Sarkozy faces up to 10 years in prison under the charges of concealing embezzlement of public funds and illegal campaign financing. The trial is due to last until April 10. Sarkozy "is awaiting these four months of hearings with determination. He will fight the artificial construction dreamed up by the prosecution. There was no Libyan financing of the campaign," said his lawyer Christophe Ingrain. Among 12 others facing trial over the alleged Libyan financing are heavyweights such as Sarkozy's former right-hand man, Claude Gueant, his then-head of campaign financing, Eric Woerth, and former minister Brice Hortefeux. "Claude Gueant will demonstrate that after more than ten years of investigation, none of the offences he is accused of have been proven," said his lawyer Philippe Bouchez El Ghozi, denouncing the cases as amounting to "assertions, hypotheses and other approximations." Witness tampering charges For the prosecution, the pact started in 2005 when Kadhafi and Sarkozy, then interior minister, met in Tripoli for a meeting ostensibly devoted to fighting illegal migration. But Sarkozy's defence counters that no trace of the illegal financing was ever found in the campaign coffers. The scandal erupted in April 2012, while Sarkozy was in the throes of his re-election campaign, when the Mediapart website published a bombshell article based on a document purportedly from December 2006, which it said showed a former Libyan official evoking an agreement over the campaign financing. Sarkozy has long contended that the document is not genuine. An embittered Sarkozy would later narrowly lose the second round of the election to Socialist Francois Hollande. Franco-Lebanese businessman Ziad Takieddine, a key figure in the case, had claimed several times that he helped deliver up to five million euros ($5.4 million at current rates) in cash from Kadhafi to Sarkozy and his chief of staff in 2006 and 2007. But in 2020, Takieddine suddenly retracted his incriminating statement, raising suspicions that Sarkozy and close allies may have paid the witness to change his mind. In a further twist, Sarkozy was charged in October 2023 with illegal witness tampering, while Carla Bruni was last year charged with hiding evidence in the same case. Sarkozy's second conviction, in another campaign financing case, was confirmed last year by a Paris appeals court, which ruled he should serve six months in prison, with another six months suspended. This verdict can still go to a higher domestic appeals court. 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.

France's ex-president Sarkozy on trial over alleged Kadhafi pact

President Joe Biden&rsquo;s decision to award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to billionaire philanthropist George Soros has sparked a controversy, drawing sharp criticism from Republican leaders and public figures. Soros, founder of the Open Society Foundation, was recognised for his work in promoting democracy, human rights, and social justice.
<h2>Musk calls decision 'a travesty'</h2>
Tesla CEO Elon Musk was among the most vocal critics, labelling the move &ldquo;a travesty&rdquo; in a blunt post on X. His criticism resonated with supporters of Donald Trump&rsquo;s MAGA movement, who view Soros as a deeply divisive figure due to his support for Democratic causes.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A travesty that Biden is giving Soros the Medal of Freedom <a href="https://t.co/LGvGe8kqKE">https://t.co/LGvGe8kqKE</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1875520753753583678?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

&nbsp;
Vice President-elect JD Vance also mocked the choice, sarcastically suggesting on X that Biden might next honour &ldquo;Pol Pot and Count Dracula.&rdquo;
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Looking forward to Biden giving the Presidential Medal of Freedom (posthumously) to Pol Pot and Count Dracula.
&mdash; JD Vance (@JDVance) <a href="https://twitter.com/JDVance/status/1875658777854357909?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a></blockquote>

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

<h2>Political backlash &nbsp;</h2>
While Soros has been celebrated for his global advocacy, his long-standing support for liberal causes has made him a frequent target of Republican criticism.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/inhuman-terrorist-act-moscow-accuses-ukraine-of-deliberately-killing-russian-journalist-in-drone-strike-8593248">'Inhuman terrorist act': Moscow accuses Ukraine of 'deliberately' killing Russian journalist in drone strike</a>
The award was accepted on Soros&rsquo; behalf by his son, Alex Soros, at a ceremony recognising 19 honorees, including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, soccer icon Lionel Messi, and actors Michael J Fox and Denzel Washington.
Four individuals are being honoured posthumously, including former US Attorney General and New York Senator Robert F Kennedy, as well as George W Romney, a former Michigan governor and secretary of housing and urban development.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-hosts-italian-prime-minister-georgia-meloni-at-his-florida-resort-8592791">Donald Trump hosts Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at his Florida resort</a>
<h2>Biden defends honorees amid criticism &nbsp;</h2>
In response to the backlash, President Biden defended the selections, stating that the recipients embody American values and contribute to the nation&rsquo;s progress. Despite this, Soros&rsquo; inclusion continues to draw sharp political reactions, fueling ongoing debates about the role of partisanship in national honours.
(With inputs from images)

World | Tesla CEO Elon Musk was among the most vocal critics, labelling the move “a travesty” in a post on X. His criticism resonated with supporters of the MAGA movement, who view Soros as a deeply divisive figure.

President Joe Biden’s decision to award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to billionaire philanthropist George Soros has sparked a controversy, drawing sharp criticism from Republican leaders and public figures. Soros, founder of the Open Society Foundation, was recognised for his work in promoting democracy, human rights, and social justice. Musk calls decision 'a travesty' Tesla CEO Elon Musk was among the most vocal critics, labelling the move “a travesty” in a blunt post on X. His criticism resonated with supporters of Donald Trump’s MAGA movement, who view Soros as a deeply divisive figure due to his support for Democratic causes. A travesty that Biden is giving Soros the Medal of Freedom https://t.co/LGvGe8kqKE — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 4, 2025 Vice President-elect JD Vance also mocked the choice, sarcastically suggesting on X that Biden might next honour “Pol Pot and Count Dracula.” Looking forward to Biden giving the Presidential Medal of Freedom (posthumously) to Pol Pot and Count Dracula. — JD Vance (@JDVance) January 4, 2025 Political backlash While Soros has been celebrated for his global advocacy, his long-standing support for liberal causes has made him a frequent target of Republican criticism. Also Read | 'Inhuman terrorist act': Moscow accuses Ukraine of 'deliberately' killing Russian journalist in drone strike The award was accepted on Soros’ behalf by his son, Alex Soros, at a ceremony recognising 19 honorees, including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, soccer icon Lionel Messi, and actors Michael J Fox and Denzel Washington. Four individuals are being honoured posthumously, including former US Attorney General and New York Senator Robert F Kennedy, as well as George W Romney, a former Michigan governor and secretary of housing and urban development. Also Read | Donald Trump hosts Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at his Florida resort Biden defends honorees amid criticism In response to the backlash, President Biden defended the selections, stating that the recipients embody American values and contribute to the nation’s progress. Despite this, Soros’ inclusion continues to draw sharp political reactions, fueling ongoing debates about the role of partisanship in national honours. (With inputs from images)

'A travesty': Elon Musk, Republicans criticise Biden for honouring George Soros

A freelance journalist working for Russian state newspaper Izvestia has been killed in a drone strike near the Russian-controlled city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine, according to the publication.
Izvestia claimed that the attack targeted a civilian vehicle on a highway within a Russian-occupied area. Their correspondent Alexander Martemyanov and five other media workers were injured in the incident.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-implements-first-us-congestion-charge-scheme-amid-controversy-8593247">New York becomes first US city to implement congestion charge scheme despite Trump's objection</a>
&ldquo;The Ukrainian army launched a drone strike on a civilian car carrying Izvestia's freelance correspondent Alexander Martemyanov,&rdquo; the outlet wrote on its Telegram channel. They added that the car was &ldquo;far from the line of contact.&rdquo;&nbsp;
The news outlet, which has been blocked by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-diplomats-visit-syria-for-talks-with-de-facto-leader-sharaa-8588093" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">European Union</a> for allegedly spreading Russian propaganda, said that the vehicle was returning from reporting on shelling in the Russian-held city of Gorlivka when it was hit.
Russian officials have accused Ukraine&rsquo;s military of deliberately targeting Martemyanov, describing the attack as an &ldquo;inhuman terrorist act.&rdquo; In a statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said, &ldquo;Without a doubt, media representatives were deliberately chosen as targets for a deadly attack. This is also evidenced by the testimonies of those who survived the attack.&rdquo;
The ministry further called the killing &ldquo;yet another brutal crime in a series of bloody atrocities committed by the Zelensky regime, which openly resorts to terrorist methods to eliminate its ideological opponents.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-vows-retaliation-after-ukraine-fires-us-supplied-atacms-missiles-8591479">Russia vows 'retaliation' after Ukraine fires US-supplied ATACMS missiles</a>
<h2>'All guilty will be brought to inevitable punishment': Russia</h2>
Moscow has called on international organisations, including UNESCO, to respond to the incident. &ldquo;We demand that yet another brutal murder of a Russian war correspondent receive an appropriate response from Audrey Azoulay (UNESCO head), as prescribed by her mandate,&rdquo; said Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry.&nbsp;
Zakharova criticised <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-unesco-listed-rubab-faces-extinction-amid-talibans-music-ban-in-afghanistan-8575450">UNESCO</a> for failing to acknowledge Russian journalists who have been killed. She claimed that a recent draft report by the organisation&rsquo;s Director-General on journalist safety lacked any mention of Russian media reporters who have died. She accused UNESCO of being complicit in &ldquo;terrorist attacks&rdquo; through &ldquo;political distortions and statistical manipulations.&rdquo;
&ldquo;All those guilty of the crime against Russian journalists will be identified and brought to inevitable punishment,&rdquo; Zakharova added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: “The Ukrainian army launched a drone strike on a civilian car carrying Izvestia's freelance correspondent Alexander Martemyanov,” the outlet wrote on its Telegram channel. 

A freelance journalist working for Russian state newspaper Izvestia has been killed in a drone strike near the Russian-controlled city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine, according to the publication. Izvestia claimed that the attack targeted a civilian vehicle on a highway within a Russian-occupied area. Their correspondent Alexander Martemyanov and five other media workers were injured in the incident. Also read: New York becomes first US city to implement congestion charge scheme despite Trump's objection “The Ukrainian army launched a drone strike on a civilian car carrying Izvestia's freelance correspondent Alexander Martemyanov,” the outlet wrote on its Telegram channel. They added that the car was “far from the line of contact.” The news outlet, which has been blocked by the European Union for allegedly spreading Russian propaganda, said that the vehicle was returning from reporting on shelling in the Russian-held city of Gorlivka when it was hit. Russian officials have accused Ukraine’s military of deliberately targeting Martemyanov, describing the attack as an “inhuman terrorist act.” In a statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said, “Without a doubt, media representatives were deliberately chosen as targets for a deadly attack. This is also evidenced by the testimonies of those who survived the attack.” The ministry further called the killing “yet another brutal crime in a series of bloody atrocities committed by the Zelensky regime, which openly resorts to terrorist methods to eliminate its ideological opponents.” Also read: Russia vows 'retaliation' after Ukraine fires US-supplied ATACMS missiles 'All guilty will be brought to inevitable punishment': Russia Moscow has called on international organisations, including UNESCO, to respond to the incident. “We demand that yet another brutal murder of a Russian war correspondent receive an appropriate response from Audrey Azoulay (UNESCO head), as prescribed by her mandate,” said Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry. Zakharova criticised UNESCO for failing to acknowledge Russian journalists who have been killed. She claimed that a recent draft report by the organisation’s Director-General on journalist safety lacked any mention of Russian media reporters who have died. She accused UNESCO of being complicit in “terrorist attacks” through “political distortions and statistical manipulations.” “All those guilty of the crime against Russian journalists will be identified and brought to inevitable punishment,” Zakharova added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Inhuman terrorist act': Moscow accuses Ukraine of 'deliberately' killing Russian journalist in drone strike

A bomb blast orchestrated by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) targeted a passenger bus in Balochistan, Pakistan, leaving five people dead and 32 others injured.

Balochistan liberation army targets paramilitary bus in deadly attack

Elon Musk demands UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's resignation, alleging his involvement in covering up the UK's rape gang scandal.

Elon Musk calls for Keir  Starmer's resignation over rape gang scandal

The New York City has introduced the United States' first congestion charge scheme, aiming to tackle its infamous traffic woes. Drivers entering the congestion zone south of Central Park, which includes iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building, Times Square, and Wall Street, will face charges of up to $9 (&pound;7) per day during peak hours. Rates for other vehicles range from $2.25 during off-peak hours to $21.60 for larger trucks and tourist buses.
<h2>Trump and local Republicans oppose</h2>
The plan has sparked significant opposition, notably from US President-elect Donald Trump, who has even vowed to dismantle the scheme upon taking office later this month. Congressman Mike Lawler, representing a district just north of New York City, has also urged Trump to end what he called an "absurd congestion pricing cash grab."
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/authorities-begin-culling-after-bird-flu-outbreak-in-japan-8593238">Authorities begin culling after bird flu outbreak strike Japan farms</a>
The congestion charge comes after years of political disputes and legal hurdles. The scheme, initially proposed by New York Governor Kathy Hochul two years ago, underwent revisions following resistance from commuters and businesses. Neighbouring New Jersey filed a last-minute legal challenge to block the scheme but was unsuccessful, clearing the way for its implementation.
<h2>Resistance from Taxi drivers&nbsp;</h2>
Taxi drivers' associations and various commuter groups have criticised the charges, citing financial burdens. Businesses in Manhattan have also expressed concerns over potential negative impacts on customers and deliveries.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-weather-snow-storm-flight-disruptions-what-we-know-8593095">UK snow: Arctic blast snowstorm leads to airport runway closures, powercuts</a>
<h2>Goals of the scheme</h2>
Despite the backlash, the congestion charge aims to reduce vehicle traffic in one of the world's busiest urban areas while generating billions of dollars to improve New York's public transit system. With Trump promising to intervene, the scheme&rsquo;s future may depend on ongoing political dynamics and public response.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending: The congestion charge comes after years of political disputes and legal hurdles. The scheme proposed by Governor Kathy Hochul two years ago underwent revisions after resistance from commuters and businesses.

The New York City has introduced the United States' first congestion charge scheme, aiming to tackle its infamous traffic woes. Drivers entering the congestion zone south of Central Park, which includes iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building, Times Square, and Wall Street, will face charges of up to $9 (£7) per day during peak hours. Rates for other vehicles range from $2.25 during off-peak hours to $21.60 for larger trucks and tourist buses. Trump and local Republicans oppose The plan has sparked significant opposition, notably from US President-elect Donald Trump, who has even vowed to dismantle the scheme upon taking office later this month. Congressman Mike Lawler, representing a district just north of New York City, has also urged Trump to end what he called an "absurd congestion pricing cash grab." Also Read | Authorities begin culling after bird flu outbreak strike Japan farms The congestion charge comes after years of political disputes and legal hurdles. The scheme, initially proposed by New York Governor Kathy Hochul two years ago, underwent revisions following resistance from commuters and businesses. Neighbouring New Jersey filed a last-minute legal challenge to block the scheme but was unsuccessful, clearing the way for its implementation. Resistance from Taxi drivers Taxi drivers' associations and various commuter groups have criticised the charges, citing financial burdens. Businesses in Manhattan have also expressed concerns over potential negative impacts on customers and deliveries. Also Read | UK snow: Arctic blast snowstorm leads to airport runway closures, powercuts Goals of the scheme Despite the backlash, the congestion charge aims to reduce vehicle traffic in one of the world's busiest urban areas while generating billions of dollars to improve New York's public transit system. With Trump promising to intervene, the scheme’s future may depend on ongoing political dynamics and public response. (With inputs from agencies)

New York becomes first US city to implement congestion charge scheme despite Trump's objection

A tragic helicopter crash during a training sortie in Gujarat's Porbandar results in the deaths of three Indian Coast Guard personnel.

Indian coast guard helicopter crashes in Gujarat, three dead during training

Airports in several UK cities have had to close runways as a severe snowstorm hit parts of the country on Sunday (Jan 5). The John Lennon Airport in Liverpool and the Birmingham Airport are among those that shut their runways for some time after heavy snowfall overnight, which has disrupted travel and life in several areas. The bad weather is being attributed to an 'Arctic blast' sweeping across the northern hemisphere.
Manchester Airport reopened its runway but warned of further delays. In spite of snow-time operating procedures in place, security checks could take longer.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/heavy-snow-blankets-s-koreas-wider-seoul-eastern-regions">Heavy snow blankets S. Korea's wider Seoul, eastern regions</a>
<h2>Bad weather causes power cuts, road travel disruptions</h2>
Parts of Britain are facing power cuts due to heavy snow, even as temperatures fell below 11 degrees Celcius in Scotland. National Highways warned that northern England roads could see heavy snowfall of up to 25 centimetres.
There has been traffic chaos on the air and road in much of the UK.&nbsp; 
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/half-of-united-states-to-witness-heaviest-snowfall-of-decade-with-frigid-conditions-8592925" rel="dofollow">&nbsp;Half of United States to witness heaviest snowfall of decade with frigid conditions</a>
Two amber alerts are in place in England, Wales, and Scotland. Amber warning means there's increased risk and severity due to the bad weather.
<h2>UK weather: Met Office forecast for snow, sleet and rains</h2>
In an advisory on its website, the UK Met Office predicted snow and sleet across the north of the country on Sunday. It expected sleet to spread across northern England and into southern Scotland.&nbsp;
Freezing rain will affect parts of north Wales and central England in the couple of days ahead, it warned.
The situation with heavy rains and sleet will continue into Monday in both north and south.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

UK weather | UK flights | World | Trending: A severe snowstorm has swept across the United Kingdom, bringing significant disruptions to daily life. This intense weather event has led to the closure of several airport runways.

Airports in several UK cities have had to close runways as a severe snowstorm hit parts of the country on Sunday (Jan 5). The John Lennon Airport in Liverpool and the Birmingham Airport are among those that shut their runways for some time after heavy snowfall overnight, which has disrupted travel and life in several areas. The bad weather is being attributed to an 'Arctic blast' sweeping across the northern hemisphere. Manchester Airport reopened its runway but warned of further delays. In spite of snow-time operating procedures in place, security checks could take longer. Also read: Heavy snow blankets S. Korea's wider Seoul, eastern regions Bad weather causes power cuts, road travel disruptions Parts of Britain are facing power cuts due to heavy snow, even as temperatures fell below 11 degrees Celcius in Scotland. National Highways warned that northern England roads could see heavy snowfall of up to 25 centimetres. There has been traffic chaos on the air and road in much of the UK. Also read: Half of United States to witness heaviest snowfall of decade with frigid conditions Two amber alerts are in place in England, Wales, and Scotland. Amber warning means there's increased risk and severity due to the bad weather. UK weather: Met Office forecast for snow, sleet and rains In an advisory on its website, the UK Met Office predicted snow and sleet across the north of the country on Sunday. It expected sleet to spread across northern England and into southern Scotland. Freezing rain will affect parts of north Wales and central England in the couple of days ahead, it warned. The situation with heavy rains and sleet will continue into Monday in both north and south. (With inputs from agencies)

UK snow: Arctic blast snowstorm leads to airport runway closures, powercuts

Japanese authorities have started culling about 50,000 chickens on Sunday (Jan 5) following a bird flu outbreak at a farm.
The outbreak happened in the northern Iwate region and marks the 19th incident of the season, according to the Agriculture Ministry of Japan.
The recent incident came to light after the farm reported increasing deaths of fowl, after which tests were conducted that confirmed on Sunday (Jan 5) the cause to be bird flu.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-reports-first-severe-case-of-bird-flu-in-human-says-cdc-785088" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">United States reports first severe case of bird flu in human, says CDC</a>
The news has prompted authorities to begin culling 50,000 chickens, the regional government of Iwate said. Iwate has also imposed a ban on the movements of 170,000 birds from two other nearby farms that fall under a three-kilometre (1.86-mile) radius.
Apart from this, some 3.8 million birds that are kept within a 10-kilometre area are also to stay within the zone for now.
On Thursday (Jan 2), another farm in the Iwate with 120,000 birds and a company in the central Aichi region with 147,000 birds were affected by the virus and started killing the birds.
On December 29, an outbreak occurred at a farm in eastern Ibaraki, which led to the killing of 1.08 million birds kept there.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bird-flu-outbreak-in-california-cdc-identifies-mutations-in-first-severe-human-infection-in-us-8570607" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Bird flu outbreak in California: CDC identifies mutations in first severe human infection in US</a>
<h2>Bird flu outbreak in US and England</h2>
Apart from Japan, bird flu outbreaks have also been reported in the United States and England.&nbsp;
US President Joe Biden has announced an allocation of $306 million to boost the country&rsquo;s response to bird flu amid the ongoing spread of the virus. The funding will help in improving preparedness, monitoring programmes, and research for developing countermeasures against the H5N1 virus.
Multiple bird flu cases have also been detected across England, prompting enforcement of protective zones and preemptive culling.
(With inputs from agencies)

The outbreak happened in the northern Iwate region and marks the 19th incident of the season. Authorities started culling after tests confirmed bird flu as the cause of fowl deaths.

Japanese authorities have started culling about 50,000 chickens on Sunday (Jan 5) following a bird flu outbreak at a farm. The outbreak happened in the northern Iwate region and marks the 19th incident of the season, according to the Agriculture Ministry of Japan. The recent incident came to light after the farm reported increasing deaths of fowl, after which tests were conducted that confirmed on Sunday (Jan 5) the cause to be bird flu. Also read | United States reports first severe case of bird flu in human, says CDC The news has prompted authorities to begin culling 50,000 chickens, the regional government of Iwate said. Iwate has also imposed a ban on the movements of 170,000 birds from two other nearby farms that fall under a three-kilometre (1.86-mile) radius. Apart from this, some 3.8 million birds that are kept within a 10-kilometre area are also to stay within the zone for now. On Thursday (Jan 2), another farm in the Iwate with 120,000 birds and a company in the central Aichi region with 147,000 birds were affected by the virus and started killing the birds. On December 29, an outbreak occurred at a farm in eastern Ibaraki, which led to the killing of 1.08 million birds kept there. Also read | Bird flu outbreak in California: CDC identifies mutations in first severe human infection in US Bird flu outbreak in US and England Apart from Japan, bird flu outbreaks have also been reported in the United States and England. US President Joe Biden has announced an allocation of $306 million to boost the country’s response to bird flu amid the ongoing spread of the virus. The funding will help in improving preparedness, monitoring programmes, and research for developing countermeasures against the H5N1 virus. Multiple bird flu cases have also been detected across England, prompting enforcement of protective zones and preemptive culling. (With inputs from agencies)

Authorities begin culling after bird flu outbreak strikes Japan farm

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