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Former Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh passed away at the age of 92, in the national capital on Thursday (Dec 26), Delhi's All India Medical Institute (AIIMS) confirmed in a press release. Watch in for more details!

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Finnish authorities said Thursday that they were investigating an oil tanker that sailed from a Russian port over the "sabotage" of a power cable linking Finland and Estonia that was damaged the previous day.
On Christmas Day, the Estlink 2 submarine cable that carries electricity from Finland to Estonia was disconnected from the grid, just over a month after two telecommunications cables were severed in Swedish territorial waters in the Baltic Sea.&nbsp;
Robin Lardot of Finland's National Bureau of Investigation said a probe for "aggravated sabotage" had been opened into the oil tanker Eagle S, which flies under the flag of the Cook Islands in the South Pacific.
"The assumption at the moment is that it is a shadow fleet vessel and the cargo was unleaded petrol loaded in a Russian port," said Sami Rakshit, director general of Finnish Customs.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-accuses-china-of-blocking-probe-of-ship-linked-to-cut-baltic-sea-cables-786274">Sweden accuses China of blocking probe of ship linked to Baltic Sea cables damage</a>
The shadow fleet refers to ships that transport Russian crude and oil products that are embargoed due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
The Eagle S was en route to Port Said in Egypt and is still located in the Gulf of Finland, according to the tracking website Marine Traffic.&nbsp;
It was escorted by a Finnish patrol ship toward the coast near Porkkala, around 30 kilometres (19 miles) west of Helsinki.
"We have already boarded the vessel, spoken with the crew and gathered evidence," Lardot said.&nbsp;
<h2>'Something strange'&nbsp;</h2>
Police suspect that the oil tanker's anchor might have damaged the power cable.
"Our patrol vessel travelled to the area and could determine visually that the vessel's anchor was missing," Markku Hassinen of the Finnish Border Guard told a news conference.
"So there is a clear reason to suspect something strange happened," he said.
Finland's Prime Minister Petteri Orpo called the cable disruption "very serious" at a press conference on Thursday.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/major-escalation-as-russian-warship-accused-of-firing-flare-ammo-at-german-helicopter-781724">Major escalation as Russian warship accused of firing flare ammo at German helicopter</a>
"This is why the decisive and determined action by our authorities today and yesterday with regards to this ship in our territorial waters sends a strong message to other ships: We will intervene," he said.&nbsp;
He did not specifically incriminate Russia, adding that the two countries had not yet had any contact over the incident.
But Estonia's Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said: "The damages to critical underwater infrastructure have become so frequent that it's hard to believe they are accidents or just bad maritime manoeuvres."
Dragging an anchor on the seafloor can hardly be considered an accident, Tsahkna added in a statement after talks with his Finnish counterpart on Thursday afternoon.
The EU on Thursday threatened further sanctions against Russian vessels.
"We strongly condemn any deliberate destruction of Europe's critical infrastructure," the European Commission and the EU's foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said in a joint statement.
"The suspected vessel is part of Russia's shadow fleet, which threatens security and the environment, while funding Russia's war budget," they added.
"We will propose further measures, including sanctions, to target this fleet."
<h2>EU tankers blacklist&nbsp;</h2>
EU countries agreed earlier this month to blacklist around 50 more oil tankers from Russia's "shadow fleet", used to circumvent Western sanctions over the Ukraine war.
The move was part of a 15th package of sanctions to be imposed by the 27-nation bloc since Moscow's invasion.
Tensions have mounted around the Baltic since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
In September 2022, a series of underwater blasts ruptured the Nord Stream pipelines that carried Russian gas to Europe, the cause of which has yet to be determined.
In October 2023, an undersea gas pipeline between Finland and Estonia was shut down after it was damaged by the anchor of a Chinese cargo ship.
Early on November 17 this year, the Arelion telecommunications cable running from the Swedish island of Gotland to Lithuania was damaged.
The next day, the C-Lion 1 submarine cable connecting Helsinki and the German port of Rostock was cut south of Sweden's Oland island.
Suspicions concerning the November 17 incident focused on a Chinese-flagged vessel, the Yi Peng 3, which was in the area at the time.&nbsp;
Sweden said Monday that China had denied a request for prosecutors to conduct an investigation on the vessel and that it had left the area.
European officials have said they suspect several of the incidents are sabotage linked to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Kremlin has dismissed that claim as "absurd" and "laughable".
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.

Robin Lardot of Finland's National Bureau of Investigation said a probe for "aggravated sabotage" had been opened into the oil tanker Eagle S. 

Finnish authorities said Thursday that they were investigating an oil tanker that sailed from a Russian port over the "sabotage" of a power cable linking Finland and Estonia that was damaged the previous day. On Christmas Day, the Estlink 2 submarine cable that carries electricity from Finland to Estonia was disconnected from the grid, just over a month after two telecommunications cables were severed in Swedish territorial waters in the Baltic Sea. Robin Lardot of Finland's National Bureau of Investigation said a probe for "aggravated sabotage" had been opened into the oil tanker Eagle S, which flies under the flag of the Cook Islands in the South Pacific. "The assumption at the moment is that it is a shadow fleet vessel and the cargo was unleaded petrol loaded in a Russian port," said Sami Rakshit, director general of Finnish Customs. Also read: Sweden accuses China of blocking probe of ship linked to Baltic Sea cables damage The shadow fleet refers to ships that transport Russian crude and oil products that are embargoed due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Eagle S was en route to Port Said in Egypt and is still located in the Gulf of Finland, according to the tracking website Marine Traffic. It was escorted by a Finnish patrol ship toward the coast near Porkkala, around 30 kilometres (19 miles) west of Helsinki. "We have already boarded the vessel, spoken with the crew and gathered evidence," Lardot said. 'Something strange' Police suspect that the oil tanker's anchor might have damaged the power cable. "Our patrol vessel travelled to the area and could determine visually that the vessel's anchor was missing," Markku Hassinen of the Finnish Border Guard told a news conference. "So there is a clear reason to suspect something strange happened," he said. Finland's Prime Minister Petteri Orpo called the cable disruption "very serious" at a press conference on Thursday. Also read: Major escalation as Russian warship accused of firing flare ammo at German helicopter "This is why the decisive and determined action by our authorities today and yesterday with regards to this ship in our territorial waters sends a strong message to other ships: We will intervene," he said. He did not specifically incriminate Russia, adding that the two countries had not yet had any contact over the incident. But Estonia's Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said: "The damages to critical underwater infrastructure have become so frequent that it's hard to believe they are accidents or just bad maritime manoeuvres." Dragging an anchor on the seafloor can hardly be considered an accident, Tsahkna added in a statement after talks with his Finnish counterpart on Thursday afternoon. The EU on Thursday threatened further sanctions against Russian vessels. "We strongly condemn any deliberate destruction of Europe's critical infrastructure," the European Commission and the EU's foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said in a joint statement. "The suspected vessel is part of Russia's shadow fleet, which threatens security and the environment, while funding Russia's war budget," they added. "We will propose further measures, including sanctions, to target this fleet." EU tankers blacklist EU countries agreed earlier this month to blacklist around 50 more oil tankers from Russia's "shadow fleet", used to circumvent Western sanctions over the Ukraine war. The move was part of a 15th package of sanctions to be imposed by the 27-nation bloc since Moscow's invasion. Tensions have mounted around the Baltic since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. In September 2022, a series of underwater blasts ruptured the Nord Stream pipelines that carried Russian gas to Europe, the cause of which has yet to be determined. In October 2023, an undersea gas pipeline between Finland and Estonia was shut down after it was damaged by the anchor of a Chinese cargo ship. Early on November 17 this year, the Arelion telecommunications cable running from the Swedish island of Gotland to Lithuania was damaged. The next day, the C-Lion 1 submarine cable connecting Helsinki and the German port of Rostock was cut south of Sweden's Oland island. Suspicions concerning the November 17 incident focused on a Chinese-flagged vessel, the Yi Peng 3, which was in the area at the time. Sweden said Monday that China had denied a request for prosecutors to conduct an investigation on the vessel and that it had left the area. European officials have said they suspect several of the incidents are sabotage linked to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Kremlin has dismissed that claim as "absurd" and "laughable". 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.

Finland probes Russia-linked tanker over 'sabotage' of undersea cable

Former Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh passed away at the age of 92, in the national capital on Thursday (Dec 26), Delhi's All India Medical Institute (AIIMS) confirmed in a press release.

Former Indian PM Manmohan Singh Dies At 92

The incoming US 'border czar' Tom Homan on Thursday (Dec 26) said that he will reinstate policies that hold families in detention.&nbsp;
Homan, who was appointed by President-elect Donald Trump last month, said that the new detention centres will be able to hold families exiting the country.&nbsp;
&ldquo;You knew you were in the country illegally and chose to have a child. So you put your family in that position,&rdquo; Homan said in an interview with The Washington Post.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re going to need to construct family facilities,&rdquo; Homan stated, adding, "How many beds we&rsquo;re going to need will depend on what the data says.&rdquo;
President Biden directed the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to get rid of "residential centres" that held families in 2021, along with other deportation tactics that were considered inhumane by some.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-confirms-to-declare-national-emergency-use-military-assets-to-deport-illegal-migrants-777170">Trump confirms he will declare 'national emergency', use 'military assets' to deport illegal migrants</a>
Homan, in a previous interview with CNN, estimated that 100,000 beds would be needed for mass deportation efforts.&nbsp;
&ldquo;This will be an expense &mdash; this will be an expensive operation. But in the long run, it should be a &mdash; it would be a huge tax savings on the American people,&rdquo; Homan said in the interview.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-announces-tom-homan-as-border-czar-to-handle-deportation-of-illegal-aliens-775269" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump announces Tom Homan as 'border czar' to handle 'deportation of illegal aliens'</a>
Homan will not be directly leading the agency, as he will be working along with South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem (R), Trump&rsquo;s nominee for secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, to carry out border security efforts.
He has also planned to launch a targeted investigation into the 300,000 teenagers and children in America whose caretakers have stopped reporting to federal caseworkers.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/trumps-mass-deportation-project-easier-said-than-done-776002">Trump&rsquo;s mass deportation project &mdash; easier said than done</a>
&ldquo;I think some of these children will be in forced labour, and some will be in the sex trade,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;I think some will be perfectly fine. We just want to make sure.&rdquo;
Last month, Homan also received death threats and said that this is something "we are going to deal with".&nbsp;
He further noted that his task is to deliver on Trump's promise to enact the "largest deportation operation in history". To begin that, he said he would target those that "a federal judge said you must go and they didn't".
(With inputs from agencies)

Homan, who was appointed by President-elect Donald Trump last month, said that the new detention centres will be able to hold families exiting the country. 

The incoming US 'border czar' Tom Homan on Thursday (Dec 26) said that he will reinstate policies that hold families in detention. Homan, who was appointed by President-elect Donald Trump last month, said that the new detention centres will be able to hold families exiting the country. “You knew you were in the country illegally and chose to have a child. So you put your family in that position,” Homan said in an interview with The Washington Post. “We’re going to need to construct family facilities,” Homan stated, adding, "How many beds we’re going to need will depend on what the data says.” President Biden directed the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to get rid of "residential centres" that held families in 2021, along with other deportation tactics that were considered inhumane by some. Also read: Trump confirms he will declare 'national emergency', use 'military assets' to deport illegal migrants Homan, in a previous interview with CNN, estimated that 100,000 beds would be needed for mass deportation efforts. “This will be an expense — this will be an expensive operation. But in the long run, it should be a — it would be a huge tax savings on the American people,” Homan said in the interview. Also read: Donald Trump announces Tom Homan as 'border czar' to handle 'deportation of illegal aliens' Homan will not be directly leading the agency, as he will be working along with South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem (R), Trump’s nominee for secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, to carry out border security efforts. He has also planned to launch a targeted investigation into the 300,000 teenagers and children in America whose caretakers have stopped reporting to federal caseworkers. Also read: Trump’s mass deportation project — easier said than done “I think some of these children will be in forced labour, and some will be in the sex trade,” he said. “I think some will be perfectly fine. We just want to make sure.” Last month, Homan also received death threats and said that this is something "we are going to deal with". He further noted that his task is to deliver on Trump's promise to enact the "largest deportation operation in history". To begin that, he said he would target those that "a federal judge said you must go and they didn't". (With inputs from agencies)

Trump's border czar Tom Homan to bring back family detention centres amid migration crackdown

Former Indian prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh was admitted&nbsp;in the emergency department of Delhi's AIIMS hospital on Thursday (Dec 26).&nbsp;
 Israeli Air Force on Thursday (Dec 26) launched strikes against the Sanaa International Airport in Yemen, local media reports said.&nbsp;
Russia on Thursday (Dec 26) cautioned against promoting "hypotheses" about the Azerbaijan Airlines crash that killed 38 people. Addressing a press conference, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, "It would be wrong to put forward any hypotheses before the investigation's conclusions."
Click on the headlines to read more&nbsp;
<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ex-indian-pm-manmohan-singh-admitted-to-aiims-emergency-department-report-8568406" aria-label="Former Indian PM Manmohan Singh admitted to AIIMS' emergency department: Report">Former Indian PM Manmohan Singh admitted to AIIMS' emergency department: Report</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/26/N2sHJQQJsToxAvsvPIAA.png" alt=" Former Indian PM Manmohan Singh admitted to AIIMS' emergency department: Report">
Former Indian prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh was admitted to Delhi's All India Medical Institute (AIIMS), the news agency PTI reported on Thursday (Dec 26), citing sources. The sources said that Singh was hospitalised in AIIMS' emergency department though the reason for his hospitalisation was not revealed at the time of this filing.
<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-launches-strikes-against-sanaa-international-airport-in-yemen-say-reports-8568360" aria-label="West Asia crisis: Israel launches strikes against Sanaa International Airport in Yemen, say reports">West Asia crisis: Israel launches strikes on Sanaa International Airport in Yemen, say reports</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/26/VwPKPuQdvZlj7mbWrpvx.png" alt=" Reuters Photograph: (File photo Sanaa Airport.) " style="width: 1280px;">
If Yemeni media reports are to be believed, the Israeli Air Force on Thursday (Dec 26) launched strikes on the Sanaa International Airport in Yemen. Iran-aligned Houthi rebels, which control Yemen's capital city of Sanaa, said that strikes (in the region) were in fact from Israel but did not elaborate on the exact locations where they struck.&nbsp;
<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-cautions-against-promoting-hypotheses-about-azerbaijan-plane-crash-8568101" aria-label="Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Russia cautions against promoting 'hypotheses' about accident">Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Russia cautions against promoting 'hypotheses' about accident</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/26/q8ticjjkZA1PJPLj7amC.png" alt=" Of all the 67 people on board, 38 were killed in the crash.&nbsp; Photograph: (Reuters ) " style="width: 1280px;">
Russia on Thursday (Dec 26) cautioned against promoting "hypotheses" about the Azerbaijan Airlines crash that killed 38 people. Addressing a press conference, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, "It would be wrong to put forward any hypotheses before the investigation's conclusions."
<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bus-carrying-around-60-people-crashes-in-norway-casualties-reported-8568356" aria-label="Bus carrying around 60 people crashes in Norway, three killed">Bus carrying around 60 people crashes in Norway, three killed</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/26/JuCjZtbqHZAUuJo5AfKC.jpg" alt=" Representative image for Norwegian police Photograph: (Reuters) ">A bus carrying around 60 people crashed in northern Norway on Thursday (Dec 26), killing three people, state media reported.&nbsp;Nordland Hospital has been alerted about the incident.&nbsp;
<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-week-old-baby-girl-freezes-to-death-in-gaza-while-israel-and-hamas-trade-blames-of-ceasefire-delay-8568285" aria-label="Three-week old baby girl freezes to death in Gaza while Israel and Hamas trade blame for ceasefire delay">Three-week old baby girl freezes to death in Gaza while Israel and Hamas trade blame for ceasefire delay</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/26/NsT8pFgXquMlqDWf7Jzf.jpg" alt=" Gaza Strip devastated by conflict Photograph: (Reuters) " style="width: 1280px;">
As tensions in West Asia escalate, a baby girl has frozen to death in Gaza, and at least 10 other people have been killed in airstrikes while Israel and Hamas continue to fight on the issue of reaching a ceasefire deal. The baby was three weeks old, and it was the third such incident of death from the cold wave in Gaza in recent days, said doctors of the Hamas-run Gaza health authorities.
<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-opposition-files-impeachment-motion-against-acting-president-han-duck-soo-8568046" aria-label="S Korea opposition files impeachment motion against acting president">S Korea opposition files impeachment motion against acting president</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/26/WRgJ5CPsodsDPgtfWjIY.jpg" alt=" South Korean acting President Han Duck-soo Photograph: (Reuters) ">
South Korea's opposition Democratic Party said on Thursday (December 26) that it filed an impeachment motion against the acting President Han Duck-soo over an escalating dispute about the composition of the Constitutional Court, which would decide whether to remove his predecessor from office.&nbsp;
<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-approves-worlds-largest-dam-on-brahmaputra-river-raises-concern-for-india-8567906" aria-label="China approves world's largest dam on Brahmaputra river">China approves world's largest dam on Brahmaputra river</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/26/rwMxSqecGBmkjZ7KRIgH.jpg" alt=" The outlay for building the dam, including engineering costs, is also expected to eclipse the Three Gorges dam Photograph: (Reuters) ">Amid rising tensions between India and China, Beijing on Thursday (Dec 26) approved the construction of the world's largest dam, a colossal hydropower project, on the Brahmaputra River in Tibet, close to the Indian border.&nbsp;
<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africas-super-strange-looking-plants-being-poached-8568452" aria-label="South Africa's 'super-strange looking' plants being poached">South Africa's 'super-strange looking' plants being poached</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/26/hetPO3CuYrNSwwFT6Fzx.jpg" alt=" Photograph: (Pexels) ">
A biodiversity hotspot, Kamieskroon, in South South Africa, surrounded&nbsp;by&nbsp;protected plant species, has&nbsp;turned into the illegal trade of&nbsp;these plants.&nbsp;Organised groups&nbsp;were reported&nbsp;engaged in&nbsp;smuggling&nbsp;the&nbsp;rare species plants to fulfil their&nbsp;oversee&nbsp;demands, BBC reported.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-man-city-pay-penalty-for-erling-haaland-miss-in-everton-draw-8568400">Premier League: Man City pay penalty for Erling Haaland miss in Everton draw</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2024/12/26/9BtawXrDKbAlfSVBHOZd.png" alt=" Premier League: Man City pay penalty for Erling Haaland miss in Everton draw">
Erling Haaland had a second-half penalty saved as Manchester City's astonishing slump continued with a 1-1 draw against lowly Everton at the Etihad Stadium.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/deepika-padukone-shares-a-glimpse-of-christmas-celebrations-with-husband-ranveer-singh-and-daughter-dua-8567257">Deepika Padukone shares a glimpse of Christmas celebrations with Ranveer Singh and daughter Dua</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2020/04/04/135661-untitled-design-34.jpg" alt=" Deepika Padukone shares a glimpse of Christmas celebrations with Ranveer Singh and daughter Dua" style="width: 1280px;">
Bollywood power couple Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh had a special Christmas this year. The couple welcomed their first child, baby girl Dua, in September 2024. And it was the first Christmas for them as a family of three. The parents gifted a cute little gift to their daughter.&nbsp;

Former Indian prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh was admitted in the emergency department of Delhi's AIIMS hospital on Thursday (Dec 26). Israeli Air Force on Thursday (Dec 26) launched strikes against the Sanaa International Airport in Yemen, local media reports said. Russia on Thursday (Dec 26) cautioned against promoting "hypotheses" about the Azerbaijan Airlines crash that killed 38 people. Addressing a press conference, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, "It would be wrong to put forward any hypotheses before the investigation's conclusions." Click on the headlines to read more Former Indian PM Manmohan Singh admitted to AIIMS' emergency department: Report Former Indian prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh was admitted to Delhi's All India Medical Institute (AIIMS), the news agency PTI reported on Thursday (Dec 26), citing sources. The sources said that Singh was hospitalised in AIIMS' emergency department though the reason for his hospitalisation was not revealed at the time of this filing. West Asia crisis: Israel launches strikes on Sanaa International Airport in Yemen, say reports If Yemeni media reports are to be believed, the Israeli Air Force on Thursday (Dec 26) launched strikes on the Sanaa International Airport in Yemen. Iran-aligned Houthi rebels, which control Yemen's capital city of Sanaa, said that strikes (in the region) were in fact from Israel but did not elaborate on the exact locations where they struck. Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Russia cautions against promoting 'hypotheses' about accident Russia on Thursday (Dec 26) cautioned against promoting "hypotheses" about the Azerbaijan Airlines crash that killed 38 people. Addressing a press conference, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, "It would be wrong to put forward any hypotheses before the investigation's conclusions." Bus carrying around 60 people crashes in Norway, three killed A bus carrying around 60 people crashed in northern Norway on Thursday (Dec 26), killing three people, state media reported. Nordland Hospital has been alerted about the incident. Three-week old baby girl freezes to death in Gaza while Israel and Hamas trade blame for ceasefire delay As tensions in West Asia escalate, a baby girl has frozen to death in Gaza, and at least 10 other people have been killed in airstrikes while Israel and Hamas continue to fight on the issue of reaching a ceasefire deal. The baby was three weeks old, and it was the third such incident of death from the cold wave in Gaza in recent days, said doctors of the Hamas-run Gaza health authorities. S Korea opposition files impeachment motion against acting president South Korea's opposition Democratic Party said on Thursday (December 26) that it filed an impeachment motion against the acting President Han Duck-soo over an escalating dispute about the composition of the Constitutional Court, which would decide whether to remove his predecessor from office. China approves world's largest dam on Brahmaputra river Amid rising tensions between India and China, Beijing on Thursday (Dec 26) approved the construction of the world's largest dam, a colossal hydropower project, on the Brahmaputra River in Tibet, close to the Indian border. South Africa's 'super-strange looking' plants being poached A biodiversity hotspot, Kamieskroon, in South South Africa, surrounded by protected plant species, has turned into the illegal trade of these plants. Organised groups were reported engaged in smuggling the rare species plants to fulfil their oversee demands, BBC reported. Premier League: Man City pay penalty for Erling Haaland miss in Everton draw Erling Haaland had a second-half penalty saved as Manchester City's astonishing slump continued with a 1-1 draw against lowly Everton at the Etihad Stadium. Deepika Padukone shares a glimpse of Christmas celebrations with Ranveer Singh and daughter Dua Bollywood power couple Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh had a special Christmas this year. The couple welcomed their first child, baby girl Dua, in September 2024. And it was the first Christmas for them as a family of three. The parents gifted a cute little gift to their daughter.

Top 10 world news: Ex-Indian PM Dr Manmohan Singh admitted to AIIMS; West Asia crisis updates, and more

20 cats - including a Bengal tiger and four cougars - have died of bird flu over the past several weeks at an animal sanctuary in the state of Washington. Watch to know more.

US: Bird flu kills 20 big cats

The world saw a string of personalities and events - from geopolitics to business to sports to the environment - playing gamechangers in 2024. They altered dimensions and impacted the course of history that changed the trajectory of the way we live for years to come.

Events and the people who changed the world in 2024

The Israeli military on Thursday (Dec 26) launched strikes at multiple locations in Yemen including the Sanaa International Airport. According to a report by the news agency AFP, three people were killed in the strikes.
The strikes targeting the airport, military facilities and power stations in rebel areas follow rising hostilities between Israel and the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels, part of Iran's "axis of resistance" alliance against Israel.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-houthis-uncover-mossad-cia-spy-network-as-israel-shifts-focus-to-yemen-8566732" rel="dofollow">Houthis &lsquo;uncover&rsquo; Mossad, CIA spy network as Israel shifts focus to Yemen</a>
The other targets included facilities at Hodeida, Salif and Ras Kanatib ports. In a statement, the Israeli military said that these locations were being used by the Houthi rebels to smuggle&nbsp;Iranian weapons into the region and for the entry of senior Iranian officials.&nbsp;
<h2>WHO chief was at Sanaa airport during strike</h2>
World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that he was at the Sanaa International Airport when it was hit by the Israeli strike.
Tedros said that "one of our plane's crew members was injured." The WHO chief was in Yemen to seek the release of detained UN staff and assess the humanitarian situation in the war-torn country.
Tedros said that his team were about to board their flight when the airport came under aerial bombardment.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, in a statement, Houthi rebels said that two people were killed and 11 others were injured during the strike at the airport.
<h2>'Israeli strikes would continue until job is done'</h2>
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Israel's strikes would continue until the job was done.
"We are determined to cut this branch of terrorism from the Iranian axis of evil," Prime Minister Netanyahu said in a video statement.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vows-to-target-houthi-leaders-says-will-act-against-them-to-remove-threat-786542" rel="dofollow">Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says 'will act against them to remove threat'</a>
Since the war between Israel and Hamas began on October 7, 2023, Houthis have &nbsp;fired drones and missiles towards Israel in what they describe as acts of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
More than a year of&nbsp;Houthi&nbsp;attacks have disrupted international shipping routes, forcing firms to re-route to longer and more expensive journeys that have in turn stoked fears over global inflation.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Israeli media has reported that the IDF has carried out against Houthis in response to the rebels' recent ballistic missile and drone attacks on Israel. 

The Israeli military on Thursday (Dec 26) launched strikes at multiple locations in Yemen including the Sanaa International Airport. According to a report by the news agency AFP, three people were killed in the strikes. The strikes targeting the airport, military facilities and power stations in rebel areas follow rising hostilities between Israel and the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels, part of Iran's "axis of resistance" alliance against Israel. Also read | Houthis ‘uncover’ Mossad, CIA spy network as Israel shifts focus to Yemen The other targets included facilities at Hodeida, Salif and Ras Kanatib ports. In a statement, the Israeli military said that these locations were being used by the Houthi rebels to smuggle Iranian weapons into the region and for the entry of senior Iranian officials. WHO chief was at Sanaa airport during strike World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that he was at the Sanaa International Airport when it was hit by the Israeli strike. Tedros said that "one of our plane's crew members was injured." The WHO chief was in Yemen to seek the release of detained UN staff and assess the humanitarian situation in the war-torn country. Tedros said that his team were about to board their flight when the airport came under aerial bombardment. Meanwhile, in a statement, Houthi rebels said that two people were killed and 11 others were injured during the strike at the airport. 'Israeli strikes would continue until job is done' Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Israel's strikes would continue until the job was done. "We are determined to cut this branch of terrorism from the Iranian axis of evil," Prime Minister Netanyahu said in a video statement. Also read | Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says 'will act against them to remove threat' Since the war between Israel and Hamas began on October 7, 2023, Houthis have fired drones and missiles towards Israel in what they describe as acts of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. More than a year of Houthi attacks have disrupted international shipping routes, forcing firms to re-route to longer and more expensive journeys that have in turn stoked fears over global inflation. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: Israel launches multiple strikes in Yemen, three killed

Swiggy’s 2024 report has delivered a snapshot of India's evolving culinary landscape. With 83 million biryanis ordered—an astounding 2 plates every second—biryani remains the undisputed favorite for the ninth consecutive year. Dinner became the top meal of the day, with 215 million orders, almost 29% more than lunch.

Swiggy 2024 Highlights: late-night snacks & secret orders; biryani reigns as India's favorite dish

A new large ice cave was recently discovered in China's county of Xizang Autonomous Region, following the discovery of an ice cave in March 2023. Take a look.

New massive ice cave unveiled in China's Xizang

A biodiversity hotspot, Kamieskroon, in South&nbsp;Africa surrounded by protected plant species has turned into the illegal trade of these plants. Organised groups were reported engaged in smuggling the rare species plants to fulfil their oversee demands, BBC reported.&nbsp;
A livestock farmer expressed her dismay at the social and ecological crisis to BBC saying, "They've not just stolen our land or our plants, they've stolen our heritage as well."&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-panama-canal-row-donald-trump-picks-miami-dade-official-as-panama-ambassador-8568264" aria-label="Amid Panama Canal row, Donald Trump picks Miami-Dade official as Panama ambassador">Amid Panama Canal row, Donald Trump picks Miami-Dade official as Panama ambassador</a>
Most of the plants there are subject to illegal trading&nbsp;are a a variety known as succulents, named for their ability to hold water and survive in arid climates, BBC reported. Many of these species are found in the Succulent Karoo desert (Spans across South Africa and Namibia).&nbsp;
Succulent species are found in varied sizes, shapes and colours and some of them look like small multi-coloured buttons while some look like cacti. They sprout flowers of various colours at a fixed time of the year.&nbsp;
Although these plants can be cultivated in nurseries, the increasing global demand has resulted in the poaching of these plants further getting smuggled and sold online to buyers across the US, Europe, and East Asia.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-cautions-against-promoting-hypotheses-about-azerbaijan-plane-crash-8568101" aria-label="Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Russia cautions against promoting 'hypotheses' about accident">Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Russia cautions against promoting 'hypotheses' about accident</a>
Pieter van Wyk, a nursery curator, told BBC, "In South Africa, we&nbsp;know already of seven species that have been wiped out completely and there are certainly more species that will go extinct very soon."&nbsp;
It is not yet clear the number of plants being poached but as per some unofficial reports, around 1.6 million illegally harvested succulents were seized by South Africa's law enforcement agencies between 2019 and 2024. 
(With inputs from agencies)
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Succulent species are found in varied sizes, shapes and colours and some of them look like small multi-coloured buttons while some look like cacti. They sprout flowers of various colours at a fixed time of the year. 

A biodiversity hotspot, Kamieskroon, in South Africa surrounded by protected plant species has turned into the illegal trade of these plants. Organised groups were reported engaged in smuggling the rare species plants to fulfil their oversee demands, BBC reported. A livestock farmer expressed her dismay at the social and ecological crisis to BBC saying, "They've not just stolen our land or our plants, they've stolen our heritage as well." Also read | Amid Panama Canal row, Donald Trump picks Miami-Dade official as Panama ambassador Most of the plants there are subject to illegal trading are a a variety known as succulents, named for their ability to hold water and survive in arid climates, BBC reported. Many of these species are found in the Succulent Karoo desert (Spans across South Africa and Namibia). Succulent species are found in varied sizes, shapes and colours and some of them look like small multi-coloured buttons while some look like cacti. They sprout flowers of various colours at a fixed time of the year. Although these plants can be cultivated in nurseries, the increasing global demand has resulted in the poaching of these plants further getting smuggled and sold online to buyers across the US, Europe, and East Asia. Also read | Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Russia cautions against promoting 'hypotheses' about accident Pieter van Wyk, a nursery curator, told BBC, "In South Africa, we know already of seven species that have been wiped out completely and there are certainly more species that will go extinct very soon." It is not yet clear the number of plants being poached but as per some unofficial reports, around 1.6 million illegally harvested succulents were seized by South Africa's law enforcement agencies between 2019 and 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

South Africa's 'super-strange looking' plants being poached

A bus carrying around 60 people crashed in northern Norway on Thursday (Dec 26), killing three people, state media reported.&nbsp;
The accident happened around 1:30 pm (local time) in the Hadsel district on Norway's northwestern coast.
Bent Are Eilertsen, chief of staff of the Nordland Police District, said he believed there were between 60 and 70 people on board the bus.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/14-dead-in-pakistan-wedding-bus-crash-bride-only-survivor-say-rescuers-775748" rel="dofollow">Also read: At least 14 dead in Pakistan wedding bus crash, bride only survivor, say rescuers</a>
Eilertsen further said that four people were seriously injured in the incident.&nbsp;
Three people have been taken to Stokmarknes Hospital by rescue helicopter, while other passengers have been taken to a nearby school.&nbsp;
According to public broadcaster NRK, the bus came off the road and ended up partially in a body of water.&nbsp;
The Norwegian Red Cross took on social media and said that it was sending teams to help with a "serious bus accident" on the E10 road. Moroeover, fire, ambulance and police teams have also been working at the scene.
There have been reports of heavy snowdrifts and strong winds in the area.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-22-die-in-bus-accident-in-southeastern-brazil-officials-785855" rel="dofollow">Also read: At least 22 die in bus accident in southeastern Brazil: Officials</a>
Moreover, other passengers who were hurt have been taken to a nearby school after emergency services, including rescue helicopters and volunteers from the Red Cross, rushed to the scene.
Following the rescue operation, everyone has been taken out from the vehicle, the local media reported.&nbsp;
Mayor of the nearby V&aring;gan district, Vidar Thom Benjaminsen, said a "crisis team" had been set up, adding that a local team had been allocated for family members and as a reception centre.
'Very serious situation'
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr St&oslash;re took to social media and said the crash was "a very serious situation" and that his thoughts were with everyone affected.
"This afternoon, we stand with those affected by the serious bus accident in Hadsel. My thoughts are with everyone involved and affected. It is a very serious situation where many people are involved, and there have been confirmed fatalities and serious injuries in the accident," he posted.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Bent Are Eilertsen, chief of staff of the Nordland Police District, said he believed there were between 60 and 70 people on the bus.

A bus carrying around 60 people crashed in northern Norway on Thursday (Dec 26), killing three people, state media reported. The accident happened around 1:30 pm (local time) in the Hadsel district on Norway's northwestern coast. Bent Are Eilertsen, chief of staff of the Nordland Police District, said he believed there were between 60 and 70 people on board the bus. Also read: At least 14 dead in Pakistan wedding bus crash, bride only survivor, say rescuers Eilertsen further said that four people were seriously injured in the incident. Three people have been taken to Stokmarknes Hospital by rescue helicopter, while other passengers have been taken to a nearby school. According to public broadcaster NRK, the bus came off the road and ended up partially in a body of water. The Norwegian Red Cross took on social media and said that it was sending teams to help with a "serious bus accident" on the E10 road. Moroeover, fire, ambulance and police teams have also been working at the scene. There have been reports of heavy snowdrifts and strong winds in the area. Also read: At least 22 die in bus accident in southeastern Brazil: Officials Moreover, other passengers who were hurt have been taken to a nearby school after emergency services, including rescue helicopters and volunteers from the Red Cross, rushed to the scene. Following the rescue operation, everyone has been taken out from the vehicle, the local media reported. Mayor of the nearby Vågan district, Vidar Thom Benjaminsen, said a "crisis team" had been set up, adding that a local team had been allocated for family members and as a reception centre. 'Very serious situation' Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre took to social media and said the crash was "a very serious situation" and that his thoughts were with everyone affected. "This afternoon, we stand with those affected by the serious bus accident in Hadsel. My thoughts are with everyone involved and affected. It is a very serious situation where many people are involved, and there have been confirmed fatalities and serious injuries in the accident," he posted. (With inputs from agencies)

Bus carrying around 60 people crashes in Norway, three killed

Developed by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), the Baidi B-Type supersonic jet has been conceived as an “integrated space-air fighter” as part of China's ambitious Project Nantianmen, a research initiative to explore future aerospace technologies.

China's 'Baidi White Emperor' | 6th generation fighter jet

As tensions in West Asia escalate, a baby girl has frozen to death in Gaza, and at least 10 other people have been killed in airstrikes while Israel and Hamas continue to fight on the issue of reaching a ceasefire deal.
The baby was three weeks old, and it was the third such incident of death from the cold wave in Gaza in recent days, said doctors of the Hamas-run Gaza health authorities.
Moreover, five people were killed and 20 injured in an Israeli airstrike on a house in Gaza City's Zeitoun neighbourhood on Thursday (Dec 26), medics with the Gaza health authorities reported.
They further warned that the death toll could rise as many people were stuck under the rubble.&nbsp;
<h2>Journalists killed</h2>
In a separate incident, five journalists were killed after their vehicle got struck in the vicinity of Al-Awda Hospital in Nuseirat in central Gaza, according to the health authorities.&nbsp;
Medics said the five were among at least 21 people who have been killed in Israeli air strikes.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/impossible-to-reach-deal-without-it-hamas-still-hasnt-sent-list-of-living-dead-hostages-to-israel-report-786735">'Impossible to reach deal without it,' Hamas still hasn't sent list of living, dead hostages to Israel: Report</a>
The Palestinian Journalists Union said that one strike killed five journalists from the Al-Quds Today channel.&nbsp;
The union added that more than 190 Palestinian journalists have been killed by Israeli fire since the beginning of the war last year.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Israel has always denied targeting journalists, adding that they always stay cautious to avoid harming civilians.&nbsp;
Earlier on Wednesday, Hamas and Israel traded blame over their failure to reach a ceasefire agreement, despite both sides having reported progress in the past few days.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-one-child-killed-every-hour-says-unrwa-786720">Gaza: One child killed every hour, says UNRWA</a>
Hamas has been saying that Israel has laid down further conditions, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that the Hamas group keeps on going back on the understanding that has already been reached.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

Five people were killed and 20 injured in an Israeli airstrike on a house in Gaza City's Zeitoun neighbourhood on Thursday, medics with the Gaza health authorities reported.

As tensions in West Asia escalate, a baby girl has frozen to death in Gaza, and at least 10 other people have been killed in airstrikes while Israel and Hamas continue to fight on the issue of reaching a ceasefire deal. The baby was three weeks old, and it was the third such incident of death from the cold wave in Gaza in recent days, said doctors of the Hamas-run Gaza health authorities. Moreover, five people were killed and 20 injured in an Israeli airstrike on a house in Gaza City's Zeitoun neighbourhood on Thursday (Dec 26), medics with the Gaza health authorities reported. They further warned that the death toll could rise as many people were stuck under the rubble. Journalists killed In a separate incident, five journalists were killed after their vehicle got struck in the vicinity of Al-Awda Hospital in Nuseirat in central Gaza, according to the health authorities. Medics said the five were among at least 21 people who have been killed in Israeli air strikes. Also read: 'Impossible to reach deal without it,' Hamas still hasn't sent list of living, dead hostages to Israel: Report The Palestinian Journalists Union said that one strike killed five journalists from the Al-Quds Today channel. The union added that more than 190 Palestinian journalists have been killed by Israeli fire since the beginning of the war last year. Meanwhile, Israel has always denied targeting journalists, adding that they always stay cautious to avoid harming civilians. Earlier on Wednesday, Hamas and Israel traded blame over their failure to reach a ceasefire agreement, despite both sides having reported progress in the past few days. Also read: Gaza: One child killed every hour, says UNRWA Hamas has been saying that Israel has laid down further conditions, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that the Hamas group keeps on going back on the understanding that has already been reached. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Three-week old baby girl freezes to death in Gaza while Israel and Hamas trade blame for ceasefire delay

US President-elect Donald Trump announced on Wednesday (Dec 25) that Miami-Dade county commissioner Kevin Marino Cabrera will serve as the ambassador to Panama. Describing him as &ldquo;a fierce fighter for America First principles," the Republican said Cabrera has played a major role in driving economic growth and fostering international partnerships.&nbsp;
In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump wrote, &ldquo;Few understand Latin American politics as well as Kevin &ndash; He will do a FANTASTIC job representing our Nation&rsquo;s interests in Panama!&rdquo;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-cautions-against-promoting-hypotheses-about-azerbaijan-plane-crash-8568101" aria-label="Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Russia cautions against promoting 'hypotheses' about accident">Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Russia cautions against promoting 'hypotheses' about accident</a>
"In 2020, Kevin did an incredible job as my Florida State Director and, this year, advanced our MAGA Agenda as a Member of the RNC Platform Committee," Trump wrote.&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/113715171941661598/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

The announcement came after Trump's threat to reassert the control of the United States over the Panama Canal. The US administered the canal for several decades and then handed it over to the Central American country in 1999.&nbsp;
<h3>'Thank You, President Trump'&nbsp;</h3>
After Trump's announcement, Cabrera released a statement saying, "As a first-generation American and the son of Cuban exiles, I am profoundly grateful for everything this country has given me."&nbsp;
"Thank you, President Trump, for this incredible honour. I am eager and energized to join your administration as the next ambassador to Panama," he wrote.&nbsp;
Before becoming the Miami-Dade county commissioner, Cabrera was the director of Trump's 2020 re-election campaign in Florida.&nbsp;
In November 2024, Cabrera sponsored an initiative to recognize Hialeah's creation of President Donald J. Trump Avenue and the county commission approved it.&nbsp;
In his statement, Cabrera wrote, "I am committed to supporting President Trump's America First vision and will work tirelessly every day to uphold his bold approach to international diplomacy. Together, we will ensure that American strength, freedom, and leadership continue to shape a brighter future for all." 
(With inputs from agencies)

The upcoming US president further accused Chinese soldiers of illegally operating the Panama Canal. Panama President said that China did not influence the canal's administration. 

US President-elect Donald Trump announced on Wednesday (Dec 25) that Miami-Dade county commissioner Kevin Marino Cabrera will serve as the ambassador to Panama. Describing him as “a fierce fighter for America First principles," the Republican said Cabrera has played a major role in driving economic growth and fostering international partnerships. In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump wrote, “Few understand Latin American politics as well as Kevin – He will do a FANTASTIC job representing our Nation’s interests in Panama!” Also read | Azerbaijan Airlines crash: Russia cautions against promoting 'hypotheses' about accident "In 2020, Kevin did an incredible job as my Florida State Director and, this year, advanced our MAGA Agenda as a Member of the RNC Platform Committee," Trump wrote. The announcement came after Trump's threat to reassert the control of the United States over the Panama Canal. The US administered the canal for several decades and then handed it over to the Central American country in 1999. 'Thank You, President Trump' After Trump's announcement, Cabrera released a statement saying, "As a first-generation American and the son of Cuban exiles, I am profoundly grateful for everything this country has given me." "Thank you, President Trump, for this incredible honour. I am eager and energized to join your administration as the next ambassador to Panama," he wrote. Before becoming the Miami-Dade county commissioner, Cabrera was the director of Trump's 2020 re-election campaign in Florida. In November 2024, Cabrera sponsored an initiative to recognize Hialeah's creation of President Donald J. Trump Avenue and the county commission approved it. In his statement, Cabrera wrote, "I am committed to supporting President Trump's America First vision and will work tirelessly every day to uphold his bold approach to international diplomacy. Together, we will ensure that American strength, freedom, and leadership continue to shape a brighter future for all." (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Kevin Marino Cabrera, Trump's pick for ambassador to Panama?

Russia on Thursday (Dec 26) cautioned against promoting "hypotheses" about the Azerbaijan Airlines crash that killed 38 people.
Addressing a press conference, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, "It would be wrong to put forward any hypotheses before the investigation's conclusions."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-azerbaijan-airlines-crash-a-look-at-the-e190-plane-involved-in-incident-that-killed-39-8567100" rel="dofollow">Explained- Azerbaijan Airlines crash: A look at the E190 plane involved in incident that killed 38</a>
"We, of course, will not do this, and no one should do this. We need to wait until the investigation is completed," Peskov added.
<h2>The tragic crash that killed 38</h2>
On Wednesday, an Embraer E190 aircraft of Azerbaijan Airlines (flight number J2-8243) from Baku to Chechnya's Gronzy crashed near the Aktau Airport in Kazakhstan.&nbsp;
Of all the 67 people on board, 38 were killed in the crash.&nbsp;
<h2>Was the aircraft shot down by Russia?</h2>
Even though an investigation into the crash is underway, some aviation and military experts said the plane may have been accidentally shot by Russian air defence systems as it was flying in an area where Ukrainian drone activity had been reported.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bodycam-footage-shows-aftermath-of-azerbaijan-flight-crash-8567907" rel="dofollow">Bodycam footage shows aftermath of Azerbaijan flight crash</a>
Speaking to the news agency AFP, Russian military expert Yury Podolyaka said that holes seen in the wreckage of the aircraft were similar to the damage caused by an "anti-aircraft missile system."
<h2>Damage to Azerbaijan Airlines plane reminiscent of Malaysian Airlines flight</h2>
A former expert at France's BEA air accident investigation agency also said there appeared to be "a lot of shrapnel" damage on the wreckage.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, he told AFP that the damage was "reminiscent" of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, which was downed with a surface-to-air missile by Russia-backed rebels over eastern Ukraine in 2014.
(With inputs from agencies)

On Wednesday, an Embraer E190 aircraft of Azerbaijan Airlines (flight number J2-8243) from Baku to Chechnya's Gronzy crashed near the Aktau Airport in Kazakhstan. 

Russia on Thursday (Dec 26) cautioned against promoting "hypotheses" about the Azerbaijan Airlines crash that killed 38 people. Addressing a press conference, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, "It would be wrong to put forward any hypotheses before the investigation's conclusions." Also read | Explained- Azerbaijan Airlines crash: A look at the E190 plane involved in incident that killed 38 "We, of course, will not do this, and no one should do this. We need to wait until the investigation is completed," Peskov added. The tragic crash that killed 38 On Wednesday, an Embraer E190 aircraft of Azerbaijan Airlines (flight number J2-8243) from Baku to Chechnya's Gronzy crashed near the Aktau Airport in Kazakhstan. Of all the 67 people on board, 38 were killed in the crash. Was the aircraft shot down by Russia? Even though an investigation into the crash is underway, some aviation and military experts said the plane may have been accidentally shot by Russian air defence systems as it was flying in an area where Ukrainian drone activity had been reported. Also read | Bodycam footage shows aftermath of Azerbaijan flight crash Speaking to the news agency AFP, Russian military expert Yury Podolyaka said that holes seen in the wreckage of the aircraft were similar to the damage caused by an "anti-aircraft missile system." Damage to Azerbaijan Airlines plane reminiscent of Malaysian Airlines flight A former expert at France's BEA air accident investigation agency also said there appeared to be "a lot of shrapnel" damage on the wreckage. Speaking on condition of anonymity, he told AFP that the damage was "reminiscent" of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, which was downed with a surface-to-air missile by Russia-backed rebels over eastern Ukraine in 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

Azerbaijan Airlines crash:  Russia cautions against promoting 'hypotheses' about accident

Russia's Federal Security Service, or the FSB, claims it has foiled several murder plots targeting high-ranking Russian officials, accusing the Ukrainian intelligence services. The FSB stated that these planned murders involved attacks on officials and their families in Moscow, using bombs disguised as power banks or paper documents.

Russia says foiled Ukrainian plot to kill high-ranking officials

Many people dream of a white Christmas, but unfortunately, we may have to become used to a sodden Christmas instead due to climate change. Driven primarily by humanity’s mass burning of fossil fuels, that decline in days below freezing threatens tourism, the economy, and cultures. But how does climate change impact white Christmases?

Are the chances of a white Christmas changing?

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