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Former President Donald Trump's new demands have put immense pressure on Congress as they work to avert a potential government shutdown. Lawmakers are scrambling to reach an agreement amid growing concerns over funding and political negotiations.

Trump's New Demands Leave Congress Scrambling to Avoid Shutdown

India has started a sector-wise analysis and is drawing multiple scenarios to cope with any possible increase in tariffs on Indian products in US President-elect Donald Trump's second term in the White House.&nbsp;

"Ministries and departments are examining various scenarios, apprehending such a move by the US and possible remedies,"&nbsp;said an Economic Times (ET) report on Thursday (Dec 19), citing a person familiar with the matter.&nbsp;

Trump on Tuesday (Dec 17) said that the US will impose reciprocal tariffs on Indian products as India imposes high tariffs on American goods.&nbsp;

An expert told ET that India will have to relook at some of the products on which tariffs could be tweaked to address the concerns of the US.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine's Battle For Survival At Critical Crossroads

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraines-battle-for-survival-at-critical-crossroads-785385/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>'They tax us, we tax them'</h2>

"If they tax us, we tax them the same amount," Trump told reporters at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on Monday (Dec 16).

"The word reciprocal is important because if somebody charges us - India, we don't have to talk about our own - if India charges us 100 per cent, do we charge them nothing for the same? You know, they send in a bicycle, and we send them a bicycle. They charge us 100 and 200," he added.&nbsp;

"India charges a lot. Brazil charges a lot. If they want to charge us, that's fine, but we're going to charge them the same thing," he further said.&nbsp;

<h2>'The idea that...'</h2>

On November 30, Trump issued a stark warning to India and other BRICS nations, threatening them with a 100 per cent tariff if they continue to pursue other currencies to replace the US dollar for trade.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/luigi-mangione-suspect-in-unitedhealthcare-ceos-murder-agrees-to-return-to-new-york-for-trial-785373">Luigi Mangione, suspect in UnitedHealthcare CEO's murder, agrees to return to New York for trial</a>

BRICS is a group of economies like Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, alongside recent additions like Iran, Egypt, and the UAE.

"The idea that the BRICS countries are trying to move away from the Dollar while we stand by and watch is OVER, "Trump said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

India has started a sector-wise analysis and is drawing multiple scenarios to cope with any possible increase in tariffs on Indian products in US President-elect Donald Trump's second term in the White House.

India has started a sector-wise analysis and is drawing multiple scenarios to cope with any possible increase in tariffs on Indian products in US President-elect Donald Trump's second term in the White House. "Ministries and departments are examining various scenarios, apprehending such a move by the US and possible remedies," said an Economic Times (ET) report on Thursday (Dec 19), citing a person familiar with the matter. Trump on Tuesday (Dec 17) said that the US will impose reciprocal tariffs on Indian products as India imposes high tariffs on American goods. An expert told ET that India will have to relook at some of the products on which tariffs could be tweaked to address the concerns of the US. Watch | Ukraine's Battle For Survival At Critical Crossroads 'They tax us, we tax them' "If they tax us, we tax them the same amount," Trump told reporters at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on Monday (Dec 16). "The word reciprocal is important because if somebody charges us - India, we don't have to talk about our own - if India charges us 100 per cent, do we charge them nothing for the same? You know, they send in a bicycle, and we send them a bicycle. They charge us 100 and 200," he added. "India charges a lot. Brazil charges a lot. If they want to charge us, that's fine, but we're going to charge them the same thing," he further said. 'The idea that...' On November 30, Trump issued a stark warning to India and other BRICS nations, threatening them with a 100 per cent tariff if they continue to pursue other currencies to replace the US dollar for trade. Also read | Luigi Mangione, suspect in UnitedHealthcare CEO's murder, agrees to return to New York for trial BRICS is a group of economies like Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, alongside recent additions like Iran, Egypt, and the UAE. "The idea that the BRICS countries are trying to move away from the Dollar while we stand by and watch is OVER, "Trump said. (With inputs from agencies)

India preparing to tackle Trump's likely tariff on export goods: Report

India is planning to impose a safeguard duty of up to 25% on steel imports to curb a surge in cheap supplies, primarily from China. This proposal gained momentum during a recent meeting chaired by commerce minister Piyush Goyal, where small industries dropped their opposition after receiving assurances of affordable steel supplies.

India May Impose Steel Import Tax To Curb Chinese Influx

India is planning to impose a safeguard duty of up to 25% on steel imports to curb a surge in cheap supplies, primarily from China. This proposal gained momentum during a recent meeting chaired by commerce minister Piyush Goyal, where small industries dropped their opposition after receiving assurances of affordable steel supplies.



The international energy agency’s latest report highlights a significant milestone in the global coal market. Coal demand is projected to reach a record 8.77 billion tonnes in 2024. However, despite this surge, the IEA forecasts that global coal consumption will level off through 2027.

Global Coal Demand To Hit Record High In 2024, IEA Forecasts

The international energy agency’s latest report highlights a significant milestone in the global coal market. Coal demand is projected to reach a record 8.77 billion tonnes in 2024. However, despite this surge, the IEA forecasts that global coal consumption will level off through 2027.



United States (US) President-elect Donald Trump said on Thursday (Dec 19) that Congress should get rid of the debt ceiling. Speaking to NBC News, Trump said that getting rid of the debt ceiling would be the smartest thing that Congress would do.

In other news, with the Winter Session of the Indian Parliament coming to an end soon, lawmakers of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition INDIA bloc held protests, leading to a scuffle in which two BJP MPs were injured and had to be rushed to the hospital.

Click on the headlines to read more

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-elect-donald-trump-says-congress-should-get-rid-of-debt-ceiling-785376">US President-elect Donald Trump says Congress should get rid of debt ceiling</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/19/472143-untitled-5.png?imwidth=400" />

United States (US) President-elect Donald Trump said on Thursday (Dec 19) that Congress should get rid of the debt ceiling. Speaking to NBC News, Trump said that getting rid of the debt ceiling would be the smartest thing that Congress would do.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-parliament-scuffle-becomes-a-war-of-words-between-bjp-and-congress-who-said-what-785299">Indian Parliament scuffle becomes a war of words between BJP and Congress</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/19/472086-untitled-2.png?imwidth=400" />

With the Winter Session of the Indian&nbsp;Parliament coming to an end soon, lawmakers of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition INDIA bloc held protests, leading to a scuffle in which two BJP MPs were injured and had to be rushed to the hospital.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-very-difficult-ordeal-gisele-pelicots-first-words-after-verdict-in-france-mass-rape-trial-785338">A very difficult ordeal: Gisele Pelicot's first words after verdict in France mass rape trial</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/19/472116-untitled-3.png?imwidth=400" />

Frenchwoman Gisele Pelicot, who was the victim of the mass drugging-and-rape case that was orchestrated by her former husband Dominique Pelicot, gave her first reaction on Thursday (Dec 19)&nbsp;after 51 men, including Dominique, were found guilty in the trial.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/luigi-mangione-suspect-in-unitedhealthcare-ceos-murder-agrees-to-return-to-new-york-for-trial-785373">UnitedHealthcare CEO's murder suspect agrees to return to New York for trial</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/11/470609-succession-2024-12-11t094936621.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson has agreed to return to New York to face charges. Mangione consented to extradition during a court hearing in Pennsylvania on Thursday (December 19), where he was arrested last week after running from authorities for five days.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-doubts-israel-main-beneficiary-of-assad-regimes-fall-would-withdraw-troops-from-buffer-zone-785332">Doubt Israel will withdraw troops from Syria buffer zone, says Putin</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/19/472111-wion-news-latest-3.png?imwidth=400" />

Russian President Vladimir Putin said he has doubts that Israel would withdraw its troops from the Israel-Syria border buffer zone after the situation stabilises. In a press conference, Putin also said Israel is the main beneficiary of the Assad regime's downfall in Syria. He condemned Israel's seizure of territories in Syria.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-oppns-impeachment-notice-to-dismiss-vice-president-jagdeep-dhankhar-dismissed-785285">Indian oppn's impeachment notice against Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar dismissed</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/19/472078-untitled-1.png?imwidth=400" />

Rajya Sabha's Deputy Chairman Harivansh on Thursday (Dec 19) dismissed the impeachment notice given by Indian opposition lawmakers seeking the removal of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, the news agency PTI reported citing sources.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vijay-mallya-refutes-fm-sitharamans-rs-14131bn-debt-recovery-claim-says-entitled-to-relief-785284">Vijay Mallya says he paid double of his debt amount, claims 'entitled to relief'</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/19/472077-sitharaman-mallya.png?imwidth=400" />

Fugitive businessman&nbsp;Vijay Mallya&nbsp;claimed on Wednesday (Dec 18) that more than double the amount that Kingfisher was owing in the case involving its airlines has been recovered by the banks.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-mass-rape-trial-who-are-the-51-men-accused-of-raping-gisele-pelicot-785329">France mass rape trial: Who are the 51 men accused of raping Gisèle Pelicot?</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/11/19/466824-wion-web-team-bugs-and-banners-70.jpg?imwidth=400" />

A French court has convicted all 51 defendants in a shocking mass rape trial that has drawn worldwide attention. The three-month trial exposed a case centred on Dominique Pelicot, who drugged his then-wife, Gisèle Pelicot, for nearly a decade, enabling dozens of men to assault her while she was unconscious. He also recorded the abuse.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-ashwin-shrugs-off-fathers-humiliation-remark-over-shock-retirement-says-he-isnt-media-trained-785340">BGT - Ashwin shrugs off father's ‘humiliation’ remark over shock retirement</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/19/472118-bgt-ashwin-shrugs-off-fathers-humiliation-remark-over-shock-retirement.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Ravichandran Ashwin announced his international retirement following the Gabba Test conclusion against Australia, with his father claiming ‘humiliation’ among the potential reasons behind his shock call. The ace spinner, however, quickly responded to his father’s comments, saying he is not media-trained and should be forgiven and left alone.

<section>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/yearender-2024-movie-binge-guide-top-7-picks-from-ott-content-785212">Yearender 2024 Movie Binge Guide: Top 6 Picks from OTT</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/19/472067-1713455597785.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

As the year draws to a close, this is the perfect time to revisit some of the best content that OTT streamers had to offer us. 2024 had some amazing shows, and films that had a message, entertained us, and gave us something to ponder. Here’s our pick of some heartfelt films that were released on OTT.&nbsp;
</section>

United States (US) President-elect Donald Trump said on Thursday (Dec 19) that Congress should get rid of the debt ceiling. Speaking to NBC News, Trump said that getting rid of the debt ceiling would be the smartest thing that Congress would do.

United States (US) President-elect Donald Trump said on Thursday (Dec 19) that Congress should get rid of the debt ceiling. Speaking to NBC News, Trump said that getting rid of the debt ceiling would be the smartest thing that Congress would do. In other news, with the Winter Session of the Indian Parliament coming to an end soon, lawmakers of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition INDIA bloc held protests, leading to a scuffle in which two BJP MPs were injured and had to be rushed to the hospital. Click on the headlines to read more US President-elect Donald Trump says Congress should get rid of debt ceiling United States (US) President-elect Donald Trump said on Thursday (Dec 19) that Congress should get rid of the debt ceiling. Speaking to NBC News, Trump said that getting rid of the debt ceiling would be the smartest thing that Congress would do. Indian Parliament scuffle becomes a war of words between BJP and Congress With the Winter Session of the Indian Parliament coming to an end soon, lawmakers of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition INDIA bloc held protests, leading to a scuffle in which two BJP MPs were injured and had to be rushed to the hospital. A very difficult ordeal: Gisele Pelicot's first words after verdict in France mass rape trial Frenchwoman Gisele Pelicot, who was the victim of the mass drugging-and-rape case that was orchestrated by her former husband Dominique Pelicot, gave her first reaction on Thursday (Dec 19) after 51 men, including Dominique, were found guilty in the trial. UnitedHealthcare CEO's murder suspect agrees to return to New York for trial Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson has agreed to return to New York to face charges. Mangione consented to extradition during a court hearing in Pennsylvania on Thursday (December 19), where he was arrested last week after running from authorities for five days. Doubt Israel will withdraw troops from Syria buffer zone, says Putin Russian President Vladimir Putin said he has doubts that Israel would withdraw its troops from the Israel-Syria border buffer zone after the situation stabilises. In a press conference, Putin also said Israel is the main beneficiary of the Assad regime's downfall in Syria. He condemned Israel's seizure of territories in Syria. Indian oppn's impeachment notice against Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar dismissed Rajya Sabha's Deputy Chairman Harivansh on Thursday (Dec 19) dismissed the impeachment notice given by Indian opposition lawmakers seeking the removal of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, the news agency PTI reported citing sources. Vijay Mallya says he paid double of his debt amount, claims 'entitled to relief' Fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya claimed on Wednesday (Dec 18) that more than double the amount that Kingfisher was owing in the case involving its airlines has been recovered by the banks. France mass rape trial: Who are the 51 men accused of raping Gisèle Pelicot? A French court has convicted all 51 defendants in a shocking mass rape trial that has drawn worldwide attention. The three-month trial exposed a case centred on Dominique Pelicot, who drugged his then-wife, Gisèle Pelicot, for nearly a decade, enabling dozens of men to assault her while she was unconscious. He also recorded the abuse. BGT - Ashwin shrugs off father's ‘humiliation’ remark over shock retirement Ravichandran Ashwin announced his international retirement following the Gabba Test conclusion against Australia, with his father claiming ‘humiliation’ among the potential reasons behind his shock call. The ace spinner, however, quickly responded to his father’s comments, saying he is not media-trained and should be forgiven and left alone. Yearender 2024 Movie Binge Guide: Top 6 Picks from OTT As the year draws to a close, this is the perfect time to revisit some of the best content that OTT streamers had to offer us. 2024 had some amazing shows, and films that had a message, entertained us, and gave us something to ponder. Here’s our pick of some heartfelt films that were released on OTT.

Top 10 world news: Trump says Congress should get rid of debt ceiling; Indian Parliament scuffle, and more

Once again, Nissan motor is in a desperate situation and may go to another Japanese automaker for assistance. Merger talks between Nissan and Honda motor have sparked speculation that the two companies may form a partnership to compete with Toyota motor.

Nissan Stock Surge Of 24% Marks Biggest Jump In 50 Years

Once again, Nissan motor is in a desperate situation and may go to another Japanese automaker for assistance. Merger talks between Nissan and Honda motor have sparked speculation that the two companies may form a partnership to compete with Toyota motor.



Europe was the largest buyer of natural gas three years ago, while Russia was the leading exporter. While that scenario has changed since Russia's full invasion of Ukraine, Europe is still struggling to kick its Russian energy habit.

Russia-EU Energy Trade Slumps But Still Exist

Europe was the largest buyer of natural gas three years ago, while Russia was the leading exporter. While that scenario has changed since Russia's full invasion of Ukraine, Europe is still struggling to kick its Russian energy habit.



An Indian man was arrested in Florida for allegedly attempting to engage in sexual activities with a minor, a statement from the US Attorney's Office said on Thursday (Dec 19). The 24-year-old man named Kirtan Patel is originally from the Indian state of Gujarat and was nabbed in July this year.&nbsp;

Patel is facing a minimum of 10 years in prison, and that may get extended to life imprisonment. The exact date of the sentence has not been decided yet.&nbsp;

He was among 33 men of varied nationalities who were caught during a sting operation by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) with the help of the Ocala Police Department, Chiefland Police Department, and the Department of Homeland Security.

Patel was arrested after he approached a girl who he thought to be a 13-year-old. It was, in reality, an undercover officer posing to be the minor and "seeking to engage in sexual activity”.

Watch |&nbsp;India: 5 Terrorists Killed In South Kashmir During Encounter With Security Forces

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-5-terrorists-killed-in-south-kashmir-during-encounter-with-security-forces-785335/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The accused allegedly engaged in “sexually explicit conversations and graphically described the sexual acts”.

As per the indictment, between May 22 and 24, Patel approached an individual thinking it was a minor girl to engage in sexual activity. On July 18, he travelled to a location in Marion County to do the act with the child when he was nabbed. It was revealed that, including Patel, 33 men had “actually travelled to have sex with minors” and were arrested.&nbsp;

“Many of these (arrested) men arranged to meet with what they thought was a child between the ages of 13-15 years old. Some of them even travelled from outside of Florida to arrange meeting places. Deputies and detectives seized guns, drugs, cash, and vehicles from these offenders, and more arrests are expected as detectives follow up with various cases," the MCSO said in a statement.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vijay-mallya-refutes-fm-sitharamans-rs-14131bn-debt-recovery-claim-says-entitled-to-relief-785284">Vijay Mallya says he paid double of his debt amount, claims 'entitled to relief'</a>

“This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims,” it further added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

An Indian man was arrested in Florida for allegedly attempting to engage in sexual activities with a minor, a statement from the US Attorney's Office said on Thursday (Dec 19).

An Indian man was arrested in Florida for allegedly attempting to engage in sexual activities with a minor, a statement from the US Attorney's Office said on Thursday (Dec 19). The 24-year-old man named Kirtan Patel is originally from the Indian state of Gujarat and was nabbed in July this year. Patel is facing a minimum of 10 years in prison, and that may get extended to life imprisonment. The exact date of the sentence has not been decided yet. He was among 33 men of varied nationalities who were caught during a sting operation by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) with the help of the Ocala Police Department, Chiefland Police Department, and the Department of Homeland Security. Patel was arrested after he approached a girl who he thought to be a 13-year-old. It was, in reality, an undercover officer posing to be the minor and "seeking to engage in sexual activity”. Watch | India: 5 Terrorists Killed In South Kashmir During Encounter With Security Forces The accused allegedly engaged in “sexually explicit conversations and graphically described the sexual acts”. As per the indictment, between May 22 and 24, Patel approached an individual thinking it was a minor girl to engage in sexual activity. On July 18, he travelled to a location in Marion County to do the act with the child when he was nabbed. It was revealed that, including Patel, 33 men had “actually travelled to have sex with minors” and were arrested. “Many of these (arrested) men arranged to meet with what they thought was a child between the ages of 13-15 years old. Some of them even travelled from outside of Florida to arrange meeting places. Deputies and detectives seized guns, drugs, cash, and vehicles from these offenders, and more arrests are expected as detectives follow up with various cases," the MCSO said in a statement. Also read | Vijay Mallya says he paid double of his debt amount, claims 'entitled to relief' “This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims,” it further added. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian arrested in Florida for 'trying to engage in sexual activities with minor'

United States (US) President-elect Donald Trump said on Thursday (Dec 19) that Congress should get rid of the debt ceiling. Speaking to NBC News, Trump said that getting rid of the debt ceiling would be the smartest thing that Congress would do. “The Democrats have said they want to get rid of it. If they want to get rid of it, I would lead the charge,” Trump added. In the US, the debt ceiling is the legislative limit on the amount of national debt that can be incurred by the Treasury, thus limiting how much money the government may pay by borrowing more money, on the debt it already borrowed. 'Debt ceiling is a meaningless concept' Trump told NBC that the debt ceiling was a meaningless concept and that no one would know for sure what would happen if it were to someday be breached. “It doesn’t mean anything, except psychologically,” the president-elect added. What did Trump say about the possibility of a shutdown? Amid the possibility of a shutdown, which would occur at 12.01 am on Saturday if a funding deal wasn't reached, Trump told NBC, "If there’s going to be a shutdown, we’re going to start it with a Democratic president." Congress had last raised the debt ceiling in June 2023, suspending it through January 1, 2025. Trump also said that he discussed his views on the short-term funding deal with Elon Musk. “I told him (Musk) that if he agrees with me, that he could put out a statement,” he added. During his first term as president, Trump signed legislation three times to lift the ceilings. He had also floated the idea of eliminating the debt ceiling when he was in the White House. (With inputs from agencies)

US President-elect Donald Trump says Congress should get rid of debt ceiling

Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, has agreed to return to New York to face charges. Mangione consented to extradition during a court hearing in Pennsylvania on Thursday (December 19), where he was arrested last week after running from authorities for five days.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/who-is-luigi-mangione-key-suspect-arrested-in-killing-of-unitedhealth-ceo-782840">Who is Luigi Mangione? Key suspect charged for murder, terrorism in killing of UnitedHealth CEO</a>

Mangione, aged 26, waived his preliminary hearing on charges in Pennsylvania in exchange for receiving a 20-page investigative report from Altoona police. Blair County Judge David Consiglio then ordered that Mangione be handed over to New York authorities. As per local media reports, there were at least a dozen uniformed NYPD officers present in the courtroom, ready to take&nbsp;Mangione to New York.

<h2>Luigi Mangione charged with act of terrorism</h2>

Earlier this week, US prosecutors formally charged Mangione with the murder of Brian Thompson. The charges include one count of first-degree murder, two counts of second-degree murder, one of which is classified as an act of terrorism, and several weapons-related offences related to the alleged use of a 3D-printed firearm.

“This was not an ordinary killing,” Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said, explaining the terrorism charge. “In its most basic terms, this was a killing intended to evoke terror, and we’ve seen that reaction.”

If convicted, Mangione could face life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.

Watch |&nbsp;Luigi Mangione: Who Is The Man Accused Of Killing UnitedHealthcare’s CEO?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/luigi-mangione-who-is-the-man-accused-of-killing-unitedhealthcares-ceo-783264/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Mangione, a University of Pennsylvania graduate, is accused of shooting Thompson outside a Manhattan hotel on 4 December. At the time of the incident, Thompson, who was the CEO of the largest health insurer in the United States, was reportedly on his way to an investor conference.

Authorities claim Mangione travelled to New York on 24 November with the specific intent to kill Thompson. On the day of the murder, he allegedly waited outside the hotel for nearly an hour before carrying out the attack.

Investigators believe a "life-altering" back injury may have motivated Mangione, although there is no evidence to suggest he was ever a client of UnitedHealthcare. When arrested, Mangione was found in possession of a handwritten, three-page manifesto criticising the US healthcare system.

(With inputs from agencies)

Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, has agreed to return to New York to face charges. Mangione consented to extradition during a court hearing in Pennsylvania on Thursday (December 19), where he was arrested last week after running from authorities for five days.

Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, has agreed to return to New York to face charges. Mangione consented to extradition during a court hearing in Pennsylvania on Thursday (December 19), where he was arrested last week after running from authorities for five days. Also read: Who is Luigi Mangione? Key suspect charged for murder, terrorism in killing of UnitedHealth CEO Mangione, aged 26, waived his preliminary hearing on charges in Pennsylvania in exchange for receiving a 20-page investigative report from Altoona police. Blair County Judge David Consiglio then ordered that Mangione be handed over to New York authorities. As per local media reports, there were at least a dozen uniformed NYPD officers present in the courtroom, ready to take Mangione to New York. Luigi Mangione charged with act of terrorism Earlier this week, US prosecutors formally charged Mangione with the murder of Brian Thompson. The charges include one count of first-degree murder, two counts of second-degree murder, one of which is classified as an act of terrorism, and several weapons-related offences related to the alleged use of a 3D-printed firearm. “This was not an ordinary killing,” Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said, explaining the terrorism charge. “In its most basic terms, this was a killing intended to evoke terror, and we’ve seen that reaction.” If convicted, Mangione could face life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. Watch | Luigi Mangione: Who Is The Man Accused Of Killing UnitedHealthcare’s CEO? Mangione, a University of Pennsylvania graduate, is accused of shooting Thompson outside a Manhattan hotel on 4 December. At the time of the incident, Thompson, who was the CEO of the largest health insurer in the United States, was reportedly on his way to an investor conference. Authorities claim Mangione travelled to New York on 24 November with the specific intent to kill Thompson. On the day of the murder, he allegedly waited outside the hotel for nearly an hour before carrying out the attack. Investigators believe a "life-altering" back injury may have motivated Mangione, although there is no evidence to suggest he was ever a client of UnitedHealthcare. When arrested, Mangione was found in possession of a handwritten, three-page manifesto criticising the US healthcare system. (With inputs from agencies)

Luigi Mangione, suspect in UnitedHealthcare CEO's murder, agrees to return to New York for trial

Kenya plans to use assisted reproduction techniques to save the northern white rhino — a species that has only two females remaining worldwide — from the brink of extinction.

Kenya Plans IVF To Save Northern White Rhinos

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence stated that it detected 10 Chinese military aircraft and 5 naval vessels around its territory on Wednesday. Watch in for more details!

Taiwan Identifies 10 Chinese Military Aircraft and 5 Naval Vessels

Ukraine's security service claimed responsibility for killing the head of Russia's chemical, radiological and biological weapons unit, Igor Kirillov. Watch this report for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine's Security Service Claims Assassination of Russian General

An unusual illness known locally as 'Dinga Dinga,' meaning "shaking like dancing," has been reported in Uganda’s Bundibugyo district, primarily affecting women and girls.

An unusual illness known locally as 'Dinga Dinga,' meaning "shaking like dancing," has been reported in Uganda’s Bundibugyo district, primarily affecting women and girls. The condition is characterised by fever and uncontrollable body tremors, which limit body movements, according to local media. What are some symptoms of 'Dinga Dinga'? Symptoms of the illness include severe shaking, high fever, extreme weakness, and in some extreme cases, paralysis. So far, approximately 300 cases have been recorded, but no deaths have been reported. Reports indicate that those affected find it difficult to walk due to the constant trembling. The exact cause of the illness remains unclear, but health officials are investigating the outbreak. Dr. Kiyita Christopher, the District Health Officer for Bundibugyo, told local media that the illness has not been observed outside the Bundibugyo region. Samples have been sent to Uganda’s Ministry of Health for further analysis. Also read: Woman demands $40,000 back after cheating on boyfriend with his nephew, court says no “There is no scientific evidence that herbal medicine can treat this disease,” Dr Christopher said as per the Daily Mail. “We are using specific treatments, and patients usually recover within a week. I urge locals to seek treatment from health facilities within the district,” he added. The illness, which was first reported in early 2023, is being closely monitored by health laboratories. Dr Christopher told the public that it is generally treatable with antibiotics and that no fatalities have occurred so far. Health officials have advised residents to maintain proper hygiene, avoid contact with infected individuals, and report new cases to health authorities to contain the spread of the disease. The unusual symptoms of 'Dinga Dinga' have drawn comparisons to the historical “Dancing Plague” of 1518 in Strasbourg, France, where hundreds of people experienced uncontrollable dancing movements for days and some even died due to exhaustion. While there is no confirmed link between the two, the similarities in symptoms have sparked comparisons. This outbreak follows a recent monkeypox crisis in Uganda and other East African countries. The World Health Organisation (WHO) declared the strain, also called mpox, a global public health emergency in August, citing international concern over outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and neighbouring nations. (With inputs from agencies)

Mystery illness 'Dinga Dinga' leaves 300 in Uganda shaking uncontrollably

Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, have been indicted in a corruption case related to illegal financial dealings. The charges stem from accusations of misappropriating funds during Khan's tenure as Pakistan's Prime Minister.

Pakistan: Imran Khan And Wife Bushra Bibi Indicted In Corruption Case

Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, have been indicted in a corruption case related to illegal financial dealings. The charges stem from accusations of misappropriating funds during Khan's tenure as Pakistan's Prime Minister.



Two bus accidents involving a fuel tanker and a truck on a highway in central Afghanistan killed at least 52 people and injured 68, a provincial official said Thursday (Dec 19).

Two bus accidents involving a fuel tanker and a truck on a highway in central Afghanistan killed at least 52 people and injured 68, a provincial official said Thursday (Dec 19). The accidents happened in Ghazni province on the same highway between the capital Kabul and southern Kandahar city late Wednesday, provincial head of information and culture Hamidullah Nisar said on X, without specifying how many people were killed and injured in each accident. "There is a possibility the numbers could rise," Nisar told reporters outside a hospital in Ghazni city where victims had been sent. He noted that some of the injured were in a "critical condition" and had been sent to Kabul for treatment. "Among the injured and dead were children, women, and elderly people," he added. One bus collided with a fuel tanker near Shahbaz village in central Ghazni, while the other hit a truck in the eastern district of Andar, Nisar said. Watch | India: 5 Terrorists Killed In South Kashmir During Encounter With Security Forces Chief government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid posted on X that the authorities had "great regret" over the accidents and that an investigation would be launched. Teams worked to clear debris at the sites into the morning, with hunks of metal and broken glass strewn across the area in Andar along with the clothes and meals of bus passengers, an AFP journalist saw. One of the injured in the accident in Shahbaz, Khadim, said he was jolted awake by the noise of the accident but then lost consciousness. When he came to and pulled himself from the wreck, he "saw there were a lot of people under the vehicle and on the ground around us, there was crying and blood everywhere". The two destroyed buses were transported to a lot in Ghazni city, their crushed and twisted frames and seats splattered with blood. The vehicles "were badly damaged" and the bus had been "bashed around" said Rahim, who was at the site in Shahbaz not long after the accident. Also read | Italy's Giorgia Meloni speaks on her friendship with Musk, says 'Don't take orders from anyone' "We were gathering the stuff from the site, and there were human legs, I buried them there, it was a very intense accident," he told AFP. Traffic accidents are common in Afghanistan, due in part to poor roads after decades of conflict, dangerous driving on highways, and a lack of regulation. In March, more than 20 people were killed and 38 injured when a bus collided with a fuel tanker and burst into flames in southern Helmand province. Another serious accident involving a fuel tanker took place in December 2022, when the vehicle overturned and caught fire in Afghanistan's high-altitude Salang Pass, killing 31 people. 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.

52 killed in two bus accidents in central Afghanistan

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday he was ready for talks "anytime" with US President-elect Donald Trump, who has touted his ability to strike a Ukraine peace deal within hours of coming to office.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday he was ready for talks "anytime" with US President-elect Donald Trump, who has touted his ability to strike a Ukraine peace deal within hours of coming to office. Trump, who will return to the White House in January, has stoked fears in Kyiv that he could force Ukraine to accept peace on terms favourable to Moscow. Holding his annual end-of-year press conference, the Kremlin leader said his troops held the upper hand across the battlefield but was forced to admit he does not know when Russia will take back the western Kursk region where Ukrainian troops launched an incursion in August. The traditional annual question and answer sessions, often lasting hours, are largely a televised show while also being a rare setting in which he is put on the spot and answers some uncomfortable questions. Asked about Trump's overtures regarding a possible peace deal, Putin, 72, said he would welcome a meeting with the incoming Republican. "I don't know when I'm going to see him. He isn't saying anything about it. I haven't talked to him in more than four years. I am ready for it, of course. Any time," Putin said. Watch | IDF Confirms Intercepting Missiles Fired By Houthis "If we ever have a meeting with President-elect Trump, I am sure we'll have a lot to talk about," he said, adding that Russia was ready for "negotiations and compromises". Kursk offensive Russia's troops have been advancing in eastern Ukraine for months, with Putin repeatedly touting their prowess on the battlefield. But asked by a woman from the Kursk region when residents would be able to return to their homes there after thousands were evacuated from frontline areas amid the Ukrainian assault, Putin said he could not name a date. "We will kick them out. Absolutely. It can't be any other way. But the question of a specific date, I'm sorry, I cannot say right now," he admitted. Putin was also pressed on economic headwinds facing Russia—the fallout from a huge ramp-up in military spending and deep labour shortages caused by the conflict. He insisted that the situation is "stable, despite external threats", citing low unemployment and industrial growth. Asked about soaring inflation, Putin said that "inflation is a worrying signal," and that price rises for foods such as butter and meat are "unpleasant". Also read | Putin doubts Israel, 'main beneficiary of Assad regime's fall', would withdraw troops from buffer zone He acknowledged that Western sanctions were also a factor—"while"they do not have key significance"—and" criticised the central bank, saying it should have taken measures beyond raising rates to lower inflation. Oreshnik 'duel' Putin appeared to repeat his threat to strike Kyiv with Russia's new hypersonic ballistic missile, dubbed Oreshnik. Asked by a military journalist if the weapon had any flaws, Putin suggested a "hi-tech duel" between the West and Russia to test his claims that it is impervious to air defences. "Let them set some target to be hit, let's say in Kyiv. They will concentrate there all their air defences. And we will launch an Oreshnik strike there and see what happens," Putin proposed. Putin also called the killing of a senior Russian army general in a brazen assassination in Moscow two days earlier "terrorism", in his first comments on the attack, while also slamming failings by security services. Igor Kirillov, the head of the Russian military's chemical weapons unit, was killed by a bomb planted in a scooter outside a residential block in Moscow, the boldest assassination claimed by Kyiv since the start of the conflict. Russia has since arrested the suspected perpetrator. "Our special services are missing these hits," the former KGB agent said in a rare admission of failures by the security services, listing other recent killings. "We must not allow such very serious blunders to happen," he said. Assad's fall not a 'defeat' Also read | France mass rape trial: Who are the 51 men accused of raping Gisèle Pelicot? In his first public comments since the fall of ex-Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, Putin rejected claims that his toppling was a "defeat" for Russia. "You want to present what is happening in Syria as a defeat for Russia. I assure you it is not," Putin said in response to a question from a journalist. "We came to Syria 10 years ago so that a terrorist enclave would not be created there like in Afghanistan. On the whole, we have achieved our goal," Putin said. Putin said he has not yet met Assad, who fled to Moscow as rebels closed in on Damascus, but plans to soon. The Kremlin chief said Israel was the "main beneficiary" of events in Syria and called for it to withdraw troops from the "territory of Syria". 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.

Putin ready to meet Trump 'anytime' to talk Ukraine deal

The E3 nations have raised concerns over Iran's growing uranium stockpile, accusing the country of increasing it to unprecedented levels. This development heightens fears about Iran's nuclear ambitions and the potential impact on global security.

E3 Accuses Iran Of Expanding Uranium Stockpile To Unprecedented Levels

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