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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.

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. “I want you to know that we share the same fight,” the 72-year-old Gisele told reporters in her first words after the court in the southern French city of Avignon handed down prison sentences ranging from three to 20 years in the shocking case that stunned France and spurred a national reckoning about the blight of rape culture. Also watch | France mass rape trial: Who are the 51 men accused of raping Gisele Pelicot? Gisele expressed gratitude towards the people who supported her. “Your messages moved me deeply, and they gave me the strength to come back, every day, and survive through these long daily hearings,” she added. The case and the court's verdict On Thursday, Dominique Pelicot was sentenced to 20 years in prison over drugging Gisele and allowing a mass rape (of the woman) by strangers recruited online. The crime went on for almost a decade. Apart from Pelicot, 50 other men were found guilty. The dozens of other defendants were handed terms of up to 15 years, which women's rights groups and the three Pelicot children, according to a source, condemned as too lenient, a report by the news agency AFP said. They received jail terms of between three and 15 years, but this was in all cases less than what prosecutors had demanded and, in some cases, even half. Two of the defendants had their jail terms suspended. Also watch | WION Dispatch- France mass rape trial: All defendants convicted Under the terms of the sentencing, six accused were allowed to walk free from the court. Only the sentence given to Dominique Pelicot was fully in line with what the prosecutors demanded. A family member told AFP that the three Pelicot children "are disappointed by these low sentences." There was "no question" of any of the children wanting to speak to their father after the conviction, the family member said. Gisele becomes a feminist hero at home The trial garnered immense interest in the wake of Giesele's decision to allow the trial to be open to the public from the outset and waive her right to anonymity. She has become a feminist hero at home and abroad for refusing to be ashamed, waiving her right to a closed trial, and standing up to her aggressors in court. (With inputs from agencies)

A very difficult ordeal: Gisele Pelicot's first words after verdict in France mass rape trial

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Dominique Pelicot was found guilty by a French court of five judges on Thursday (Dec 19) of drugging and the mass rape of his then-wife Gisèle Pelicot. The 72-year-old man has been handed the maximum sentence for his charges, 20 years in prison. He had been accused of repeatedly raping, and enlisting strangers to abuse, his heavily sedated wife for over a decade. Watch in for more details!

France Mass Rape Trial: Gisèle Pelicot's Ex-Husband Dominique Sentenced To 20 Years In Prison

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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;

“We hope that Israel will at some point leave the territory of Syria. But now it is bringing in additional troops,” Putin said.&nbsp;

<h2>'A defensive measure'</h2>

On December 8, Netanyahu said that he had ordered the Israeli military to seize a buffer zone on the border with Syria after Bashar al-Assad fled Syria.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Kyiv Could Receive Nuclear Weapons After Major Drone Attack

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-losing-ground-to-relentless-russian-attacks-783570/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Netanyahu said a 50-year-old "disengagement agreement" between the two countries had collapsed and "Syrian forces have abandoned their positions".

&nbsp;"I directed the IDF (military) yesterday to seize the buffer zone and the commanding positions nearby. We will not allow any hostile force to establish itself on our border," he further said.&nbsp;

However, IDF said its deployment in the buffer zone is just a defensive and temporary measure amid the chaos in the country.

Netanyahu's announcement came after the IDF said it had deployed forces to the area.

<h2>'A direct result of...'</h2>

Furthermore, Netanyahu even claimed credit for starting the events that eventually led to the fall of the Assad regime in Syria.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-reservist-charged-in-netanyahus-office-leak-scandal-asks-for-pardon-785322">IDF reservist charged in Netanyahu's office leak scandal asks for pardon</a>

During a visit to Mount Bental on Israel’s border with Syria, Netanyahu said, "This is a historic day in the history of the Middle East. The Assad regime is a central link in Iran’s axis of evil—this regime has fallen."&nbsp;

“This is a direct result of the blows we have inflicted on Iran and Hezbollah, the main supporters of the Assad regime,” he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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.

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. “We hope that Israel will at some point leave the territory of Syria. But now it is bringing in additional troops,” Putin said. 'A defensive measure' On December 8, Netanyahu said that he had ordered the Israeli military to seize a buffer zone on the border with Syria after Bashar al-Assad fled Syria. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Kyiv Could Receive Nuclear Weapons After Major Drone Attack Netanyahu said a 50-year-old "disengagement agreement" between the two countries had collapsed and "Syrian forces have abandoned their positions". "I directed the IDF (military) yesterday to seize the buffer zone and the commanding positions nearby. We will not allow any hostile force to establish itself on our border," he further said. However, IDF said its deployment in the buffer zone is just a defensive and temporary measure amid the chaos in the country. Netanyahu's announcement came after the IDF said it had deployed forces to the area. 'A direct result of...' Furthermore, Netanyahu even claimed credit for starting the events that eventually led to the fall of the Assad regime in Syria. Also read | IDF reservist charged in Netanyahu's office leak scandal asks for pardon During a visit to Mount Bental on Israel’s border with Syria, Netanyahu said, "This is a historic day in the history of the Middle East. The Assad regime is a central link in Iran’s axis of evil—this regime has fallen." “This is a direct result of the blows we have inflicted on Iran and Hezbollah, the main supporters of the Assad regime,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin doubts Israel, 'main beneficiary of Assad regime's fall', would withdraw troops from buffer zone

The reservist at the Israeli Defence Force (IDF), who was charged for the leak of security documents at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office, has asked the president for a pardon.&nbsp;

The officer, whose name has not been revealed due to a gag order, was charged along with&nbsp;Eli Feldstein, an aide to Netanyahu. He was charged with transferring classified information, which is a punishable act in Israel with seven years in prison. He was also&nbsp;charged with theft by an authorised person and obstruction of justice.

The officer's lawyer wrote a letter to the president saying the officer “understood that his acts were forbidden and would not repeat them".&nbsp;

The letter further added, “If the criminal proceedings taken against him, within the framework of an indictment full of errors, distortions and distortions, a procedure that should never have happened, are not enough, he was ordered detained until the end of the proceedings by the Supreme Court’s decision, which, with all due respect, is a fundamental mistake."

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine Losing Ground to Relentless Russian Attacks

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-losing-ground-to-relentless-russian-attacks-783570/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The leaked document to the German tabloid Bild in September was said to be highly classified. The document, according to reports, had&nbsp;details regarding Hamas’s priorities and tactics in hostage negotiations.

<h2>'Serious security leaks case'</h2>

In November, Eli Feldstein, an official from Netanyahu’s office, was revealed as the main suspect in the “serious security leaks case”.

Four Israelis, including the official, have been arrested in connection with the serious security leaks case.

According to a ruling published Sunday (Nov 3) by Rishon Lezion Magistrate Court head Menahem Mizrahi, Feldstein, who has served as a spokesperson in the Prime Minister’s Office, is accused of divulging top-secret information with national security implications to European media outlets.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italys-giorgia-meloni-speaks-on-her-friendship-with-musk-says-dont-take-orders-from-anyone-785310">Italy's Giorgia Meloni speaks on her friendship with Musk, says 'Don't take orders from anyone'</a>

Netanyahu had sought to distance himself from the case, as he claims&nbsp;no one from his office was arrested or was under investigation.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

The reservist at the Israeli Defence Force (IDF), who was charged for the leak of security documents at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office, has asked the president for a pardon.

The reservist at the Israeli Defence Force (IDF), who was charged for the leak of security documents at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office, has asked the president for a pardon. The officer, whose name has not been revealed due to a gag order, was charged along with Eli Feldstein, an aide to Netanyahu. He was charged with transferring classified information, which is a punishable act in Israel with seven years in prison. He was also charged with theft by an authorised person and obstruction of justice. The officer's lawyer wrote a letter to the president saying the officer “understood that his acts were forbidden and would not repeat them". The letter further added, “If the criminal proceedings taken against him, within the framework of an indictment full of errors, distortions and distortions, a procedure that should never have happened, are not enough, he was ordered detained until the end of the proceedings by the Supreme Court’s decision, which, with all due respect, is a fundamental mistake." Watch | Ukraine Losing Ground to Relentless Russian Attacks The leaked document to the German tabloid Bild in September was said to be highly classified. The document, according to reports, had details regarding Hamas’s priorities and tactics in hostage negotiations. 'Serious security leaks case' In November, Eli Feldstein, an official from Netanyahu’s office, was revealed as the main suspect in the “serious security leaks case”. Four Israelis, including the official, have been arrested in connection with the serious security leaks case. According to a ruling published Sunday (Nov 3) by Rishon Lezion Magistrate Court head Menahem Mizrahi, Feldstein, who has served as a spokesperson in the Prime Minister’s Office, is accused of divulging top-secret information with national security implications to European media outlets. Also read | Italy's Giorgia Meloni speaks on her friendship with Musk, says 'Don't take orders from anyone' Netanyahu had sought to distance himself from the case, as he claims no one from his office was arrested or was under investigation. (With inputs from agencies)

IDF reservist charged in Netanyahu's office leak scandal, asks for pardon

Disclaimer: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised.

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.

Dominique Pelicot was convicted of aggravated rape and sentenced to 20 years in prison—the maximum penalty. The other 50 men, aged between 26 and 74, were also found guilty of rape, attempted rape, or sexual assault, with sentences of up to 20 years. The group included individuals from a wide range of professions, such as a soldier, a journalist, a prison warden, a nurse, and farm workers.

Here's a list of all the&nbsp;men convicted in the case:

Cyrille D (54): A trained butcher, Cyrille raped Gisèle in her home in September 2019 while his partner was on holiday. He said he turned to an online chatroom due to dissatisfaction in his relationship.

Lionel R (44): A supermarket employee and married father of three, Lionel admitted to raping Gisèle in December 2018 but claimed he did not intend to commit rape.

Jacques C (72): A retired firefighter and former truck driver, Jacques denied rape, saying he touched Gisèle but there was no penetration.

Watch:&nbsp;France Mass Rape Trial: French Court Convicts Husband Dominique Pelicot

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-mass-rape-trial-french-court-convicts-husband-dominique-pelicot-785302/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Jean-Pierre M (63): A former lorry driver, Jean-Pierre was accused of using the same method to drug and rape his own wife. He also invited Dominique Pelicot to join in the abuse.

Joan K (26): A soldier and the youngest man on trial, Joan raped Gisèle twice between 2019 and 2020. He claimed he did not understand consent at the time.

Hugues M (39): A tiller and father of two, Hugues was accused of attempted rape in October 2019. He denied the charge, saying he did not realise Gisèle was drugged.

Husamettin D (43): A father who cared for his disabled son, Husamettin denied raping Gisèle in June 2019, saying, “I’m not a rapist.”

Fabien S (39): With 16 prior convictions, Fabien admitted to raping Gisèle in August 2018 but said he did not plan the crime.

Mathieu D (53): A baker for 25 years, Mathieu raped Gisèle in October 2020 while under the influence of MDMA, thinking it was part of a consensual game.

Andy R (37): An agricultural labourer and father of two, Andy raped Gisèle on New Year’s Eve 2018, believing her husband’s permission meant she had consented.

Simone M (42): A builder and former soldier, Simone raped Gisèle in November 2018. He claimed she was pretending to sleep.

Thierry Po (61): A refrigeration specialist and father of three, Thierry admitted to possessing child abuse images but denied raping Gisèle in August 2020.

Jérôme V (46): A former grocery store worker and father of three, Jérôme admitted to knowing Gisèle had been drugged when he raped her.

Thierry Pa (54): A former builder, Thierry raped Gisèle in 2020. He was identified while undergoing psychiatric treatment for depression.

Adrien L (34): Already serving a 14-year sentence for other rapes, Adrien denied raping Gisèle in 2014, claiming he thought it was a consensual game.

Jean T (52): A former roofer, Jean drove hours to rape Gisèle in 2018. He denied the charge, claiming he was drugged.

Redouan E (55): A nurse, Redouan denied raping Gisèle in 2020, saying he was manipulated by Dominique.

Patrick A (60): A former factory worker, Patrick admitted to raping Gisèle but said he participated reluctantly because he is gay.

Didier S (68): A former lorry driver, Didier denied raping Gisèle in 2019, claiming she pretended to sleep.

Karim S (40): A computer expert, Karim denied raping Gisèle in 2020.

Vincent C (42): Convicted of domestic violence in 2021, Vincent is accused of raping Gisèle in 2019 and 2020.

Jean-Marc L (74): The oldest defendant, Jean-Marc denied rape, saying he thought it was a “game.”

Dominique D (45): Accused of raping Gisèle six times, Dominique claimed he did not intend to commit rape.

Mohamed R (70): Previously jailed for raping his daughter, Mohamed raped Gisèle in 2019.

Ahmed T (54): A plumber and former boxer, Ahmed denied rape, saying he would not choose “an older woman.”

Redouane A (40): Convicted of domestic violence, Redouane raped Gisèle twice in 2019.

Mahdi D (36): A transport worker, Mahdi denied raping Gisèle in 2018, claiming Dominique misled him.

Cyril B (47): A lorry driver, Cyril denied rape despite video evidence.

Cyprien C (43): A former lorry driver, Cyprien admitted to a sexual encounter but denied rape.

Quentin H (34): A prison warden, Quentin raped Gisèle in 2019.

Grégory S (31): A decorator with prior convictions, Grégory denied raping Gisèle in 2017.

Florian R (32): A delivery driver, Florian denied raping Gisèle in 2019.

Jean-Luc L (46): Jean-Luc admitted to raping Gisèle twice in 2018, believing her husband’s consent was sufficient.

Patrice N (55): An electrician, Patrice claimed the assaults were part of a game.

Abdelali D (47): Admitting to rape, Abdelali said Dominique assured him Gisèle “wouldn’t wake up.”

Romain V (63): Romain raped Gisèle six times in 2019 and 2020. He denied wrongdoing, saying her husband’s consent sufficed.

Cédric G (50): A software technician, Cédric admitted to both rape and possession of child abuse images.

Hassan O (30): Tried in absentia, Hassan raped Gisèle in 2018.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-mass-rape-trial-dominique-pelicot-found-guilty-of-drugging-raping-wife-785232">France mass rape trial: Dominique Pelicot found guilty, gets 20 years in jail</a>

Cendric V (44): A former soldier, Cendric was accused of raping Gisèle in 2016 and 2018.

Ludovick B (39): A warehouse worker, Ludovick raped Gisèle in 2019.

Omar D (36): Omar raped Gisèle in 2017 but denied the charge.

Paul G (31): Paul raped Gisèle in 2016 after she was drugged at breakfast.

Saifeddine G (37): A lorry driver, Saifeddine raped Gisèle in 2019.

Charly A (30): Charly raped Gisèle six times between 2016 and 2020.

Christian L (56): A firefighter, Christian denied rape despite video evidence.

Nizar H (41): A builder, Nizar denied raping Gisèle in 2020.

Nicolas F (42): A journalist, Nicolas denied raping Gisèle in 2018 and possessing child abuse images.

Joseph C (69): Accused of sexual assault, Joseph denied wrongdoing during an encounter in 2020.

Boris M (37): Boris denied raping Gisèle in 2020, saying he was misled by Dominique.

Philippe L (62): A gardener, Philippe denied rape but admitted replying to Dominique’s online posts.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised. A French court has convicted all 51 defendants in a shocking mass rape trial that has drawn worldwide attention.

Disclaimer: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised. 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. Dominique Pelicot was convicted of aggravated rape and sentenced to 20 years in prison—the maximum penalty. The other 50 men, aged between 26 and 74, were also found guilty of rape, attempted rape, or sexual assault, with sentences of up to 20 years. The group included individuals from a wide range of professions, such as a soldier, a journalist, a prison warden, a nurse, and farm workers. Here's a list of all the men convicted in the case: Cyrille D (54): A trained butcher, Cyrille raped Gisèle in her home in September 2019 while his partner was on holiday. He said he turned to an online chatroom due to dissatisfaction in his relationship. Lionel R (44): A supermarket employee and married father of three, Lionel admitted to raping Gisèle in December 2018 but claimed he did not intend to commit rape. Jacques C (72): A retired firefighter and former truck driver, Jacques denied rape, saying he touched Gisèle but there was no penetration. Watch: France Mass Rape Trial: French Court Convicts Husband Dominique Pelicot Jean-Pierre M (63): A former lorry driver, Jean-Pierre was accused of using the same method to drug and rape his own wife. He also invited Dominique Pelicot to join in the abuse. Joan K (26): A soldier and the youngest man on trial, Joan raped Gisèle twice between 2019 and 2020. He claimed he did not understand consent at the time. Hugues M (39): A tiller and father of two, Hugues was accused of attempted rape in October 2019. He denied the charge, saying he did not realise Gisèle was drugged. Husamettin D (43): A father who cared for his disabled son, Husamettin denied raping Gisèle in June 2019, saying, “I’m not a rapist.” Fabien S (39): With 16 prior convictions, Fabien admitted to raping Gisèle in August 2018 but said he did not plan the crime. Mathieu D (53): A baker for 25 years, Mathieu raped Gisèle in October 2020 while under the influence of MDMA, thinking it was part of a consensual game. Andy R (37): An agricultural labourer and father of two, Andy raped Gisèle on New Year’s Eve 2018, believing her husband’s permission meant she had consented. Simone M (42): A builder and former soldier, Simone raped Gisèle in November 2018. He claimed she was pretending to sleep. Thierry Po (61): A refrigeration specialist and father of three, Thierry admitted to possessing child abuse images but denied raping Gisèle in August 2020. Jérôme V (46): A former grocery store worker and father of three, Jérôme admitted to knowing Gisèle had been drugged when he raped her. Thierry Pa (54): A former builder, Thierry raped Gisèle in 2020. He was identified while undergoing psychiatric treatment for depression. Adrien L (34): Already serving a 14-year sentence for other rapes, Adrien denied raping Gisèle in 2014, claiming he thought it was a consensual game. Jean T (52): A former roofer, Jean drove hours to rape Gisèle in 2018. He denied the charge, claiming he was drugged. Redouan E (55): A nurse, Redouan denied raping Gisèle in 2020, saying he was manipulated by Dominique. Patrick A (60): A former factory worker, Patrick admitted to raping Gisèle but said he participated reluctantly because he is gay. Didier S (68): A former lorry driver, Didier denied raping Gisèle in 2019, claiming she pretended to sleep. Karim S (40): A computer expert, Karim denied raping Gisèle in 2020. Vincent C (42): Convicted of domestic violence in 2021, Vincent is accused of raping Gisèle in 2019 and 2020. Jean-Marc L (74): The oldest defendant, Jean-Marc denied rape, saying he thought it was a “game.” Dominique D (45): Accused of raping Gisèle six times, Dominique claimed he did not intend to commit rape. Mohamed R (70): Previously jailed for raping his daughter, Mohamed raped Gisèle in 2019. Ahmed T (54): A plumber and former boxer, Ahmed denied rape, saying he would not choose “an older woman.” Redouane A (40): Convicted of domestic violence, Redouane raped Gisèle twice in 2019. Mahdi D (36): A transport worker, Mahdi denied raping Gisèle in 2018, claiming Dominique misled him. Cyril B (47): A lorry driver, Cyril denied rape despite video evidence. Cyprien C (43): A former lorry driver, Cyprien admitted to a sexual encounter but denied rape. Quentin H (34): A prison warden, Quentin raped Gisèle in 2019. Grégory S (31): A decorator with prior convictions, Grégory denied raping Gisèle in 2017. Florian R (32): A delivery driver, Florian denied raping Gisèle in 2019. Jean-Luc L (46): Jean-Luc admitted to raping Gisèle twice in 2018, believing her husband’s consent was sufficient. Patrice N (55): An electrician, Patrice claimed the assaults were part of a game. Abdelali D (47): Admitting to rape, Abdelali said Dominique assured him Gisèle “wouldn’t wake up.” Romain V (63): Romain raped Gisèle six times in 2019 and 2020. He denied wrongdoing, saying her husband’s consent sufficed. Cédric G (50): A software technician, Cédric admitted to both rape and possession of child abuse images. Hassan O (30): Tried in absentia, Hassan raped Gisèle in 2018. Also read: France mass rape trial: Dominique Pelicot found guilty, gets 20 years in jail Cendric V (44): A former soldier, Cendric was accused of raping Gisèle in 2016 and 2018. Ludovick B (39): A warehouse worker, Ludovick raped Gisèle in 2019. Omar D (36): Omar raped Gisèle in 2017 but denied the charge. Paul G (31): Paul raped Gisèle in 2016 after she was drugged at breakfast. Saifeddine G (37): A lorry driver, Saifeddine raped Gisèle in 2019. Charly A (30): Charly raped Gisèle six times between 2016 and 2020. Christian L (56): A firefighter, Christian denied rape despite video evidence. Nizar H (41): A builder, Nizar denied raping Gisèle in 2020. Nicolas F (42): A journalist, Nicolas denied raping Gisèle in 2018 and possessing child abuse images. Joseph C (69): Accused of sexual assault, Joseph denied wrongdoing during an encounter in 2020. Boris M (37): Boris denied raping Gisèle in 2020, saying he was misled by Dominique. Philippe L (62): A gardener, Philippe denied rape but admitted replying to Dominique’s online posts. (With inputs from agencies)

France mass rape trial: Who are the 51 men accused of raping Gisèle Pelicot?

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni&nbsp;on Wednesday (Dec 18) took a defensive stance on her friendship with billionaire Elon Musk and informed Italian lawmakers it will not influence her in areas in which the latter has economic interests.

“I can be a friend of Elon Musk and at the same time the head of the first Italian government that made a new law to regulate private activity in space,’’ said Meloni, while replying to questions in a customary parliamentary discussion held before the European Union summit scheduled for this week in Brussels.&nbsp;

Meloni took a jibe at her predecessors and said that previous Italian leaders “who thought they had a good relationship, even a friendship, with a foreign leader, they had to slavishly follow what the others did.”

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/elon-musk-surpasses-the-net-worth-of-bezos-and-zuckerberg-combined-785218">Elon Musk surpasses the net worth of Bezos and Zuckerberg combined</a>

She said that she shared good relationships “with many people” but “I don’t take orders from anyone and you should be happy about this."

<h2>Meloni and Musk's friendship</h2>

Meloni was frequently seen with Tesla and SpaceX billionaire Elon Musk after coming to power in 2022.&nbsp;

This year, Meloni’s government approved a framework which paved the way for foreign space companies to operate in the country. It is expected that this will generate $7.7 billion in investments by 2026.

Watch:&nbsp;Elon Musk's Philanthropic Donations Fail to Meet Minimum Threshold

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Amid this, the friendship between Meloni and Musk also garnered a lot of attention. Musk refuted reports of having any kind of romantic relationship with Meloni after a photo of them looking at each other went viral last September.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The two also attended a black-tie event in New York where Meloni was presented an award by Musk.

A year ago, Musk was also seen at an event organised for the ruling party's youth members in Italy.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Wednesday (Dec 18) took a defensive stance on her friendship with billionaire Elon Musk and informed Italian lawmakers it will not influence her in areas in which the latter has economic interests.

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Wednesday (Dec 18) took a defensive stance on her friendship with billionaire Elon Musk and informed Italian lawmakers it will not influence her in areas in which the latter has economic interests. “I can be a friend of Elon Musk and at the same time the head of the first Italian government that made a new law to regulate private activity in space,’’ said Meloni, while replying to questions in a customary parliamentary discussion held before the European Union summit scheduled for this week in Brussels. Meloni took a jibe at her predecessors and said that previous Italian leaders “who thought they had a good relationship, even a friendship, with a foreign leader, they had to slavishly follow what the others did.” Also Read: Elon Musk surpasses the net worth of Bezos and Zuckerberg combined She said that she shared good relationships “with many people” but “I don’t take orders from anyone and you should be happy about this." Meloni and Musk's friendship Meloni was frequently seen with Tesla and SpaceX billionaire Elon Musk after coming to power in 2022. This year, Meloni’s government approved a framework which paved the way for foreign space companies to operate in the country. It is expected that this will generate $7.7 billion in investments by 2026. Watch: Elon Musk's Philanthropic Donations Fail to Meet Minimum Threshold Amid this, the friendship between Meloni and Musk also garnered a lot of attention. Musk refuted reports of having any kind of romantic relationship with Meloni after a photo of them looking at each other went viral last September. The two also attended a black-tie event in New York where Meloni was presented an award by Musk. A year ago, Musk was also seen at an event organised for the ruling party's youth members in Italy. (With inputs from agencies)

Italy's Giorgia Meloni speaks on her friendship with Musk, says 'Don't take orders from anyone'

Russian President Vladimir Putin held his annual end-of-year press conference in Moscow on Thursday (December 19). Known for covering various issues during these marathon events, Putin spoke on the economy, and the war in Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin held his annual end-of-year press conference in Moscow on Thursday (December 19). Known for covering various issues during these marathon events, Putin spoke on the economy, and the war in Ukraine. Talking about US-president elect Donald Trump, Putin said that he hasn't spoken to him in over four years and is not sure when he will meet or speak with him next. "I am ready to meet him if he wants it," he said. Addressing a question about Syria's former president, Bashar al-Assad, Putin said that he hasn't "seen President Assad yet" - but plans to do so. "And I will have a conversation with him. We're adults. We understand," Putin said. Russia’s economy remains a focus Putin began by discussing the state of the Russian economy, saying, "Everything stands and falls with the economy." Despite inflation running at 9.3%, he claimed the Russian economy is performing well, pointing to growth in wages and real disposable income. Also read: US targets Pakistan’s missile programme, slaps sanctions on four entities However, he acknowledged challenges, with inflation being a major concern. "Inflation, however, is a worrying sign," he said, though he described the situation overall as "stable." He also mentioned that the unemployment rate was record-low at 2.3%. When asked how the economy continues to function amid challenges, Putin said, "When everything is stable, we are bored, but when something major happens, when bullets are flying around — we are scared." Putin on the war in Ukraine: “Victory is nearer” On the war in Ukraine, referred to by the Kremlin as a "special military operation", Putin was asked if victory was closer. In response, he had two individuals hold up a banner behind him, reportedly signed by a Russian marine brigade. He said that the situation in Ukraine is "changing drastically" and claimed Russian forces are "regaining territory" daily. "Warfare is complicated," he said, "but we are getting closer to solving our primary tasks of the special operation." Putin said he could not predict when his forces would regain full control of the western Kursk region, the area where Ukraine launched a shock offensive in August. "We will absolutely 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 said. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine's Zelensky Held Talks With NATO Chief Putin also addressed questions from the audience regarding the rebuilding of areas affected by fighting. Viewers asked when the region (Kursk) would be "liberated," when residents could return, and whether infrastructure and homes would be reconstructed. "It makes no military sense for Ukraine to enter the Kursk region," he said, adding, "For sure, we will get rid of them." However, he avoided giving a specific timeline, adding that announcing a date could pressure troops to take unnecessary risks. He told the audience that once the situation stabilises, all infrastructure, including schools, kindergartens, and roads, would be rebuilt. "There is no shadow of a doubt about it," Putin said, adding that citizens who lost homes during the fighting would receive compensation. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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France Mass Rape Trial: French Court Convicts Husband Dominique Pelicot

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!

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held talks with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg to discuss Ukraine's security and NATO support. The meeting highlights ongoing efforts to strengthen Ukraine's defense amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky & Rutte Held Talks On Bolstering Ukraine's Defences

The United States government has announced additional sanctions on four entities contributing to Pakistan’s Ballistic Missile Program. Watch this report for more details!

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Dominique Pelicot was found guilty by a French court of five judges on Thursday (Dec 19) of drugging and the mass rape of his then-wife Gisèle Pelicot.

The 72-year-old man has been handed the maximum sentence of&nbsp;20 years in prison for his charges. He had been accused of&nbsp;repeatedly raping and enlisting strangers to abuse his heavily sedated wife for over a decade.

Pelicot was also found guilty of the attempted aggravated rape of the wife of one of the co-accused, Jean Pierre Marechal, Cillia, and taking indecent images of his daughter, Caroline, and his daughters-in-law, Aurore and Celine.

As the verdict was announced,&nbsp;Dominique&nbsp;bent down and started&nbsp;crying in court.

Watch:&nbsp;France: Mass rape shocks nation, support pours in for survivor Gisele 
&nbsp;

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Apart from Dominique, all 50&nbsp;other men&nbsp;have also been&nbsp;found guilty of the charges against them, including some who pleaded not guilty. However, some of them were given shorter sentence periods than what was asked by the prosecutors.&nbsp;

For instance, Jacques C. has been awarded a 5-year suspended prison sentence, allowing him to walk free today itself. As the judges read out the judgment, some gasps could be heard inside the courtroom.&nbsp;

Cyrille D, Lionel R and Boris M were given just eight years behind bars, although the prosecutors had asked for a 12-year jail term. Another defendant, named Redouan A. was found guilty, but the judge reduced his sentence owing to his diagnosis as schizophrenic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjU8qqDzrOKAxWpTmwGHRSrFnMQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-mass-rape-case-accused-man-a-father-of-three-admits-to-sexual-assault-of-gisele-pelicot-760285" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/france-mass-rape-case-accused-man-a-father-of-three-admits-to-sexual-assault-of-gisele-pelicot-760285&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjU8qqDzrOKAxWpTmwGHRSrFnMQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">France mass rape case: Accused man, a father of three, admits to sexual assault of Gisele Pelicot</a>

At least five of the accused won't be sent to prison immediately owing to their bad health. “Several of the convicted men will not be taken to prison immediately because of their health. A few more days of freedom while we find a suitable prison,” Presiding Judge Roger Arata said.

On the other hand, some of the accused were given harsher sentences spanning over a decade. Romain V., who visited the Pelicot house six times, was awarded a 15-year prison sentence. Charly A., who also visited six times, was given 13 years.

(With inputs from agencies)

Dominique Pelicot was found guilty by a French court of five judges on Thursday (Dec 19) of drugging and the mass rape of his then-wife Gisèle Pelicot. The 72-year-old man has been handed the maximum sentence of 20 years in prison for his charges.

Dominique Pelicot was found guilty by a French court of five judges on Thursday (Dec 19) of drugging and the mass rape of his then-wife Gisèle Pelicot. The 72-year-old man has been handed the maximum sentence of 20 years in prison for his charges. He had been accused of repeatedly raping and enlisting strangers to abuse his heavily sedated wife for over a decade. Pelicot was also found guilty of the attempted aggravated rape of the wife of one of the co-accused, Jean Pierre Marechal, Cillia, and taking indecent images of his daughter, Caroline, and his daughters-in-law, Aurore and Celine. As the verdict was announced, Dominique bent down and started crying in court. Watch: France: Mass rape shocks nation, support pours in for survivor Gisele × Apart from Dominique, all 50 other men have also been found guilty of the charges against them, including some who pleaded not guilty. However, some of them were given shorter sentence periods than what was asked by the prosecutors. For instance, Jacques C. has been awarded a 5-year suspended prison sentence, allowing him to walk free today itself. As the judges read out the judgment, some gasps could be heard inside the courtroom. Cyrille D, Lionel R and Boris M were given just eight years behind bars, although the prosecutors had asked for a 12-year jail term. Another defendant, named Redouan A. was found guilty, but the judge reduced his sentence owing to his diagnosis as schizophrenic. Also read: France mass rape case: Accused man, a father of three, admits to sexual assault of Gisele Pelicot At least five of the accused won't be sent to prison immediately owing to their bad health. “Several of the convicted men will not be taken to prison immediately because of their health. A few more days of freedom while we find a suitable prison,” Presiding Judge Roger Arata said. On the other hand, some of the accused were given harsher sentences spanning over a decade. Romain V., who visited the Pelicot house six times, was awarded a 15-year prison sentence. Charly A., who also visited six times, was given 13 years. (With inputs from agencies)

France mass rape trial: Dominique Pelicot found guilty, sentenced to 20 years in prison

League Cup: Holder Liverpool progresses to semis after win at Southampton. Watch in for more details!

Liverpool Beat Southampton 2-1

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