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Buffalo, US
A Russian woman earlier accused of stowing away on a flight from New York to Paris was arrested again while on her way to Canada, authorities confirmed on Monday (Dec 16). Following her Paris flight fiasco, she was held in Philadelphia and was ordered not to leave the area except for court proceedings or meetings with her lawyers. However, she allegedly cut off her GPS-monitoring ankle device and boarded a bus to Canada.
The New York Times reported that the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Buffalo had arrested her again. The woman, named Svetlana Dali, is now scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday (Dec 17).
Last month, Dali grabbed global headlines after managing to enter a Delta fight without a boarding pass. She was spotted at John F Kennedy International Airport on November 26. Later, it was revealed that she entered the aircraft “through a special lane for airline employees masked by a large Air Europa flight crew."
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) said in a statement, “This is the only reported case of unauthorized access when over 18 million passengers were screened at TSA security checkpoints during the busiest Thanksgiving travel season ever. No one has ever fully breached the TSA security screening process."
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According to a criminal complaint filed in that case, Delta employees failed to stop the woman as they were busy “helping ticketed passengers board”.
As the plane took off, Delta employees quickly realised Dali was on the plane. The plane crew notified French law enforcement and the woman was arrested at Charles de Gaulle Airport on November 27. She was flown back to New York on December 4 and was taken into custody.
Watch: USA News: Trump Team Wants Iron Dome Against Drones
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She has been charged with obtaining transportation on an aircraft without consent or permission.
According to French authorities, Dali is a Russian national and has been living in the US on a green card.
(With inputs from agencies)

There were reports that the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Buffalo had arrested her again. The woman, named Svetlana Dali, is now scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday (Dec 17).



Buffalo, US A Russian woman earlier accused of stowing away on a flight from New York to Paris was arrested again while on her way to Canada, authorities confirmed on Monday (Dec 16). Following her Paris flight fiasco, she was held in Philadelphia and was ordered not to leave the area except for court proceedings or meetings with her lawyers. However, she allegedly cut off her GPS-monitoring ankle device and boarded a bus to Canada. The New York Times reported that the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Buffalo had arrested her again. The woman, named Svetlana Dali, is now scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday (Dec 17). Last month, Dali grabbed global headlines after managing to enter a Delta fight without a boarding pass. She was spotted at John F Kennedy International Airport on November 26. Later, it was revealed that she entered the aircraft “through a special lane for airline employees masked by a large Air Europa flight crew." The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) said in a statement, “This is the only reported case of unauthorized access when over 18 million passengers were screened at TSA security checkpoints during the busiest Thanksgiving travel season ever. No one has ever fully breached the TSA security screening process." Also read: US Space Force to help India build semiconductor plant According to a criminal complaint filed in that case, Delta employees failed to stop the woman as they were busy “helping ticketed passengers board”. As the plane took off, Delta employees quickly realised Dali was on the plane. The plane crew notified French law enforcement and the woman was arrested at Charles de Gaulle Airport on November 27. She was flown back to New York on December 4 and was taken into custody. Watch: USA News: Trump Team Wants Iron Dome Against Drones × She has been charged with obtaining transportation on an aircraft without consent or permission. According to French authorities, Dali is a Russian national and has been living in the US on a green card. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian woman earlier held for stowing away to Paris now detained sneaking into Canada

New York-based architect Rex Heuermann, who is the prime suspect in the Gilgo Beach murders, was on Tuesday (Dec 17) charged in the death of a seventh woman, American media reported.

New York-based architect Rex Heuermann, who is the prime suspect in the Gilgo Beach murders, was on Tuesday (Dec 17) charged in the death of a seventh woman, American media reported. Heuermann, 61, is charged with killing six other women whose remains were found on Long Island. He has pleaded not guilty to all the charges. A report by the news agency Associated Press said that Heuermann was charged in the death of 24-year-old Valerie Mack, whose remains were first found on Long Island in 2000. Heuermann pleads not guilty to killing Mack The Associated Press report said that Heuermann pleaded not guilty to killing Mack. Also read | Gilgo Beach serial killing suspect Rex Heuermann charged in more murders Some of Mack’s skeletal remains were initially discovered in Manorville, New York; authorities found more of her remains about 80 kilometres west, in Gilgo Beach, more than 10 years later. They were unidentified until genetic testing revealed her identity in 2020. In court papers, prosecutors said on Tuesday that human hair found with Mack's remains was sent for testing earlier this year and found to be a likely match with the genetic profile of Heuermann's daughter. His daughter has not been accused of any wrongdoing and would have been 3 or 4 years old when Mack died. The Gilgo Beach murders The investigation into the case dates back to 2010, when police searching for a missing woman found 10 sets of human remains in the scrub along a barrier island parkway. Over the years, investigators used DNA analysis and other clues to identify the victims, many of whom were sex workers. Heuermann, who lived with his wife and two children in Massapequa Park on Long Island and commuted to a Manhattan architecture office, was arrested on July 13 last year. At that point, he was charged with murdering Barthelemy, Waterman and Amber Lynn Costello. Earlier in 2024, he was charged in the deaths of three other women — Brainard-Barnes, Taylor and Sandra Costilla. (With inputs from agencies)

Rex Heuermann, the prime suspect in Gilgo Beach murders, is charged in death of seventh woman

In the US state of Wisconsin, a teenage student at a Madison private school opened fire on Monday (Dec 16), killing a student and a teacher. At least six others were wounded in the attack by the unidentified female student, who was later found dead.

<h2>What happened?</h2>

At Wisconsin's Abundant Life Christian School, about three hours into the school day, the shooter opened fire on her fellow students using a handgun.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/family-annihilation-16-year-old-in-new-mexico-allegedly-kills-four-turns-himself-in-784343">'Family annihilation': 16-year-old in New Mexico allegedly kills four, turns himself in</a>

The private institution has some 400 students from kindergarten through 12th grade and is located in Wisconsin's capital, Madison.

While Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes declined to share the name,&nbsp;age, or gender of the shooter, US media reports citing sources identified the individual&nbsp;as a 17-year-old girl.

If true, this makes it a rare attack. According to a Reuters report citing studies,&nbsp;only about three per cent&nbsp;of mass shootings are carried out by females.

Two were killed in the attack, and at least six others injured. Of the injured, two students, as per Police Chief Barnes, were wounded with life-threatening injuries.

The other four - a teacher and three students - are expected to survive; two have been released from hospital.

Following the attack, the suspected shooter turned the gun on herself and was found dead when police entered the building. The motive of the attack is not yet known.

Barnes said that the suspected shooter's family was cooperating with the police investigation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breaking-trump-does-not-have-presidential-immunity-in-hush-money-case-rules-judge-784503">Trump does not have presidential immunity in hush money case, rules judge</a>

<h2>"Enough is enough"</h2>

Underscoring the gravity of the US gun epidemic, the police chief told the press that some of the medical personnel responding to the Abundant Life Christian School shooting came directly from training for such an event.

"We have to come together to do everything we can to support our students, to prevent press conferences like these from happening again and again and again," he added.

US President Joe Biden also condemned the gun attack, describing it as "shocking and unconscionable" and said the tragic shooting underscored yet again the need for tighter gun laws in America.

"It is unacceptable that we are unable to protect our children from this scourge of gun violence. We cannot continue to accept it as normal," he said in a statement.

"We need Congress to act. Now."

(With inputs from agencies)

In the US state of Wisconsin, a teenage student at a Madison private school opened fire on Monday (Dec 16), killing a student and a teacher. At least six others were wounded in the attack by the unidentified female student, who was later found dead.

In the US state of Wisconsin, a teenage student at a Madison private school opened fire on Monday (Dec 16), killing a student and a teacher. At least six others were wounded in the attack by the unidentified female student, who was later found dead. What happened? At Wisconsin's Abundant Life Christian School, about three hours into the school day, the shooter opened fire on her fellow students using a handgun. Also read | 'Family annihilation': 16-year-old in New Mexico allegedly kills four, turns himself in The private institution has some 400 students from kindergarten through 12th grade and is located in Wisconsin's capital, Madison. While Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes declined to share the name, age, or gender of the shooter, US media reports citing sources identified the individual as a 17-year-old girl. If true, this makes it a rare attack. According to a Reuters report citing studies, only about three per cent of mass shootings are carried out by females. Two were killed in the attack, and at least six others injured. Of the injured, two students, as per Police Chief Barnes, were wounded with life-threatening injuries. The other four - a teacher and three students - are expected to survive; two have been released from hospital. Following the attack, the suspected shooter turned the gun on herself and was found dead when police entered the building. The motive of the attack is not yet known. Barnes said that the suspected shooter's family was cooperating with the police investigation. Also read | Trump does not have presidential immunity in hush money case, rules judge "Enough is enough" Underscoring the gravity of the US gun epidemic, the police chief told the press that some of the medical personnel responding to the Abundant Life Christian School shooting came directly from training for such an event. "We have to come together to do everything we can to support our students, to prevent press conferences like these from happening again and again and again," he added. US President Joe Biden also condemned the gun attack, describing it as "shocking and unconscionable" and said the tragic shooting underscored yet again the need for tighter gun laws in America. "It is unacceptable that we are unable to protect our children from this scourge of gun violence. We cannot continue to accept it as normal," he said in a statement. "We need Congress to act. Now." (With inputs from agencies)

Madison school shooting: Two killed, six injured in gun attack by female student

Wisconsin, United States
In the US state of Wisconsin, a teenage student at a Madison private school opened fire on Monday (Dec 16), killing a student and a teacher. At least six others were wounded in the attack by the unidentified female student, who was later found dead.
<h2>What happened?</h2>
At Wisconsin's Abundant Life Christian School, about three hours into the school day, the shooter opened fire on her fellow students using a handgun.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/family-annihilation-16-year-old-in-new-mexico-allegedly-kills-four-turns-himself-in-784343">'Family annihilation': 16-year-old in New Mexico allegedly kills four, turns himself in</a>
The private institution has some 400 students from kindergarten through 12th grade and is located in Wisconsin's capital, Madison.
While Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes declined to share the name, age, or gender of the shooter, US media reports citing sources identified the individual as a 17-year-old girl.
If true, this makes it a rare attack. According to a Reuters report citing studies, only about three per cent of mass shootings are carried out by females.
Two were killed in the attack, and at least six others injured. Of the injured, two students, as per Police Chief Barnes, were wounded with life-threatening injuries.
The other four - a teacher and three students - are expected to survive; two have been released from hospital.
Following the attack, the suspected shooter turned the gun on herself and was found dead when police entered the building. The motive of the attack is not yet known.
Barnes said that the suspected shooter's family was cooperating with the police investigation.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breaking-trump-does-not-have-presidential-immunity-in-hush-money-case-rules-judge-784503">Trump does not have presidential immunity in hush money case, rules judge</a>
<h2>"Enough is enough"</h2>
Underscoring the gravity of the US gun epidemic, the police chief told the press that some of the medical personnel responding to the Abundant Life Christian School shooting came directly from training for such an event.
"We have to come together to do everything we can to support our students, to prevent press conferences like these from happening again and again and again," he added.
US President Joe Biden also condemned the gun attack, describing it as "shocking and unconscionable" and said the tragic shooting underscored yet again the need for tighter gun laws in America.
"It is unacceptable that we are unable to protect our children from this scourge of gun violence. We cannot continue to accept it as normal," he said in a statement.
"We need Congress to act. Now."
(With inputs from agencies)

At Wisconsin's Abundant Life Christian School, about three hours into the school day, the shooter, identified as a 17-year-old girl, opened fire on her fellow students killing two



Wisconsin, United States In the US state of Wisconsin, a teenage student at a Madison private school opened fire on Monday (Dec 16), killing a student and a teacher. At least six others were wounded in the attack by the unidentified female student, who was later found dead. What happened? At Wisconsin's Abundant Life Christian School, about three hours into the school day, the shooter opened fire on her fellow students using a handgun. Also read | 'Family annihilation': 16-year-old in New Mexico allegedly kills four, turns himself in The private institution has some 400 students from kindergarten through 12th grade and is located in Wisconsin's capital, Madison. While Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes declined to share the name, age, or gender of the shooter, US media reports citing sources identified the individual as a 17-year-old girl. If true, this makes it a rare attack. According to a Reuters report citing studies, only about three per cent of mass shootings are carried out by females. Two were killed in the attack, and at least six others injured. Of the injured, two students, as per Police Chief Barnes, were wounded with life-threatening injuries. The other four - a teacher and three students - are expected to survive; two have been released from hospital. Following the attack, the suspected shooter turned the gun on herself and was found dead when police entered the building. The motive of the attack is not yet known. Barnes said that the suspected shooter's family was cooperating with the police investigation. Also read | Trump does not have presidential immunity in hush money case, rules judge "Enough is enough" Underscoring the gravity of the US gun epidemic, the police chief told the press that some of the medical personnel responding to the Abundant Life Christian School shooting came directly from training for such an event. "We have to come together to do everything we can to support our students, to prevent press conferences like these from happening again and again and again," he added. US President Joe Biden also condemned the gun attack, describing it as "shocking and unconscionable" and said the tragic shooting underscored yet again the need for tighter gun laws in America. "It is unacceptable that we are unable to protect our children from this scourge of gun violence. We cannot continue to accept it as normal," he said in a statement. "We need Congress to act. Now." (With inputs from agencies)

Anti-whaling activist Paul Watson was on Tuesday released from detention after Denmark refused a Japanese extradition request over a 2010 clash with whalers. Watson had been held in Greenland since July on a 2012 Japanese warrant accusing him of causing damage to a whaling ship and injuring a whaler.

Anti-whaling activist Paul Watson was on Tuesday released from detention after Denmark refused a Japanese extradition request over a 2010 clash with whalers. Watson had been held in Greenland since July on a 2012 Japanese warrant accusing him of causing damage to a whaling ship and injuring a whaler. "It's been five months and this is the first day of freedom, so I'm feeling great," Watson told AFP in a video call shortly after his release from the Danish autonomous territory. "My arrest has focused international attention on Japan's continuing illegal whaling operations and their intent to go back to the Southern Ocean," the 74-year-old said. "So, in fact, these five months have been an extension of the campaign." He added that his detention had also highlighted Denmark's "illegal killing of dolphins and whales in the Faroe Islands", Watson, who featured in the reality TV series "Whale Wars", founded Sea Shepherd and the Captain Paul Watson Foundation (CPWF) and is known for radical tactics including confrontations with whaling ships at sea. Watch | Intelligence Defined By How Your Brain Is Wired: Study Jean Tamalet, one of Watson's lawyers, told AFP that "the fight is not over." "We will now have to challenge the red notice and the Japanese arrest warrant, to ensure that Captain Paul Watson can once again travel the world in complete peace of mind, and never experience a similar episode again," Tamalet said. Watson also lamented being on the Interpol Red Notice list, saying it "is for serial killers, war criminals, and major drug traffickers." Ready for the worst Lamya Essemlali, head of Sea Shepherd France, told AFP that she "still can't believe it." Speaking alongside Watson following his release, said she "was ready for the worst, getting ready to fight, even to get him out of Japan if we had to." According to documents viewed by AFP, Denmark's decision was based on the duration of Watson's detention following his arrest and the time it would take to carry out a possible extradition. The ministry also considered "the fact that the acts for which extradition is sought are more than 14 years ago and the nature of the acts in general." Contacted by AFP, Japanese foreign ministry officials in charge of the issue were not immediately available for comment. Tokyo accuses Watson of injuring a Japanese crew member with a stink bomb intended to disrupt the whalers' activities during a Sea Shepherd clash with the Shonan Maru 2 vessel in 2010. Watson's lawyers have said they have video footage proving the crew member was not on deck when the stink bomb was thrown. "Japan tried to silence a man whose only crime was to denounce the illegality of the industrial massacre disguised as scientific research," one of his lawyers, Francois Zimeray, told AFP. Watson would not get a fair trial in Japan, where "there is a presumption of guilt," he told AFP. "Prosecutors are proud to announce that they have a 99.6 per cent conviction rate." Not a comment on Japan In September, Watson's lawyers contacted the UN special rapporteur on environmental defenders, claiming that he could be "subjected to inhumane treatment" in Japanese prisons. Also read | 'Madness must be stopped', Zelensky claims Russian troops burning faces of North Korean soldiers killed in war Danish Minister of Justice Peter Hummelgaard stressed that the decision was based on the specifics of the case and "does not mean that Denmark shares the concerns that have been raised in certain circles about the Japanese legal system." "Japan is a democratic state that respects fundamental human rights. There has also been a good and close dialogue with the Japanese authorities," Hummelgaard said. In a rare public comment on the case, Japan's Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya has said that the extradition request was "an issue of law enforcement at sea rather than a whaling issue". Watson wants to return to France, where he has been living since July 2023 and where his two young children attend school. He requested French citizenship in October. Watson's legal woes have attracted support from the public and activists, including prominent British conservationist Jane Goodall, who has urged French President Emmanuel Macron to grant him political asylum. 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.

Whaling activist Watson freed after Denmark rejects extradition request

Palestinian militant group Hamas said on Tuesday (Dec 17) that talks in Qatar's Doha aimed at a truce and hostage-prisoner exchange in Gaza were "serious and positive.

Palestinian militant group Hamas said on Tuesday (Dec 17) that talks in Qatar's Doha aimed at a truce and hostage-prisoner exchange in Gaza were "serious and positive." In a statement, Hamas said, "Hamas affirms that, in light of the serious and positive discussions taking place today in Doha under the auspices of our Qatari and Egyptian brothers, reaching an agreement for a ceasefire and a prisoner exchange is possible if the occupation (Israel) ceases to impose new conditions." Israel and Hamas have been fighting a war in the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023. Israeli delegation arrives in Doha for talks Hamas' remarks came a day after an Israeli delegation arrived in Doha for talks aimed at bridging gaps (with Hamas). Also read | Hamas concerned Trump would allow Israel to resume Gaza war after first phase of ceasefire: Report Since the Gaza war began, Qatar, along with the United States (US) and Egypt, has been working for months to secure a truce and hostage release deal. But apart from a one-week pause in fighting late last year, successive negotiations have failed to stop the war. The ceasefire in late November last year saw scores of Hamas-held hostages being released in exchange for Palestinians held in Israeli prisons. Will a ceasefire happen again? According to a report by the news agency AFP, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz indicated on Monday that negotiators from his country had "not been this close to an agreement" for the release of hostages in Gaza since the truce in November last year. Meanwhile, a senior Hamas official in Doha told AFP that negotiations for the truce deal were "closer than ever before" but warned that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could still "disrupt the agreement as he has done every time before." Families of hostages call for immediate ceasefire On Tuesday, families of Israeli hostages took to the streets of Tel Aviv to call for an immediate ceasefire deal that would see the release of all 100 hostages in Gaza amid both Israel and Hamas being close to an agreement. Also watch | Trump warns Hamas to release hostages soon Carrying large posters of their loved ones and chanting slogans, the protesters marched on the Tel Aviv headquarters of Prime Minister Netanyahu's Likud party, where they demonstrated outside, a report by the news agency Reuters said. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Hamas says truce talks in Doha are 'serious and positive'

Former US President Donald Trump has once again warned Hamas to release hostages, stating that failure to do so will result in severe consequences. His statement comes amid ongoing tensions and calls for the safe return of captives held by the militant group.

US News: Donald Trump Warns Hamas To Release Hostages Soon

A severe cold wave has swept across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, bringing bone-chilling temperatures that are impacting daily life and causing disruptions in the region. The extreme cold has raised concerns about the safety of residents and infrastructure.

India: Bone-Chilling Cold Wave Engulfs Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh

A severe cold wave has swept across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, bringing bone-chilling temperatures that are impacting daily life and causing disruptions in the region. The extreme cold has raised concerns about the safety of residents and infrastructure.



In his upcoming biography, Pop Francis claimed that he escaped two attempts on his life during his visit to Iran in 2021. The book titled "Hope" will be released next month.&nbsp;

Russian general Igor Kirillov was killed on Tuesday (Dec 17). He was assassinated in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow. He was&nbsp;the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops.&nbsp;

In news from other parts of the world, British-Pakistani girl Sara Sharif's father and her stepmother have been sentenced to life for murdering the 10-year-old. In 2023, her body was discovered in Surrey after she was physically assaulted by her father, stepmother, and uncle.&nbsp;

Click on the links to read more&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-says-he-escaped-two-attempts-on-his-life-during-2021-iraq-visit-784750https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-says-he-escaped-two-attempts-on-his-life-during-2021-iraq-visit-784750">Pope Francis says he escaped two attempts on his life during 2021 Iraq visit</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/17/471710-untitled-2.png?imwidth=400" />

Pope Francis has said that he escaped two attempts on his life during his historic visit to Iraq in 2021. He made this claim in his upcoming autobiography, which will be released next month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-was-igor-kirillov-russias-chemical-weapons-chief-and-a-mouthpiece-for-exposing-western-crimes-784708">Who was Igor Kirillov? Russia's chemical weapons chief</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/17/471683-untitled-design-8.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Russian general Igor Kirillov, who was killed in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow, was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops.&nbsp;Lieutenant General Kirillov was assassinated by Ukraine's SBU intelligence service on Tuesday (Dec 17), according to a report by Reuters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sara-sharif-murder-sadist-father-and-stepmother-imprisoned-for-life-for-brutally-killing-her-784733">Sara Sharif murder: 'Sadist' father and stepmother imprisoned for life</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/17/471702-untitled-design-9.jpg?imwidth=400" />

British-Pakistani girl Sara Sharif's father, Urfan Sharif, and stepmother Beinash Batool have been jailed for life for murdering their 10-year-old daughter.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-changed-the-constitution-77-times-in-55-years-says-amit-shah-in-parliament-784738">Amit Shah in Parliament: Congress changed Constitution 77 times in 55 years</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/17/471719-untitled-design-20.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday during a debate marking 75 years since the adoption of the Constitution and used the occasion to rip into the Congress party and its leadership over the imposition of emergency and for making amendments in the statute for 'personal' gains.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-says-resistance-not-over-after-assad-ouster-784754">Iran's Khamenei says 'resistance' not over after Assad ouster</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/17/471715-00036pz8ax.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Iran's supreme leader said Tuesday that Israel and the United States were "completely wrong" to imagine the Tehran-backed axis of&nbsp;resistance&nbsp;had collapsed with the&nbsp;ouster&nbsp;of Syria's longtime strongman.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-sending-ps35-million-aid-to-help-ukrainians-survive-winter-784758">UK sending £35 million aid to help Ukrainians survive winter</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/17/471718-wion-news-latest-6.png?imwidth=400" />

The British government Tuesday announced £35&nbsp;million ($44 million) in&nbsp;aid&nbsp;to repair Ukraine's energy grid battered by Russian strikes and&nbsp;help&nbsp;Ukrainians&nbsp;confront freezing&nbsp;winter&nbsp;weather.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-executes-ex-official-who-was-convicted-in-nations-largest-ever-corruption-case-784698">China executes ex-official convicted in nation's largest-ever corruption case</a>

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China on Tuesday (Dec 17) executed a former official who was convicted in the country's largest-ever corruption case. According to a report by the state-run Xinhua news agency, the death sentence was awarded to Li Jianping, a former official in the north Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-unaware-of-everything-happening-says-hannah-kobayashi-after-her-return-784712">Missing Hawaii woman case: Was unaware of media frenzy, says Hannah Kobayashi after her return</a>

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Hannah Kobayashi, the missing Hawaii woman found recently, said she was "unaware of everything" that happened in the media and her family. After returning to the United States from Mexico, Hannah said in a statement handed on Tuesday (Dec 17) by her aunt that she is "still processing it all" and&nbsp;urged people to respect her family during “this challenging time".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-gabba-test-australia-vs-india-weather-report-of-final-day-in-brisbane-784701">BGT, Gabba Test, Australia vs India: Weather report of final day in Brisbane</a>

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Weather conditions and 98 overs on the final day will decide the fate of the third BGT Test between Australia and India at the Gabba. With rain playing spoilsport for the fourth&nbsp;straight day&nbsp;in Brisbane, overcast conditions are predicted for the fifth day too.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pushpa-2-stampede-case-telangana-police-likely-to-challenge-allu-arjuns-bail-784642">Pushpa 2 stampede case: Telangana police likely to challenge Allu Arjun’s bail</a>

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Actor Allu Arjun’s bail might get cut short soon as Telangana police are preparing to challenge it and take the matter to the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

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In his upcoming biography, Pop Francis claimed that he escaped two attempts on his life during his visit to Iran in 2021. The book titled "Hope" will be released next month.

In his upcoming biography, Pop Francis claimed that he escaped two attempts on his life during his visit to Iran in 2021. The book titled "Hope" will be released next month. Russian general Igor Kirillov was killed on Tuesday (Dec 17). He was assassinated in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow. He was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops. In news from other parts of the world, British-Pakistani girl Sara Sharif's father and her stepmother have been sentenced to life for murdering the 10-year-old. In 2023, her body was discovered in Surrey after she was physically assaulted by her father, stepmother, and uncle. Click on the links to read more Pope Francis says he escaped two attempts on his life during 2021 Iraq visit Pope Francis has said that he escaped two attempts on his life during his historic visit to Iraq in 2021. He made this claim in his upcoming autobiography, which will be released next month. Who was Igor Kirillov? Russia's chemical weapons chief Russian general Igor Kirillov, who was killed in an electric scooter explosion in Moscow, was the head of Russia's Radiation, Chemical and Biological Protection troops. Lieutenant General Kirillov was assassinated by Ukraine's SBU intelligence service on Tuesday (Dec 17), according to a report by Reuters. Sara Sharif murder: 'Sadist' father and stepmother imprisoned for life British-Pakistani girl Sara Sharif's father, Urfan Sharif, and stepmother Beinash Batool have been jailed for life for murdering their 10-year-old daughter. Amit Shah in Parliament: Congress changed Constitution 77 times in 55 years Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday during a debate marking 75 years since the adoption of the Constitution and used the occasion to rip into the Congress party and its leadership over the imposition of emergency and for making amendments in the statute for 'personal' gains. Iran's Khamenei says 'resistance' not over after Assad ouster Iran's supreme leader said Tuesday that Israel and the United States were "completely wrong" to imagine the Tehran-backed axis of resistance had collapsed with the ouster of Syria's longtime strongman. UK sending £35 million aid to help Ukrainians survive winter The British government Tuesday announced £35 million ($44 million) in aid to repair Ukraine's energy grid battered by Russian strikes and help Ukrainians confront freezing winter weather. China executes ex-official convicted in nation's largest-ever corruption case China on Tuesday (Dec 17) executed a former official who was convicted in the country's largest-ever corruption case. According to a report by the state-run Xinhua news agency, the death sentence was awarded to Li Jianping, a former official in the north Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. Missing Hawaii woman case: Was unaware of media frenzy, says Hannah Kobayashi after her return Hannah Kobayashi, the missing Hawaii woman found recently, said she was "unaware of everything" that happened in the media and her family. After returning to the United States from Mexico, Hannah said in a statement handed on Tuesday (Dec 17) by her aunt that she is "still processing it all" and urged people to respect her family during “this challenging time". BGT, Gabba Test, Australia vs India: Weather report of final day in Brisbane Weather conditions and 98 overs on the final day will decide the fate of the third BGT Test between Australia and India at the Gabba. With rain playing spoilsport for the fourth straight day in Brisbane, overcast conditions are predicted for the fifth day too. Pushpa 2 stampede case: Telangana police likely to challenge Allu Arjun’s bail Actor Allu Arjun’s bail might get cut short soon as Telangana police are preparing to challenge it and take the matter to the Supreme Court.

Top 10 world news: Pope almost assassinated in 2021; Ukraine killed Russian general, and more

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 17) claimed that Russian troops have burnt the faces of deceased North Korean soldiers to conceal their identity and hide their presence.&nbsp;

Zelensky shared a 31-second video, showing a group of people burning what appears to be a corpse on a snow-covered slope.&nbsp;

"Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse," Zelensky said in a post on X.&nbsp;

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Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse. 
 
Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions, but also tries to conceal losses of these people. 
 
They tried to hide the presence of… <a href="https://t.co/KYyGF1rxP8">pic.twitter.com/KYyGF1rxP8</a>
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1868777841917059313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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He further said that Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions but also "tries to conceal losses of these people".

The Ukrainian president stressed that the Russians attempted to erase any video evidence of their presence.&nbsp;

"Now, after first combats with our warriors, Russians are trying…to literally burn the faces of North Korean soldiers killed in battle," he said, adding, "This is a demonstration of disrespect, which is currently prevalent in Russia, a disrespect to everything human."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-claims-killing-or-injuring-30-north-korean-soldiers-in-kursk-region-784464">Also read:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region</a>

Zelensky said that there is not a single reason for North Koreans to fight and die for Putin.&nbsp;

"This madness must be stopped—stopped by a reliable and durable peace, as well as Russia’s accountability for this cynical war," he emphasised.&nbsp;

Earlier on Monday, Zelensky claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This was the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang had sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Trump To Talk To Zelensky, Putin To End War

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Prior to that, he said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them."

Washington and Seoul have also accused Pyongyang of sending over 10,000 troops to support Moscow following the signing of a significant defence agreement between Russia and North Korea earlier this year.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 17) claimed that Russian troops have burnt the faces of deceased North Korean soldiers to conceal their identity and hide their presence.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 17) claimed that Russian troops have burnt the faces of deceased North Korean soldiers to conceal their identity and hide their presence. Zelensky shared a 31-second video, showing a group of people burning what appears to be a corpse on a snow-covered slope. "Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse," Zelensky said in a post on X. Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse. Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions, but also tries to conceal losses of these people. They tried to hide the presence of… pic.twitter.com/KYyGF1rxP8 — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) December 16, 2024 × He further said that Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions but also "tries to conceal losses of these people". The Ukrainian president stressed that the Russians attempted to erase any video evidence of their presence. "Now, after first combats with our warriors, Russians are trying…to literally burn the faces of North Korean soldiers killed in battle," he said, adding, "This is a demonstration of disrespect, which is currently prevalent in Russia, a disrespect to everything human." Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region Zelensky said that there is not a single reason for North Koreans to fight and die for Putin. "This madness must be stopped—stopped by a reliable and durable peace, as well as Russia’s accountability for this cynical war," he emphasised. Earlier on Monday, Zelensky claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This was the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang had sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Trump To Talk To Zelensky, Putin To End War × Prior to that, he said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them." Washington and Seoul have also accused Pyongyang of sending over 10,000 troops to support Moscow following the signing of a significant defence agreement between Russia and North Korea earlier this year. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

'Madness must be stopped', Zelensky claims Russian troops burning faces of North Korean soldiers killed in war

The dismal quality of housing across Mayotte has compounded the devastating impact of Cyclone Chido on the poverty-stricken French Indian Ocean territory where hundreds, or maybe thousands, are feared dead.

The dismal quality of housing across Mayotte has compounded the devastating impact of Cyclone Chido on the poverty-stricken French Indian Ocean territory where hundreds, or maybe thousands, are feared dead. Before the storm hit, around a third of the island's population was living in iron-sheeted huts that never stood a chance against the powerful cyclone. By the time it was gone, all of Mayotte's shantytowns were flattened, burying lives—and livelihoods—beneath them. "We fear there will be a considerable number of deaths," a French government official told AFP. "Several hundred, or maybe several thousand." Mayotte is the poorest part of France, of which it is an integral part. Recent official data on the state of housing in Mayotte are hard to come by, but 2017 data published by the National Statistics Institute said 40 per cent of the island's homes are built with metal sheets, and around a third have no access to running water. Also Read: Cyclone Chido devastates France's Mayotte: Death toll could reach thousands Flimsy "They're made of wood, corrugated iron, and situated on hills, on beaten earth," said Florent Vallee, who runs the French Red Cross branch's emergency operations. "You can easily imagine the wind barreling into them and the rain creating mudslides." Over the decades, French authorities have tried to improve housing conditions for the island's population which numbers 320,000 according to official data but is much greater because of an influx of undocumented migrants who do not show up in government statistics. As recently as the late 1970s, modern building materials were virtually unknown in Mayotte, said Megane Aussedat, a sociologist and expert on informal housing on the island. Despite government programmes to replace precarious shelters with solid housing, the number of available homes is still inadequate compared to the size of the population and the migration influx. They are also out of reach for many people in Mayotte, where the median monthly income is 260 euros ($273), compared with around 2,600 euros pretax on the French mainland. Subsidised housing projects have also been slow to materialise, said Aussedat. However, since 2018, the authorities have been allowed to raze substandard housing, provided they immediately offered inhabitants new homes. Such clearing operations, involving massive police contingents, are sometimes thought to have the secondary objective of flushing out undocumented migrants, but Aussedat observed that telling illegals from legal can be a challenge. "There is almost no family in Mayotte," she said, "where everybody's status is either documented or undocumented." Comoros influx Mayotte's immigration issue is almost entirely due to an influx from the Comoros, an archipelago whose closest shores are just 70 kilometers (44 miles) from Mayotte, and that declared independence in the 1970s while Mayotte opted to remain French. As poor as Mayotte is by French standards, the Comoros are even poorer, tempting many there into a perilous journey across the water in search of a better life in Mayotte. They often end up living in makeshift areas consisting mostly of so-called "bangas"—small" houses made of cloth and thatch. When Chido hit, many refused to leave their homes, taking their chances with the cyclone rather than face the danger of their homes being looted or being picked up by the authorities. Vallee said emergency services had rescued "entire families, and also a lot of children who were left alone." Sanitary conditions, already precarious, have worsened since, mostly because of patchy access to clean water that could prompt another cholera outbreak like the one in the spring of 2024 that killed seven people, said Jean-Francois Coty, president of the Medecins du Monde NGO. 'Brakes on healthcare access' Undocumented migrants' "fear of moving is putting the brakes on healthcare access," he said. A French government scheme allowing undocumented people access to state healthcare is not available in Mayotte. Coty said he hoped that French officials would pause forced deportations so immigrants can seek help without fear of expulsion. "This is a time for humanitarian aid, not for a crackdown," he said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

How ramshackle housing left Mayotte exposed to Cyclone Chido's fury

Donald Trump's legal team on Tuesday (Dec 3) asked a US court to dismiss his criminal fraud conviction in the hush money case involving a porn star, using the same argument President Joe Biden used to pardon his son, Hunter: unfair targeting due to political motives.

Hunter Biden was pardoned by the US president on December 1 despite his conviction on tax evasion and firearms charges. While issuing the full and unconditional pardon, Biden said Hunter was "selectively, and unfairly, prosecuted" by the Department of Justice (DOJ) "only because he is my son."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slams-joe-biden-for-pardoning-son-hunter-calls-it-abuse-and-miscarriage-of-justice-780821">Trump slams Joe Biden for pardoning son Hunter, calls it 'abuse and miscarriage of Justice'</a>

<h2>Trump team's argument</h2>

In a 69-page filing, Trump's legal team drew comparisons between their case and Biden's reasoning.&nbsp;

Presenting their case to presiding judge Juan Merchan, they claimed that the DOJ similarly targeted Trump with politically motivated investigations.

Trump's team in its filing said that Biden's "comments amounted to an extraordinary condemnation of President Biden's own DOJ," and that "This is the same DOJ that coordinated and oversaw the politically-motivated, election-interference witch hunts targeting President Trump."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-pick-for-dea-chief-withdraws-from-consideration-second-pick-to-turn-down-nomination-781290">Trump's pick for DEA chief withdraws from consideration; second pick to turn down nomination</a>

It also once again invoked presidential immunity — that the Supreme Court said only extends to 'official acts' while president — and the Presidential Transition Act, among other laws, to "immediately dismiss the Indictment and vacate the jury's verdicts."

Trump was convicted in May on 34 counts of falsifying business records, related to payments of $130,000 made to porn star Stormy Daniels to keep quiet about an alleged affair during his 2016 election campaign. Trump has repeatedly denied any affair.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Judge Merchan, on November 22, delayed sentencing because of Trump's victory in the presidential election.

With Trump set to take office again in January, now the judge has to decide to either dismiss the case entirely or suspend the legal consequences until the end of Trump's second term.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg has suggested delaying further legal actions, given the "unprecedented circumstances" situation caused by Trump's election win.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump's legal team on Tuesday (Dec 3) asked a US court to dismiss his criminal fraud conviction in the hush money case involving a porn star, using the same argument President Joe Biden used to pardon his son, Hunter: unfair targeting due to political motives.

Donald Trump's legal team on Tuesday (Dec 3) asked a US court to dismiss his criminal fraud conviction in the hush money case involving a porn star, using the same argument President Joe Biden used to pardon his son, Hunter: unfair targeting due to political motives. Hunter Biden was pardoned by the US president on December 1 despite his conviction on tax evasion and firearms charges. While issuing the full and unconditional pardon, Biden said Hunter was "selectively, and unfairly, prosecuted" by the Department of Justice (DOJ) "only because he is my son." Also read | Trump slams Joe Biden for pardoning son Hunter, calls it 'abuse and miscarriage of Justice' Trump team's argument In a 69-page filing, Trump's legal team drew comparisons between their case and Biden's reasoning. Presenting their case to presiding judge Juan Merchan, they claimed that the DOJ similarly targeted Trump with politically motivated investigations. Trump's team in its filing said that Biden's "comments amounted to an extraordinary condemnation of President Biden's own DOJ," and that "This is the same DOJ that coordinated and oversaw the politically-motivated, election-interference witch hunts targeting President Trump." Also read | Trump's pick for DEA chief withdraws from consideration; second pick to turn down nomination It also once again invoked presidential immunity — that the Supreme Court said only extends to 'official acts' while president — and the Presidential Transition Act, among other laws, to "immediately dismiss the Indictment and vacate the jury's verdicts." Trump was convicted in May on 34 counts of falsifying business records, related to payments of $130,000 made to porn star Stormy Daniels to keep quiet about an alleged affair during his 2016 election campaign. Trump has repeatedly denied any affair. Judge Merchan, on November 22, delayed sentencing because of Trump's victory in the presidential election. With Trump set to take office again in January, now the judge has to decide to either dismiss the case entirely or suspend the legal consequences until the end of Trump's second term. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg has suggested delaying further legal actions, given the "unprecedented circumstances" situation caused by Trump's election win. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump seeks dismissal of criminal conviction in hush money case, cites Hunter Biden's pardon

The British government Tuesday announced £35 million ($44 million) in aid to repair Ukraine's energy grid battered by Russian strikes and help Ukrainians confront freezing winter weather.

The British government Tuesday announced £35 million ($44 million) in aid to repair Ukraine's energy grid battered by Russian strikes and help Ukrainians confront freezing winter weather. Some £20 million will be allocated to try to restore the power network and protect Ukrainian infrastructure, a UK government statement said. A further £15 million will be made available to "provide lifesaving humanitarian support to the most in need as temperatures in Ukraine plummet". Russia launched one of its largest missile attacks ever in the early hours of Friday, once again targeting war-torn Ukraine's energy grid. Watch | Polio Vaccination Team Attacked In Pakistan, At least One Policeman Killed The attack "severely damaged" some Ukrainian power plants, the Ukrainian DTEK power provider said and knocked out electricity to thousands of people. "As Putin's oil revenues continue to fuel the fires of his illegal war, Ukrainian families are enduring cold, dark nights, often without heating, light or electricity, targeted by Russia's relentless missile attacks," said British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. "But these systematic attacks on Ukraine's infrastructure will not grind Ukraine down. It will only deepen our resolve and support," he added. Russia has conducted at least 11 large-scale strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure since the beginning of the year, Kyiv says, with Ukrainians now enduring their third winter at war. The UK government also sanctioned energy companies 2Rivers DMCC and 2Rivers PTE LTD, which are "key lynchpins in enabling the trading" of Russian oil, the government said. Starmer further announced additional crackdowns on Moscow's so-called "shadow fleet" of oil tankers which bypass Western sanctions. The latest round of sanctions targets 20 ships. Also read | Europe's destruction, contact with aliens: Here's what Baba Vanga predicted for 2025 The UK government said it has now sanctioned more than 100 ships for transporting Russian energy, leaving tankers "idling uselessly outside ports" and "costing Putin and his war efforts millions in wasted funds". EU countries last week agreed to blacklist around 50 more oil tankers in their 15th package of sanctions since Moscow's 2022 full-scale invasion. The UK has also agreed to work with Denmark, Sweden, Poland, Finland, and Estonia to request proof of insurance from suspected shadow vessels in the Baltic and North Sea. 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.

UK sending £35 million aid to help Ukrainians survive winter

Donald Trump does not have presidential immunity in the hush money case involving former porn performer Stormy Daniels, a US judge has ruled.

Trump was convicted in May on 34 counts of falsifying business records, related to payments of $130,000 made to porn star Stormy Daniels to keep quiet about an alleged affair during his 2016 election campaign. Trump has repeatedly denied any affair.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Judge Juan Merchan ruled on Monday (Dec 16)&nbsp;that the US president-elect's conviction in the hush money case should not be dismissed on account of the Supreme Court's presidential immunity ruling.

Squashing Trump's bid to have the conviction thrown out, the judge said the&nbsp;Supreme Court decision granting presidents sweeping immunity for official acts did not apply in this case as testimony at the trial related "entirely to unofficial conduct" and thus "entitled" the Republican "to no immunity protections."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slams-biden-government-over-mystery-drone-sightings-says-shoot-them-down-783863">Trump slams Biden government over mystery drone sightings, says 'shoot them down'</a>

<h2>Historic decision</h2>

Judge Juan Merchan's decision is nothing short of historic as it raises the prospect that Donald Trump could become the first US President to enter the White House with a felony conviction to his name, pending appeal against the jury's verdict.

Even as Trump's legal team contended that the Supreme Court's landmark July ruling on presidential immunity applies here, prosecutors, according to US media reports, argued that their bid to have the case thrown out was "well beyond" what was needed to protect the presidency.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pledges-to-scrap-daylight-saving-time-citing-inconvenience-and-costs-783860">Trump pledges to scrap daylight saving time, citing inconvenience and costs</a>

<h2>Trump legal team's argument</h2>

On December 3, shortly after President Joe Biden pardoned his son&nbsp;Hunter Biden saying he was "selectively, and unfairly, prosecuted" by the Department of Justice (DOJ) "only because he is my son," the Trump team in a 69-page filing drew comparisons between their case and Biden's reasoning.&nbsp;

They claimed that the DOJ similarly targeted Trump with politically motivated investigations. They also once again invoked presidential immunity — that the Supreme Court said only extends to 'official acts' while president — and the Presidential Transition Act, among other laws, to "immediately dismiss the Indictment and vacate the jury's verdicts."

(With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump does not have presidential immunity in the hush money case involving former porn performer Stormy Daniels, a US judge has ruled. Trump was convicted in May on 34 counts of falsifying business records, related to payments of $130,000 made to porn star Stormy Daniels to keep quiet about an alleged affair during his 2016 election campaign.

Donald Trump does not have presidential immunity in the hush money case involving former porn performer Stormy Daniels, a US judge has ruled. Trump was convicted in May on 34 counts of falsifying business records, related to payments of $130,000 made to porn star Stormy Daniels to keep quiet about an alleged affair during his 2016 election campaign. Trump has repeatedly denied any affair. Judge Juan Merchan ruled on Monday (Dec 16) that the US president-elect's conviction in the hush money case should not be dismissed on account of the Supreme Court's presidential immunity ruling. Squashing Trump's bid to have the conviction thrown out, the judge said the Supreme Court decision granting presidents sweeping immunity for official acts did not apply in this case as testimony at the trial related "entirely to unofficial conduct" and thus "entitled" the Republican "to no immunity protections." Also read | Trump slams Biden government over mystery drone sightings, says 'shoot them down' Historic decision Judge Juan Merchan's decision is nothing short of historic as it raises the prospect that Donald Trump could become the first US President to enter the White House with a felony conviction to his name, pending appeal against the jury's verdict. Even as Trump's legal team contended that the Supreme Court's landmark July ruling on presidential immunity applies here, prosecutors, according to US media reports, argued that their bid to have the case thrown out was "well beyond" what was needed to protect the presidency. Also read | Trump pledges to scrap daylight saving time, citing inconvenience and costs Trump legal team's argument On December 3, shortly after President Joe Biden pardoned his son Hunter Biden saying he was "selectively, and unfairly, prosecuted" by the Department of Justice (DOJ) "only because he is my son," the Trump team in a 69-page filing drew comparisons between their case and Biden's reasoning. They claimed that the DOJ similarly targeted Trump with politically motivated investigations. They also once again invoked presidential immunity — that the Supreme Court said only extends to 'official acts' while president — and the Presidential Transition Act, among other laws, to "immediately dismiss the Indictment and vacate the jury's verdicts." (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump does not have presidential immunity in hush money case, rules judge

New York, United States
Donald Trump does not have presidential immunity in the hush money case involving former porn performer Stormy Daniels, a US judge has ruled.
Trump was convicted in May on 34 counts of falsifying business records, related to payments of $130,000 made to porn star Stormy Daniels to keep quiet about an alleged affair during his 2016 election campaign. Trump has repeatedly denied any affair.  
Judge Juan Merchan ruled on Monday (Dec 16) that the US president-elect's conviction in the hush money case should not be dismissed on account of the Supreme Court's presidential immunity ruling.
Squashing Trump's bid to have the conviction thrown out, the judge said the Supreme Court decision granting presidents sweeping immunity for official acts did not apply in this case as testimony at the trial related "entirely to unofficial conduct" and thus "entitled" the Republican "to no immunity protections."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slams-biden-government-over-mystery-drone-sightings-says-shoot-them-down-783863">Trump slams Biden government over mystery drone sightings, says 'shoot them down'</a>
<h2>Historic decision</h2>
Judge Juan Merchan's decision is nothing short of historic as it raises the prospect that Donald Trump could become the first US President to enter the White House with a felony conviction to his name, pending appeal against the jury's verdict.
Even as Trump's legal team contended that the Supreme Court's landmark July ruling on presidential immunity applies here, prosecutors, according to US media reports, argued that their bid to have the case thrown out was "well beyond" what was needed to protect the presidency.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pledges-to-scrap-daylight-saving-time-citing-inconvenience-and-costs-783860">Trump pledges to scrap daylight saving time, citing inconvenience and costs</a>
<h2>Trump legal team's argument</h2>
On December 3, shortly after President Joe Biden pardoned his son Hunter Biden saying he was "selectively, and unfairly, prosecuted" by the Department of Justice (DOJ) "only because he is my son," the Trump team in a 69-page filing drew comparisons between their case and Biden's reasoning. 
They claimed that the DOJ similarly targeted Trump with politically motivated investigations. They also once again invoked presidential immunity — that the Supreme Court said only extends to 'official acts' while president — and the Presidential Transition Act, among other laws, to "immediately dismiss the Indictment and vacate the jury's verdicts."
(With inputs from agencies)

Judge Juan Merchan said in the ruling that US President-elect Donald Trump's conviction in the hush money case involving porn star Stormy Daniels should not be dismissed on account of the Supreme Court's presidential immunity ruling



New York, United States Donald Trump does not have presidential immunity in the hush money case involving former porn performer Stormy Daniels, a US judge has ruled. Trump was convicted in May on 34 counts of falsifying business records, related to payments of $130,000 made to porn star Stormy Daniels to keep quiet about an alleged affair during his 2016 election campaign. Trump has repeatedly denied any affair. Judge Juan Merchan ruled on Monday (Dec 16) that the US president-elect's conviction in the hush money case should not be dismissed on account of the Supreme Court's presidential immunity ruling. Squashing Trump's bid to have the conviction thrown out, the judge said the Supreme Court decision granting presidents sweeping immunity for official acts did not apply in this case as testimony at the trial related "entirely to unofficial conduct" and thus "entitled" the Republican "to no immunity protections." Also read | Trump slams Biden government over mystery drone sightings, says 'shoot them down' Historic decision Judge Juan Merchan's decision is nothing short of historic as it raises the prospect that Donald Trump could become the first US President to enter the White House with a felony conviction to his name, pending appeal against the jury's verdict. Even as Trump's legal team contended that the Supreme Court's landmark July ruling on presidential immunity applies here, prosecutors, according to US media reports, argued that their bid to have the case thrown out was "well beyond" what was needed to protect the presidency. Also read | Trump pledges to scrap daylight saving time, citing inconvenience and costs Trump legal team's argument On December 3, shortly after President Joe Biden pardoned his son Hunter Biden saying he was "selectively, and unfairly, prosecuted" by the Department of Justice (DOJ) "only because he is my son," the Trump team in a 69-page filing drew comparisons between their case and Biden's reasoning. They claimed that the DOJ similarly targeted Trump with politically motivated investigations. They also once again invoked presidential immunity — that the Supreme Court said only extends to 'official acts' while president — and the Presidential Transition Act, among other laws, to "immediately dismiss the Indictment and vacate the jury's verdicts." (With inputs from agencies)

Iran's supreme leader said Tuesday that Israel and the United States were "completely wrong" to imagine the Tehran-backed axis of&nbsp;resistance&nbsp;had collapsed with the&nbsp;ouster&nbsp;of Syria's longtime strongman.

"With the developments in Syria and the crimes the Zionist regime is committing and the crimes that America is committing, and the help that some others are giving to them, they thought that the&nbsp;resistance&nbsp;was&nbsp;over," Ayatollah Ali&nbsp;Khamenei&nbsp;said in a televised speech.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;How Coffee Promotes Good Bacteria?

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"They are completely&nbsp;wrong," he added.&nbsp;

On December 8, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad&nbsp;fled the country as rebel forces entered the capital Damascus&nbsp;after&nbsp;a lightning offensive.&nbsp;

Fellow Axis members Hamas and Hezbollah have also suffered heavy losses since the Palestinian militant group attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, sparking war in Gaza and later in Lebanon.

Since&nbsp;Assad's fall,&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;has sought to distance itself from the ousted leader, instead emphasising the history of friendship between the two countries.&nbsp;Khamenei&nbsp;has also insisted that&nbsp;Assad's overthrow will not weaken&nbsp;Iran.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-arrests-jerusalem-man-for-spying-on-behalf-of-iran-784740">Israel arrests Jerusalem man for spying on behalf of Iran</a>

"The Zionist regime imagines it can encircle and eradicate the Hezbollah forces through Syria, but the one who will be eradicated is Israel,"&nbsp;Khamenei&nbsp;said on Tuesday.

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.

&nbsp;

Iran's supreme leader said Tuesday that Israel and the United States were "completely wrong" to imagine the Tehran-backed axis of resistance had collapsed with the ouster of Syria's longtime strongman.

Iran's supreme leader said Tuesday that Israel and the United States were "completely wrong" to imagine the Tehran-backed axis of resistance had collapsed with the ouster of Syria's longtime strongman. "With the developments in Syria and the crimes the Zionist regime is committing and the crimes that America is committing, and the help that some others are giving to them, they thought that the resistance was over," Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in a televised speech. Watch | How Coffee Promotes Good Bacteria? "They are completely wrong," he added. On December 8, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad fled the country as rebel forces entered the capital Damascus after a lightning offensive. Fellow Axis members Hamas and Hezbollah have also suffered heavy losses since the Palestinian militant group attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, sparking war in Gaza and later in Lebanon. Since Assad's fall, Iran has sought to distance itself from the ousted leader, instead emphasising the history of friendship between the two countries. Khamenei has also insisted that Assad's overthrow will not weaken Iran. Also read | Israel arrests Jerusalem man for spying on behalf of Iran "The Zionist regime imagines it can encircle and eradicate the Hezbollah forces through Syria, but the one who will be eradicated is Israel," Khamenei said on Tuesday. 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.

Iran's Khamenei says 'resistance' not over after Assad ouster

Pope Francis has said that he escaped two attempts on his life during his historic visit to Iraq in 2021. He made this claim in his upcoming autobiography, which will be released next month.

Pope Francis has said that he escaped two attempts on his life during his historic visit to Iraq in 2021. He made this claim in his upcoming autobiography, which will be released next month. On Tuesday (Dec 17), Italian media published an excerpt from the autobiography titled "Hope" which talked about Pope Francis being targeted. The autobiography is due to be released on January 14. The attempts on Pope's life Pope Francis, who turned 88 on Tuesday, said that during his visit to Iraq, "A woman packed with explosives, a young suicide bomber, was heading towards Mosul to blow herself up during the papal visit." Also read | Pope Francis, for the first time, labels Israel's actions in Gaza as 'genocide'; calls for investigation "And a van had also set off at great speed with the same intention," he added. According to Italian media, two attackers were intercepted and killed by the Iraqi police. Pope's historic visit to Iraq in March 2021 lasted for three days. At that time, this was Francis's first trip in 15 months and took place in the middle of the Covid pandemic. 'Almost everyone advised me against Iraq visit' The excerpt from the pope's biography further revealed that "almost everyone advised me" against the visit to Iraq, "but I wanted to get to the bottom of things. I felt I had to do it." Also watch | Pope elevates 21 new cardinals During his trips abroad, the pope's security is taken care of by the Pontifical Swiss Guard and the Vatican Gendarmerie, in collaboration with local law enforcement. (With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis says he escaped two attempts on his life during 2021 Iraq visit

In a major political setback to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, his deputy PM and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland tendered her resignation on Monday (Dec 16). The stepping down of the 56-year-old leader comes in the backdrop of the looming threat of US President-elect Donald Trump’s sanctions on Canada. The move may threaten Trudeau’s hold on power as his approval ratings nosedive and his own party members grow impatient with his leadership.

Canada’s CTV News later reported that Trudeau was ‘considering his options as leader’ following Freeland’s move. Leaders from the opposition Conservative party and NDP have called on the PM to resign.

Pointing to Trump’s plan to impose 25 per cent tariffs on imports from Canada, Freeland in her letter wrote, “Our country today faces a grave challenge."

“For the past number of weeks, you and I have found ourselves at odds about the best path forward for Canada," the ex-finance minister wrote.

Making things worse for the Trudeau government, Freeland’s resignation came the same day she was supposed to table her fall economic statement – a document that includes key economic metrics such as the size of Canada’s deficit.

<h2>Trudeau heckled</h2>

Meanwhile, as Trudeau was on his way to appear at the Liberal fundraiser at the Canadian Museum of History in Ottawa, he was heckled by an onlooker.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi_-c2_8q2KAxUI1TQHHRhyGLsQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/guv-justin-trudeau-of-canada-trump-mocks-canadian-pm-amid-tariff-threat-782932" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/guv-justin-trudeau-of-canada-trump-mocks-canadian-pm-amid-tariff-threat-782932&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi_-c2_8q2KAxUI1TQHHRhyGLsQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">'Governor Justin Trudeau of Canada': Trump mocks Canadian PM amid tariff threat</a>

“You failed Canada, you ruined our country. You’re done. Walk away. You don’t have an ounce of your father’s integrity,” he yelled. Trudeau responded, “Have a good night, sir.”

<h2>Liberal MP Collins go all-out against Trudeau</h2>

Meanwhile, Ontario lawmaker Chad Collins openly declared Monday the Liberal Party needed a new leader, in open defiance to Trudeau.

“I’m not going to breach confidentiality in terms of what happened in caucus, but I can say we’re not united,” he said.

“There’s still a number of our members who feel we need a change in leadership. I’m one of those.”

Watch:&nbsp;Canada: Indian Government Urges Probe Into Student Murders, As Immigration Tightens Rules

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“We fear what a ‘make Canada great again’ agenda from Mr. Poilievre means to our constituents, and I think the only path forward for us is to choose a new leader, and to present a new plan to Canadians with a different vision,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a major political setback to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, his deputy PM and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland tendered her resignation on Monday (Dec 16).

In a major political setback to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, his deputy PM and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland tendered her resignation on Monday (Dec 16). The stepping down of the 56-year-old leader comes in the backdrop of the looming threat of US President-elect Donald Trump’s sanctions on Canada. The move may threaten Trudeau’s hold on power as his approval ratings nosedive and his own party members grow impatient with his leadership. Canada’s CTV News later reported that Trudeau was ‘considering his options as leader’ following Freeland’s move. Leaders from the opposition Conservative party and NDP have called on the PM to resign. Pointing to Trump’s plan to impose 25 per cent tariffs on imports from Canada, Freeland in her letter wrote, “Our country today faces a grave challenge." “For the past number of weeks, you and I have found ourselves at odds about the best path forward for Canada," the ex-finance minister wrote. Making things worse for the Trudeau government, Freeland’s resignation came the same day she was supposed to table her fall economic statement – a document that includes key economic metrics such as the size of Canada’s deficit. Trudeau heckled Meanwhile, as Trudeau was on his way to appear at the Liberal fundraiser at the Canadian Museum of History in Ottawa, he was heckled by an onlooker. Also read: 'Governor Justin Trudeau of Canada': Trump mocks Canadian PM amid tariff threat “You failed Canada, you ruined our country. You’re done. Walk away. You don’t have an ounce of your father’s integrity,” he yelled. Trudeau responded, “Have a good night, sir.” Liberal MP Collins go all-out against Trudeau Meanwhile, Ontario lawmaker Chad Collins openly declared Monday the Liberal Party needed a new leader, in open defiance to Trudeau. “I’m not going to breach confidentiality in terms of what happened in caucus, but I can say we’re not united,” he said. “There’s still a number of our members who feel we need a change in leadership. I’m one of those.” Watch: Canada: Indian Government Urges Probe Into Student Murders, As Immigration Tightens Rules × “We fear what a ‘make Canada great again’ agenda from Mr. Poilievre means to our constituents, and I think the only path forward for us is to choose a new leader, and to present a new plan to Canadians with a different vision,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Trudeau next? Ontario Liberal MP calls for change in leadership after Canada Deputy PM's resignation

Ottawa
In a major political setback to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, his deputy PM and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland tendered her resignation on Monday (Dec 16). The stepping down of the 56-year-old leader comes in the backdrop of the looming threat of US President-elect Donald Trump’s sanctions on Canada. The move may threaten Trudeau’s hold on power as his approval ratings nosedive and his own party members grow impatient with his leadership.
Canada’s CTV News later reported that Trudeau was ‘considering his options as leader’ following Freeland’s move. Leaders from the opposition Conservative party and NDP have called on the PM to resign.
Pointing to Trump’s plan to impose 25 per cent tariffs on imports from Canada, Freeland in her letter wrote, “Our country today faces a grave challenge."
“For the past number of weeks, you and I have found ourselves at odds about the best path forward for Canada," the ex-finance minister wrote.
Making things worse for the Trudeau government, Freeland’s resignation came the same day she was supposed to table her fall economic statement – a document that includes key economic metrics such as the size of Canada’s deficit.
<h2>Trudeau heckled</h2>
Meanwhile, as Trudeau was on his way to appear at the Liberal fundraiser at the Canadian Museum of History in Ottawa, he was heckled by an onlooker.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwi_-c2_8q2KAxUI1TQHHRhyGLsQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/guv-justin-trudeau-of-canada-trump-mocks-canadian-pm-amid-tariff-threat-782932" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/guv-justin-trudeau-of-canada-trump-mocks-canadian-pm-amid-tariff-threat-782932&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi_-c2_8q2KAxUI1TQHHRhyGLsQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">'Governor Justin Trudeau of Canada': Trump mocks Canadian PM amid tariff threat</a>
“You failed Canada, you ruined our country. You’re done. Walk away. You don’t have an ounce of your father’s integrity,” he yelled. Trudeau responded, “Have a good night, sir.”
<h2>Liberal MP Collins go all-out against Trudeau</h2>
Meanwhile, Ontario lawmaker Chad Collins openly declared Monday the Liberal Party needed a new leader, in open defiance to Trudeau.
“I’m not going to breach confidentiality in terms of what happened in caucus, but I can say we’re not united,” he said.
“There’s still a number of our members who feel we need a change in leadership. I’m one of those.”
Watch: Canada: Indian Government Urges Probe Into Student Murders, As Immigration Tightens Rules
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“We fear what a ‘make Canada great again’ agenda from Mr. Poilievre means to our constituents, and I think the only path forward for us is to choose a new leader, and to present a new plan to Canadians with a different vision,” he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

Making things worse for the Trudeau government, Freeland’s resignation came the same day she was supposed to table her fall economic statement



Ottawa In a major political setback to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, his deputy PM and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland tendered her resignation on Monday (Dec 16). The stepping down of the 56-year-old leader comes in the backdrop of the looming threat of US President-elect Donald Trump’s sanctions on Canada. The move may threaten Trudeau’s hold on power as his approval ratings nosedive and his own party members grow impatient with his leadership. Canada’s CTV News later reported that Trudeau was ‘considering his options as leader’ following Freeland’s move. Leaders from the opposition Conservative party and NDP have called on the PM to resign. Pointing to Trump’s plan to impose 25 per cent tariffs on imports from Canada, Freeland in her letter wrote, “Our country today faces a grave challenge." “For the past number of weeks, you and I have found ourselves at odds about the best path forward for Canada," the ex-finance minister wrote. Making things worse for the Trudeau government, Freeland’s resignation came the same day she was supposed to table her fall economic statement – a document that includes key economic metrics such as the size of Canada’s deficit. Trudeau heckled Meanwhile, as Trudeau was on his way to appear at the Liberal fundraiser at the Canadian Museum of History in Ottawa, he was heckled by an onlooker. Also read: 'Governor Justin Trudeau of Canada': Trump mocks Canadian PM amid tariff threat “You failed Canada, you ruined our country. You’re done. Walk away. You don’t have an ounce of your father’s integrity,” he yelled. Trudeau responded, “Have a good night, sir.” Liberal MP Collins go all-out against Trudeau Meanwhile, Ontario lawmaker Chad Collins openly declared Monday the Liberal Party needed a new leader, in open defiance to Trudeau. “I’m not going to breach confidentiality in terms of what happened in caucus, but I can say we’re not united,” he said. “There’s still a number of our members who feel we need a change in leadership. I’m one of those.” Watch: Canada: Indian Government Urges Probe Into Student Murders, As Immigration Tightens Rules × “We fear what a ‘make Canada great again’ agenda from Mr. Poilievre means to our constituents, and I think the only path forward for us is to choose a new leader, and to present a new plan to Canadians with a different vision,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

A school shooting in Madison, Wisconsin, has left two dead and six injured after a teenage female student opened fire before she was found dead.

Meanwhile, US President-elect Donald Trump's legal troubles continue as a US judge ruled that he does not have presidential immunity in the hush money case.

In South Korea, prosecutors have warned suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol to cooperate in investigations over his martial law attempt or face arrest.

Finally, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faces mounting pressure as Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland resigned, triggering calls for leadership change amid tensions with the US.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines for more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/madison-school-shooting-two-killed-six-injured-in-shooting-by-17-year-old-female-student-784505">Madison school shooting: Two killed, six injured in gun attack by 17-year-old female student</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/17/471544-new-wion-2024-12-17t064816761.jpg?imwidth=400" />

In the US state of Wisconsin, a teenage student at a Madison-based private school opened fire on Monday (Dec 16), killing a student and a teacher. At least six others were wounded in the attack by an unidentified female student, who was later found dead.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breaking-trump-does-not-have-presidential-immunity-in-hush-money-case-rules-judge-784503">Donald Trump does not have presidential immunity in hush money case, rules judge</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/04/469397-new-wion-87.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Donald Trump does not have presidential immunity in the hush money case, ruled a US judge on Monday (Dec 16).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-prosecutors-warn-suspended-president-yoon-suk-yeol-to-cooperate-or-face-arrest-784514">South Korean prosecutors warn suspended president Yoon Suk Yeol to cooperate or face arrest</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/17/471551-new-wion-2024-12-17t072926933.jpg?imwidth=400" />

South Korean prosecutors on Tuesday (Dec 17) ordered suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol to appear by the weekend for questioning over his controversial martial law attempt, warning that he could face arrest if he fails to comply, reported Yonhap News Agency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trudeau-next-canada-deputy-pm-freeland-resigns-in-rare-public-dissent-over-trump-tariff-threat-784530">Trudeau next? Ontario Liberal MP calls for change in leadership after Canada Deputy PM's resignation</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/17/471564-freeland-resigns.jpg?imwidth=400" />

In what comes as a major political setback to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, his deputy PM and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland tendered her resignation Monday (Dec 16). The stepping down of the 56-year-old leader comes in the backdrop of the looming threat of US President-elect Donald Trump’s sanctions on Canada. The move may threaten Trudeau’s hold on power as his approval ratings nosedive and his own party members grow impatient with his leadership.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine War Turning in Russia's Favour, Says Putin

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A school shooting in Madison, Wisconsin, has left two dead and six injured after a teenage female student opened fire before she was found dead. Meanwhile, US President-elect Donald Trump's legal troubles continue as a US judge ruled that he does not have presidential immunity in the hush money case.

A school shooting in Madison, Wisconsin, has left two dead and six injured after a teenage female student opened fire before she was found dead. Meanwhile, US President-elect Donald Trump's legal troubles continue as a US judge ruled that he does not have presidential immunity in the hush money case. In South Korea, prosecutors have warned suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol to cooperate in investigations over his martial law attempt or face arrest. Finally, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faces mounting pressure as Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland resigned, triggering calls for leadership change amid tensions with the US. Click on the headlines for more Madison school shooting: Two killed, six injured in gun attack by 17-year-old female student In the US state of Wisconsin, a teenage student at a Madison-based private school opened fire on Monday (Dec 16), killing a student and a teacher. At least six others were wounded in the attack by an unidentified female student, who was later found dead. Donald Trump does not have presidential immunity in hush money case, rules judge Donald Trump does not have presidential immunity in the hush money case, ruled a US judge on Monday (Dec 16). South Korean prosecutors warn suspended president Yoon Suk Yeol to cooperate or face arrest South Korean prosecutors on Tuesday (Dec 17) ordered suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol to appear by the weekend for questioning over his controversial martial law attempt, warning that he could face arrest if he fails to comply, reported Yonhap News Agency. Trudeau next? Ontario Liberal MP calls for change in leadership after Canada Deputy PM's resignation In what comes as a major political setback to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, his deputy PM and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland tendered her resignation Monday (Dec 16). The stepping down of the 56-year-old leader comes in the backdrop of the looming threat of US President-elect Donald Trump’s sanctions on Canada. The move may threaten Trudeau’s hold on power as his approval ratings nosedive and his own party members grow impatient with his leadership. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine War Turning in Russia's Favour, Says Putin

Morning news brief: Wisconsin school shooting; South Korea prosecutors' warning to Yoon, and more

New Delhi, India
A school shooting in Madison, Wisconsin, has left two dead and six injured after a teenage female student opened fire before she was found dead.
Meanwhile, US President-elect Donald Trump's legal troubles continue as a US judge ruled that he does not have presidential immunity in the hush money case.
In South Korea, prosecutors have warned suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol to cooperate in investigations over his martial law attempt or face arrest.
Finally, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faces mounting pressure as Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland resigned, triggering calls for leadership change amid tensions with the US. 
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/madison-school-shooting-two-killed-six-injured-in-shooting-by-17-year-old-female-student-784505">Madison school shooting: Two killed, six injured in gun attack by 17-year-old female student</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/17/471544-new-wion-2024-12-17t064816761.jpg"/>
In the US state of Wisconsin, a teenage student at a Madison-based private school opened fire on Monday (Dec 16), killing a student and a teacher. At least six others were wounded in the attack by an unidentified female student, who was later found dead.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breaking-trump-does-not-have-presidential-immunity-in-hush-money-case-rules-judge-784503">Donald Trump does not have presidential immunity in hush money case, rules judge</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/04/469397-new-wion-87.jpg"/>
Donald Trump does not have presidential immunity in the hush money case, ruled a US judge on Monday (Dec 16). 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-prosecutors-warn-suspended-president-yoon-suk-yeol-to-cooperate-or-face-arrest-784514">South Korean prosecutors warn suspended president Yoon Suk Yeol to cooperate or face arrest</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/17/471551-new-wion-2024-12-17t072926933.jpg"/>
South Korean prosecutors on Tuesday (Dec 17) ordered suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol to appear by the weekend for questioning over his controversial martial law attempt, warning that he could face arrest if he fails to comply, reported Yonhap News Agency.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trudeau-next-canada-deputy-pm-freeland-resigns-in-rare-public-dissent-over-trump-tariff-threat-784530">Trudeau next? Ontario Liberal MP calls for change in leadership after Canada Deputy PM's resignation</a>
<img alt="main img" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/17/471564-freeland-resigns.jpg"/>
In what comes as a major political setback to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, his deputy PM and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland tendered her resignation Monday (Dec 16). The stepping down of the 56-year-old leader comes in the backdrop of the looming threat of US President-elect Donald Trump’s sanctions on Canada. The move may threaten Trudeau’s hold on power as his approval ratings nosedive and his own party members grow impatient with his leadership.
Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine War Turning in Russia's Favour, Says Putin
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New Delhi, India A school shooting in Madison, Wisconsin, has left two dead and six injured after a teenage female student opened fire before she was found dead. Meanwhile, US President-elect Donald Trump's legal troubles continue as a US judge ruled that he does not have presidential immunity in the hush money case. In South Korea, prosecutors have warned suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol to cooperate in investigations over his martial law attempt or face arrest. Finally, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faces mounting pressure as Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland resigned, triggering calls for leadership change amid tensions with the US. Click on the headlines for more Madison school shooting: Two killed, six injured in gun attack by 17-year-old female student In the US state of Wisconsin, a teenage student at a Madison-based private school opened fire on Monday (Dec 16), killing a student and a teacher. At least six others were wounded in the attack by an unidentified female student, who was later found dead. Donald Trump does not have presidential immunity in hush money case, rules judge Donald Trump does not have presidential immunity in the hush money case, ruled a US judge on Monday (Dec 16). South Korean prosecutors warn suspended president Yoon Suk Yeol to cooperate or face arrest South Korean prosecutors on Tuesday (Dec 17) ordered suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol to appear by the weekend for questioning over his controversial martial law attempt, warning that he could face arrest if he fails to comply, reported Yonhap News Agency. Trudeau next? Ontario Liberal MP calls for change in leadership after Canada Deputy PM's resignation In what comes as a major political setback to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, his deputy PM and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland tendered her resignation Monday (Dec 16). The stepping down of the 56-year-old leader comes in the backdrop of the looming threat of US President-elect Donald Trump’s sanctions on Canada. The move may threaten Trudeau’s hold on power as his approval ratings nosedive and his own party members grow impatient with his leadership. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine War Turning in Russia's Favour, Says Putin

A new study underscores that drinking coffee may alter the composition of your gut microbiome, the environment of microorganisms like bacteria inhabiting your intestinal tract. Watch for more details!

Study Reveals Coffee Helps in Supporting Gut Bacteria

Bulgarian blind mystic Baba Vanga, also known as Vangelia Pandeva Gushterova, who died at the age of 85 in 1996, made some terrific prophecies for 2025.&nbsp;

Known as the 'Nostradamus of the Balkans,' Baba Vanga is believed to have developed the gift of prophecy after losing her eyesight at the age of 12.&nbsp;

One of the&nbsp;most prominent predictions of Baba Vanga that turned out to be true was the 9/11 attack on the Twin Towers in New York.

<h2>Here's what Baba Vanga predicted for 2025</h2>

A lot of chilling predictions were made by Baba Vanga for 2025, many of which included destruction and death. Here are a few of her chilling prophecies:&nbsp;

<h3>Europe's destruction</h3>

As reported by the Daily Star, Baba Vanga had predicted the West's absolute destruction and war.&nbsp;

"As soon as Syria falls, expect a great war between the West and the East. In the spring, a war in the East will begin, and there will be a Third World War. A war in the East that will destroy the West," she said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/merriam-websters-2024-word-of-the-year-is-polarisation-783010">Merriam-Webster’s 2024 word of the year is 'polarisation'</a>

"Syria will fall at the feet of the winner, but the winner will not be the one," Baba Vanga said in another prediction.&nbsp;

<h3>Establishing contact with aliens</h3>

According to the report published in the Daily Star, Vanga had warned: "Humanity will make contact with extraterrestrial life, possibly leading to a global crisis or apocalypse."

<h3>Humanity to develop telepathy&nbsp;</h3>

Baba Vanga said that telepathy would be developed by humanity by 2025, which will allow direct mind-to-mind communication and will revolutionise human interaction.

<h3>Scientific breakthroughs in 2025</h3>

If one goes by the predictions of Baba Vanga, 2025 will be the year of major scientific and medical breakthroughs, which will include advancements in nanotechnology.&nbsp;

However, she warned against the misuse of technologies for destructive purposes.&nbsp;

<h3>Beginning of apocalypse</h3>

Baba Vanga had issued a warning that a series of catastrophic events will take place in 2025, which will mark the “beginning of the apocalypse.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Bulgarian blind mystic Baba Vanga, also known as Vangelia Pandeva Gushterova, who died at the age of 85 in 1996, made some terrific prophecies for 2025. Known as the 'Nostradamus of the Balkans,' Baba Vanga is believed to have developed the gift of prophecy after losing her eyesight at the age of 12.

Bulgarian blind mystic Baba Vanga, also known as Vangelia Pandeva Gushterova, who died at the age of 85 in 1996, made some terrific prophecies for 2025. Known as the 'Nostradamus of the Balkans,' Baba Vanga is believed to have developed the gift of prophecy after losing her eyesight at the age of 12. One of the most prominent predictions of Baba Vanga that turned out to be true was the 9/11 attack on the Twin Towers in New York. Here's what Baba Vanga predicted for 2025 A lot of chilling predictions were made by Baba Vanga for 2025, many of which included destruction and death. Here are a few of her chilling prophecies: Europe's destruction As reported by the Daily Star, Baba Vanga had predicted the West's absolute destruction and war. "As soon as Syria falls, expect a great war between the West and the East. In the spring, a war in the East will begin, and there will be a Third World War. A war in the East that will destroy the West," she said. Also Read: Merriam-Webster’s 2024 word of the year is 'polarisation' "Syria will fall at the feet of the winner, but the winner will not be the one," Baba Vanga said in another prediction. Establishing contact with aliens According to the report published in the Daily Star, Vanga had warned: "Humanity will make contact with extraterrestrial life, possibly leading to a global crisis or apocalypse." Humanity to develop telepathy Baba Vanga said that telepathy would be developed by humanity by 2025, which will allow direct mind-to-mind communication and will revolutionise human interaction. Scientific breakthroughs in 2025 If one goes by the predictions of Baba Vanga, 2025 will be the year of major scientific and medical breakthroughs, which will include advancements in nanotechnology. However, she warned against the misuse of technologies for destructive purposes. Beginning of apocalypse Baba Vanga had issued a warning that a series of catastrophic events will take place in 2025, which will mark the “beginning of the apocalypse.” (With inputs from agencies)

Europe's destruction, contact with aliens: Here's what Baba Vanga predicted for 2025

The People’s Liberation Army’s electronic warfare unit has produced a list of targets for a coordinated attack against US aircraft carrier strike groups. Watch this report for more details!

Chinese Military Unveils Electronic Warfare Kill List

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