Russia launched a large-scale aerial attack on Ukrainian fuel and energy facilities, using precision weaponry. The strike was a response to Ukraine's use of U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles against a Russian airport. Ukrainian President Zelensky condemned the attack as one of the most severe on Ukraine’s energy network. The Ukrainian Air Force intercepted 81 missiles and 80 drones. The EU reaffirmed strong support for Ukraine’s military, economic, and financial needs and its NATO and EU membership, though some EU countries remain hesitant. U.S. President-elect Trump disagreed with Ukraine’s missile strikes, while Kremlin spokesman Peskov reiterated Moscow’s terms for peace negotiations.
The co-founders of luxury real estate brokerage Official, Oren, Tal, and Alon Alexander, have been arrested on sex-trafficking charges. Federal prosecutors accuse the brothers of drugging and sexually assaulting women for over a decade, starting in 2010. They allegedly lured women to parties or trips, where they raped them. The brothers face charges of sex-trafficking conspiracy and trafficking by force or coercion, with Tal facing an additional charge. Oren and Tal stepped down from their roles at Official in June. The brothers also face civil lawsuits. Prosecutors are prioritizing sex-trafficking cases, following recent convictions like Ghislaine Maxwell's.
Unidentified flying objects, presumed to be drones, have sparked intrigue and conspiracy theories in New Jersey since Thanksgiving. Sightings have prompted Governor Phil Murphy to seek federal answers and Senator Andy Kim to investigate personally. Theories range from foreign interference to extraterrestrial activity, though officials report no national security threats. A Facebook group with nearly 44,000 members shares photos, videos, and theories, fueling speculation. Residents, like Trisha Bushey, express growing concern as sightings persist nightly. Despite reassurances, the objects remain unexplained, with hobbyists and experts agreeing they are not ordinary aircraft. The mystery continues to captivate public attention and debate.
In Seoul, protesters demanding the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol are receiving support through online donations of hot coffee and snacks. Using delivery apps, people across South Korea pre-order drinks and food for the demonstrators, helping them endure the cold winter. The Royal Host cafe near the parliament has seen a surge in prepaid orders, with 1,000 cups of Americano already ordered for an upcoming rally. Some supporters unable to attend in person contribute by prepaying for items. Yoon survived the first impeachment attempt, but a second vote is scheduled for December 14, potentially sending the case to the Constitutional Court.
A recent AP-NORC poll reveals significant doubts among Americans regarding President-elect Donald Trump's ability to select qualified cabinet members. Many are not confident in his choices, with only 30% expressing strong confidence in his selections. Trump's nominees, including Pete Hegseth and Tulsi Gabbard, have faced public scrutiny. Hegseth, an Army veteran, has low approval due to past controversies, while Gabbard, a former Democrat, receives mixed reactions. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Marco Rubio also face divided opinions. While Rubio enjoys strong support among Republicans, overall approval for his nomination remains limited. The poll underscores concerns over Trump's cabinet picks.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte expressed grave concerns about the worsening security situation, stating that it is the worst in his lifetime and likely for others as well. He warned that NATO is unprepared for the threats Russia will pose in the coming years and called for a shift to a wartime mindset. Rutte emphasized the urgency of facing the dangers head-on, noting that the conflict in Ukraine could happen on NATO territory. He stressed that regardless of the war's outcome, NATO’s future security would remain at risk unless the alliance is prepared to confront the threats ahead. Rutte urged NATO members to accelerate defense production and spending, highlighting that NATO’s current target of spending 2% of GDP on defense is insufficient. Drawing comparisons to the Cold War, he pointed out that NATO members spent more than 3% of GDP on defense back then. He called for immediate action to secure NATO's future.
China's recent large-scale military activities around Taiwan are seen as a power projection, signalling that Beijing can act at will. On December 13, China's defence ministry responded to questions about the drills, stating it was up to China to decide on military actions and reaffirming its opposition to separatism. Unlike previous war games, China has kept its activities low-profile, only offering explanations through the Taiwan Affairs Office, which described them as "necessary measures" for defending sovereignty. Taiwanese officials warn that China’s actions aim to challenge regional stability, especially along the "First Island Chain," while asserting its claim over Taiwan. Meanwhile, China asserted its right to hold military drills, while Taiwan activated emergency responses to increased activity. Beijing's territorial claim over Taiwan is rejected, with Taipei insisting its future lies with its people.
Donald Trump plans to end birthright citizenship as he takes office on January 20. In this video, join @payal1303 as we break down birthright citizenship, the constitutional challenges involved, and how this controversial move could impact Indians living in the US. Experts weigh in on the legal hurdles, historical context, and broader implications for immigration policy. Will this proposal reshape America’s immigration system? Watch the full video to find out and share your thoughts in the comments!
‘It is the birth of a nation,’ says Syrian interim PM, leading Friday prayers at Umayyad Mosque
The White House recently reviewed reported drone sightings over New Jersey and the Mid-Atlantic region, finding no evidence of a national security or public safety threat. National Security spokesman John Kirby stated that many drones appeared to be lawfully operated manned aircraft. There were no reports of drones in restricted airspace, and the U.S. Coast Guard found no foreign involvement. While the FBI is investigating the sightings, asking residents to share any evidence, officials emphasized that the drones were not military aircraft. Although the number of sightings has increased, many may have been planes, or the same drone could have been reported multiple times. Concern arose when drones were spotted near sensitive locations such as the Picatinny Arsenal and President-elect Trump’s golf course. Drones are legal in New Jersey for recreational and commercial use, but must follow FAA regulations. Most drones spotted were larger than typical hobbyist models.
On December 12, an Israeli airstrike targeted the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, killing at least 20 Palestinians, including several children. The attack hit a postal facility where displaced families had sought shelter, damaging nearby homes. Nuseirat, one of Gaza's eight historic refugee camps, was established for Palestinians displaced during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war and has since become a densely populated urban area. Earlier in the day, two Israeli airstrikes in southern Gaza killed 13 Palestinians, who Gaza medics and Hamas claimed were part of a group protecting humanitarian aid trucks. The Israeli military countered, stating that those killed were Hamas militants attempting to hijack the aid. The conflict, now in its 14th month, continues to cause widespread destruction and loss of life in Gaza. As of now, there has been no response from the Israeli military to requests for comment regarding the Nuseirat airstrike.
The Pentagon dismissed claims by Congressman Jeff Van Drew that Iran is launching drones over New Jersey from a "mothership." Van Drew alleged an Iranian link to recent drone sightings, reported near Morris County and along the Raritan River. The FAA has restricted drone flights over Picatinny Arsenal and Trump National Golf Club. The FBI and New Jersey State Police have urged the public to report sightings. Pentagon assessments show no foreign involvement, and the drones posed no threat to military installations. Concerns remain over drone technology’s potential risks, prompting calls for greater transparency from law enforcement authorities.
Donald Trump will ring the New York Stock Exchange opening bell on December 12, coinciding with his selection as Time magazine’s 2024 "Person of the Year." The bell-ringing, a prestigious tradition marking the trading day's start, has featured notable figures like Ronald Reagan and Nelson Mandela. Trump, who earned the title in 2016, joins a lineup that previously included Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, and Taylor Swift. Known for leveraging stock market performance to tout his presidency's success, Trump returns to his roots as a New York real estate mogul while embracing his political resurgence with this symbolic and high-profile moment.
China’s Taiwan Affairs Office stated it will not tolerate Taiwan’s "separatist" forces and reiterated its commitment to defending sovereignty and peace in the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan's defense ministry reported increased Chinese military activity, including 53 aircraft near the island. The Taiwanese presidential office condemned these actions as a "blatant disruption" of regional security and stability. China has not confirmed military exercises but is deploying its largest naval fleet in nearly 30 years, signaling heightened tensions. Beijing’s actions are partly in response to President Lai Ching-te’s recent Pacific tour, which included stops in Hawaii and Guam, angering China’s government.
India evacuated 75 citizens, including 44 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir, from Syria as Islamist rebels captured Damascus, forcing President Bashar al-Assad to flee. The evacuation, coordinated by Indian embassies in Damascus and Beirut, followed security assessments amid Syria's escalating civil war. Evacuees safely crossed into Lebanon and will return via commercial flights. Assad’s government, in power since the 1960s, fell on December 8 after a rapid 14-day conflict. Rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) declared Damascus "liberated" and pledged to protect civilians. The Indian government advised remaining nationals in Syria to stay connected with the embassy for updates.
Former South Korean Defence Minister Kim Yong Hyun attempted suicide at a Seoul detention centre after his arrest on allegations of involvement in a failed martial law attempt. Kim is in stable condition following the unsuccessful attempt. He was arrested after a Seoul court approved a warrant related to his role in a rebellion and abuse of power, making him the first individual arrested in connection with the December 3 martial law decree. Kim had proposed the martial law to President Yoon Suk Yeol, triggering a nationwide investigation. A special police unit raided several government offices linked to the martial law declaration.
Protesters demanded justice outside the Tel Aviv courthouse where Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took the witness stand on Tuesday (December 10) for the first time in his long-running corruption trial. Netanyahu, 75, is Israel's first sitting prime minister to be charged with a crime. He is testifying at the same time Israel is engaged in a war in Gaza and facing possible new threats posed by regional turmoil, including in Syria. Prosecutors accuse Netanyahu of granting regulatory favours worth around 1.8 billion shekels (about $500 million) to Bezeq Telecom Israel (BEZQ.TA) in return for positive coverage of himself and his wife Sara on a news website controlled by the company's former chairman. He is also accused of negotiating a deal with the owner of Israel's Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper for better coverage in return for legislation to slow the growth of a rival paper. Watch here for more details -
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau discussed U.S.-Canada trade relations at an event with the Halifax Chamber of Commerce. He warned that Donald Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian imports, tied to stopping illegal immigration and drug flows like fentanyl, would devastate Canada's economy and cause hardship for Americans. Trudeau called for national unity to counter the impacts and emphasised Canada’s readiness to respond to unfair tariffs, as it had in the past. Advocating for a "win-win" outcome, Trudeau highlighted the importance of maintaining healthy trade ties, benefiting businesses and citizens on both sides of the border amidst potential economic challenges.
The Assad regime's 50-year reign in Syria has come to an end as rebels capture Damascus, forcing Bashar al-Assad into exile. While the world celebrates, India faces rising concerns over regional security, its economic ties with Syria, and the Kashmir issue. Could terror groups thrive in this power vacuum? Find out why this historic change matters for India.
Donald Trump once again mocked Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, referring to him as “Governor Justin Trudeau of the Great State of Canada” on his social media platform, Truth Social. This comment follows Trump's earlier remark about making Canada the 51st US state. The jibe came after a dinner at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, where they discussed potential tariffs. Trudeau had previously warned that Trump's 25% tariff threat would raise prices for Americans and stated Canada would retaliate. Speaking at a Halifax event, Trudeau acknowledged that dealing with Trump would be more challenging this time, given Trump’s clearer agenda.
F-1 student visas issued to Indian students in the US dropped by 38% in the first nine months of 2024, marking the lowest level since the pandemic. Only 64,008 visas were issued, compared to 103,495 in the same period in 2023. The decline comes amid reports of stricter US visa regulations under Donald Trump’s administration. Indian students remain a significant presence, constituting 29.4% of the international student population in US universities during 2023-2024. Experts attribute the decline to visa processing delays and extended interview wait times. Meanwhile, visas for Chinese students fell by 8% in the same period.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel is taking necessary security measures in response to the changes in Syria following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad. Israel sees both opportunities and risks in the upheaval, with concerns about rising Islamist rebel forces, including those with Al-Qaeda links. Netanyahu instructed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to secure strategic areas, including the Syrian Hermon summit. The collapse of Assad's regime has led to Hamas's increasing isolation, potentially opening doors for a hostage deal, though it remains uncertain. Israel informed the U.N. Security Council about its temporary measures along the Syrian border, emphasizing that its actions focus solely on security, not intervening in Syria's civil conflict. The U.K. and the U.N. also expressed concerns about Syria’s future, while U.N. refugee chief Filippo Grandi called for patience as millions of refugees assess the safety of returning to Syria after 13 years of civil war.
In an extended interview, President-elect Donald Trump discussed various policy areas, signaling shifts in tone and approach since his campaign. On the economy, he acknowledged that his planned tariffs might raise prices for American consumers, a departure from his earlier promises to reduce inflation and ease financial burdens. He also softened his stance on the Federal Reserve, stating he had no intention of asking Chairman Jerome Powell to step down. On immigration, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to sealing the U.S. southern border and deporting millions of undocumented individuals, including potential deportation of Dreamers, though he emphasized not wanting to separate families. He also suggested that birthright citizenship could be ended. Regarding foreign policy, Trump indicated that Ukraine should expect reduced U.S. aid under his administration. He reiterated his goal to end the Ukraine-Russia war but gave no specifics and was evasive about his conversations with Russian President Putin.
Israeli troops were spotted in Syrian territory near the U.N.-monitored buffer zone with the occupied Golan Heights on December 9. Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar described the military presence as "limited and temporary," aimed at ensuring Israel's security and preventing threats in the aftermath of Syrian President Assad's potential overthrow. On December 8, Israeli forces entered the demilitarised zone, created under the 1974 Separation of Forces Agreement. Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed Israel's plans to target and destroy strategic weapons in Syria, including missiles and air defense systems. The upheaval in Syria presents both opportunities and risks for Israel amid shifting regional dynamics.
Abu Mohammad al-Julani, commander of HTS, is a key figure in the Syrian civil war. Known for his role in the anti-Assad insurgency, al-Julani has shaped the rebel movement with his strategic and controversial leadership.
In his first post-election television interview, President-elect Donald Trump outlined key priorities for his second term. He announced plans to take executive action on his first day in office to end birthright citizenship, a move expected to face legal challenges. Trump reiterated his plan to deport all illegal immigrants, prioritizing those convicted of crimes, and expressed interest in a future deal to protect Dreamers. He confirmed he would pardon January 6 rioters immediately upon taking office. Trump also discussed domestic policy, including his stance on Social Security, Medicare, and the federal minimum wage, while acknowledging challenges with the Affordable Care Act. On foreign policy, Trump indicated a tough approach on NATO, hinted at reducing U.S. military aid to Ukraine, and suggested tariffs could increase costs for American families. He also voiced a unifying message, pledging to treat all Americans equally, regardless of their political support.
Syrian rebel forces claimed control of the capital Damascus on Sunday after a week-long lightning offensive, encountering no resistance from government troops, amid reports that President Bashar al-Assad has fled the country. Assad, who ruled the country with an iron fist for 24 years, boarded a plane to an undisclosed location, according to senior Syrian military officials who spoke to Reuters. The army command has reportedly informed officers that the Assad regime has fallen.
South Korean politician An Gwi-ryeong became a symbol of defiance after grappling with an armed soldier outside the National Assembly during a tense political standoff. This followed President Yoon Suk Yeol's unexpected declaration of martial law, which sparked widespread condemnation. Viral footage shows An grabbing the soldier’s rifle to block troops from interfering with lawmakers’ proceedings. Inside, 190 legislators successfully voted to overturn the decree, forcing Yoon to revoke martial law just six hours later. An described the confrontation as terrifying yet necessary, highlighting the fragility of South Korea’s hard-won democracy amid its struggle against authoritarian overreach.
On December 5, 2024, Acting U.S. Secret Service Director Ronald Rowe engaged in a heated exchange with Texas Representative Pat Fallon during a House hearing investigating two failed assassination attempts on former President Trump. The exchange escalated when Fallon questioned Rowe about his attendance at a September 11, 2021, anniversary ceremony, asking whether he was there to provide protection for high-level officials. Rowe strongly objected, telling Fallon not to invoke 9/11 for political purposes and defended his presence at the ceremony, stating he was there to represent the Secret Service. Rowe also addressed ongoing issues within the agency, stating that he was working to eliminate the "do-more-with-less" mindset, which had degraded the Secret Service. He highlighted efforts to address staffing shortages, announcing plans to hire 650 special agents and 350 uniformed officers in the coming months. Despite the tense exchange, Rowe received praise from many Republicans for his cooperation with the investigation.
On December 5, 2024, former U.S. President Barack Obama urged a new generation of leaders to engage with people they disagree with, emphasizing the importance of pluralism for the survival of democracy. Speaking at a "Democracy Forum" sponsored by his foundation, Obama addressed the deep political divisions in the U.S., particularly as Republican Donald Trump returns to the White House. Obama's comments came amid frustration within the Democratic Party following Vice President Kamala Harris' loss in the 2024 election. Harris lost every battleground state and the popular vote, leading to a loss of Democratic control over both the House and Senate. The disappointing results sparked infighting and calls for younger leadership. Despite his popularity, Obama was unable to help secure Harris' victory, and his advisers from the 2024 campaign are facing criticism for not taking responsibility for their campaign’s failures.
On December 5, 2024, a magnitude 7 earthquake struck off the northern California coast, near Ferndale, at a depth of 10 km. The quake prompted a tsunami warning affecting 4.7 million people along the California and Oregon coasts, including major areas like San Francisco and San Jose. The warning, issued by the U.S. National Tsunami Center, was expected to impact the coast by 12:10 p.m. Pacific Time. Power outages affected nearly 19,000 clients in Humboldt County, and evacuations were ordered for low-lying areas. However, no injuries or deaths were reported. The warning was lifted about 90 minutes later, as no significant tsunami materialized. Governor Gavin Newsom coordinated emergency efforts and highlighted concerns over potential damage, particularly in northern California counties like Del Norte and Humboldt. While the threat was over, local authorities began assessing the damage, underscoring the ongoing risks of living in earthquake-prone areas.
Bitcoin Crosses $100,000: Bitcoin has stormed past the $100,000 mark, marking a historic milestone fuelled by a mix of political and economic developments in the United States. The cryptocurrency‘s recent rally comes amid growing institutional confidence and a pro-crypto policy shift under the leadership of US President-Elect Donald Trump.
France's left-wing party, France Unbowed (LFI), demanded President Emmanuel Macron's resignation after Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s government was brought down through a no-confidence vote on December 4. The vote, supported by far-right and left-wing opposition lawmakers, passed with 331 votes, plunging France into a deeper political crisis. LFI’s Mathilde Panot argued that Macron’s entire political agenda had been defeated and called for his departure to resolve the impasse. Barnier, who faced criticism for using special constitutional powers to pass part of an unpopular budget, was expected to resign. The motion followed Macron's decision to call a snap election in June, which led to a polarized parliament. National Rally leader Jordan Bardella, though critical of the government, did not call for Macron’s resignation but opposed the proposed budget, particularly higher taxes. The crisis threatens France’s ability to legislate and address its budget deficit.
On December 3, Nika Gvaramia, leader of one of Georgia's four main opposition parties, was detained by police in Tbilisi after being beaten unconscious. The incident occurred amid ongoing protests against the government's decision to suspend EU membership talks. Gvaramia, a former justice minister and ally of ex-President Mikheil Saakashvili, was captured on video being carried by police after being knocked unconscious. The protests, which have been ongoing for seven nights, are fueled by opposition criticism of the government's pro-Russian stance and its abandonment of the West. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze defended the police's actions, claiming they were necessary to prevent a revolution. However, the opposition and human rights advocates have accused the government of turning authoritarian, with allegations of police brutality and torture against detained protesters. The crisis highlights deepening political divisions in the country, as many view the government’s actions as a step away from European integration.
Russian President Vladimir Putin praised India for creating stable conditions for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), drawing a comparison between India’s "Make in India" initiative and Russia’s import substitution programme. Putin expressed Russia's interest in establishing manufacturing facilities in India and emphasized the profitability of investing there. He highlighted the success of Russian brands replacing Western ones in sectors like consumer goods, IT, high-tech, and agriculture. Putin also stressed the importance of stronger Brics cooperation to support SME growth and called for member nations to evaluate key collaboration areas at the upcoming Brics summit in Brazil next year.
Russia expressed concern over South Korea's political crisis after President Yoon Suk Yeol briefly declared martial law before reversing the decision, triggering impeachment proceedings. Moscow’s Foreign Ministry criticised U.S. actions for exacerbating tensions on the Korean Peninsula. Russia has strengthened ties with North Korea, signing a mutual defence treaty in June, raising alarms among Western nations. Allegations surfaced of North Korea sending over 10,000 troops to Russia’s Kursk region to assist in the Ukraine war, though Moscow neither confirmed nor denied this. The situation underscores Russia’s geopolitical manoeuvring in Asia, complicating dynamics in the already tense region.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol agreed to lift martial law on Wednesday after parliament unanimously voted against it. Declared on December 3 to combat "anti-state forces" among political opponents, the decree provoked widespread protests and clashes outside the National Assembly. Parliament’s 190-strong vote, including members of Yoon’s ruling party, legally mandated the revocation under South Korea’s constitution. Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik confirmed its invalidation, marking an unprecedented political crisis for Yoon's administration. Justified by Yoon as essential for constitutional order and safety, the decree faced intense public and political opposition, raising global concerns over its impact on democracy.
The U.S. expressed "grave concern" over developments in South Korea after President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law in a surprise late-night address on December 3. Yoon claimed the move was necessary to counter "anti-state forces," sparking the country's most significant democratic challenge since the 1980s. Lawmakers unanimously rejected the decree, with protesters clashing with helmeted troops outside parliament. U.S. and South Korean militaries remain in contact, with no request for assistance from Seoul, according to the Pentagon. Yoon later agreed to lift martial law, honouring parliament's vote, amid mounting tensions and international alarm over South Korea's democratic stability.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer underscored the critical need for continued Western support for Ukraine to ensure the country is in the strongest position for potential peace talks. Speaking in London, Starmer acknowledged that while the situation in Ukraine is dire, a negotiated end to the war remains a possibility. He warned that a Russian victory would pose a severe threat to Europe’s security, stability, and prosperity, potentially emboldening Russia’s allies. Starmer reaffirmed the UK's commitment to backing Ukraine's self-defense for as long as necessary, emphasizing the importance of maintaining pressure on Russia. His comments come at a crucial moment, with Russian forces advancing quickly, and amid skepticism from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump about continued support for Ukraine. The UK has been one of Ukraine’s staunchest allies, being the first to provide sophisticated weapons. Starmer also called on European nations to protect freedom and security across the continent.
U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, addressed the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza during a press briefing on December 2. She emphasized that the situation is dire but assured that the U.S. is actively working to alleviate suffering by delivering essential aid, including food, to the Palestinian people. The U.S. is committed to finding a diplomatic solution to the ongoing conflict and has been working tirelessly on the ground to facilitate a ceasefire, bring hostages home, and address the humanitarian crisis. Additionally, Thomas-Greenfield confirmed that the U.S. is monitoring the situation in Lebanon to ensure that the ceasefire agreement is respected. The U.S. continues its relentless diplomatic efforts to bring an end to the conflict and alleviate the suffering of those affected by the violence in Gaza. The U.S. remains focused on both humanitarian assistance and long-term diplomatic solutions to resolve the crisis.
French President Emmanuel Macron faces a strong chance of a no-confidence vote in the National Assembly on December 2 due to the government's plan to use Article 49.3 to push a social security budget bill through parliament. The bill is expected to fail, but opposition parties may trigger the vote. The far-right National Rally (RN) is likely to support the motion, with RN President Jordan Bardella demanding pension increases and opposing cuts to medication reimbursements. Prime Minister Michel Barnier faces criticism, and analysts warn that if the far-right influences the government’s fiscal policies, it could worsen France’s financial situation.
The world could see a second wave of tariff war as Donald Trump takes office this January. The US President-elect has threatened a 100% tariff on the BRICS countries, including India, if they undercut the US dollar or replace it with another currency for international transactions. His remarks follow a BRICS meeting in October that discussed boosting non-dollar transactions. The BRICS grouping comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and other countries.
US President-elect Donald Trump announced Saturday (November 30) that he will nominate his former aide and “‘America First’ fighter” Kash Patel to lead the Federal Bureau of Investigation. But who is this Indian-Origin Kash Patel? Watch the video to know more
US President-elect Donald Trump announced Saturday (November 30) that he will nominate his former aide and “‘America First’ fighter” Kash Patel to lead the Federal Bureau of Investigation. But who is this Indian-Origin Kash Patel? Watch the video to know more
Over the past week opposition fighters have carried out a surprise sweep through government-held towns. Now, this rebel says, Aleppo has been "completely liberated". The attack, led by the militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, is the most significant challenge to Assad in years.
Russian President Vladimir Putin praised U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, calling him an experienced and intelligent politician but expressed concern over his safety following two assassination attempts. Putin was shocked by the methods used against Trump during the U.S. election, including attacks on his family, which he deemed "revolting." He also speculated that the Biden administration's decision to escalate the war in Ukraine could either assist Trump or complicate his relationship with Russia. Despite this, Putin expressed confidence that Trump would find a solution and reaffirmed that Moscow was ready for dialogue with the incoming U.S. president.
On November 21, Russia launched its new Oreshnik missile, carrying six warheads, against Dnipro, Ukraine, causing limited damage. The missile, described by President Putin as "unstoppable" and hypersonic, dropped multiple warheads using MIRV technology, similar to intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). Experts found no novel features but noted the design enables precise targeting and widespread impact. The missile’s steep, lofted trajectory was likely chosen to limit its range. Derived from the RS-26, it is costly for conventional strikes, suggesting a psychological tactic. Putin framed the launch as retaliation for Ukrainian attacks, warning of potential escalation and threats to Western military installations.
India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that relations with Canada remain "challenging" due to Canada's support for secessionist elements promoting an anti-India agenda. India has repeatedly urged Canada to take action against individuals involved in activities that threaten India's sovereignty, such as glorifying assassinations, issuing threats to Indian leaders, and supporting the balkanization of India. Tensions escalated after the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia, which Canada linked to India, a claim India denied. Despite the strained ties, India prioritizes the safety of its nationals in Canada and works with Canadian authorities to address issues promptly.