Russian President Vladimir Putin stated during a press conference that peace in Ukraine would only be achieved when Russia fulfills its goals, emphasizing "Denazification of Ukraine, the demilitarization of Ukraine." Despite previous terms, Putin, noting Ukraine's counteroffensive setbacks, signals a continued push for full capitulation. He dismisses the need for a new mobilization in Russia, claiming sufficient armed forces, and alleges a drying up of Western military aid to Ukraine. Putin asserts, "Ukraine produces nearly nothing, everything is coming from the west, but the free things will run out someday."

Kenya's President William Ruto has announced a groundbreaking move to enhance tourism by abolishing visa requirements for all travelers starting January 2024. The nation's digital platform will now facilitate electronic travel authorization in advance, eliminating the need for traditional visa applications. President Ruto expressed the vision for a seamless travel experience, stating, "It shall no longer be necessary for any person from any corner of the globe to carry the burden of applying for a visa to come to Kenya." This initiative aligns with Ruto's longstanding advocacy for visa-free travel within Africa, aiming to boost Kenya's thriving tourism sector.

At least 15 members of Parliament faced suspension on Thursday for alleged unruly behavior amid the furor over the shocking security breach in the Lok Sabha. The censured lawmakers include one Rajya Sabha MP - Trinamool's Derek O'Brien who sought discussion on the infiltration - alongside 14 Lok Sabha members like Manickam Tagore and Kanimozhi. Earlier five Congress parliamentarians were suspended for the winter session over conduct concerns raised by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi. The wave of suspensions targeted vocal opposition figures demanding accountability from the government for the egregious security lapses that enabled intruders to access the temple of democracy's inner sanctum on Wednesday. But the disciplinary actions only intensified outrage over evading discussion on the core issue.

Opposition leaders excoriated the BJP government over the shocking Parliament infiltration, demanding Home Minister Amit Shah address the debacle in both houses. Shiv Sena MPs slammed the breach as shameful for national security, while Congress gave suspension of business notices seeking immediate discussion. AAP and other critics accused the dispensation of trying to divert attention from an implicated BJP MP's alleged visitor pass facilitation. Congress linked the saboteurs to Rahul Gandhi's yatra participants and leftist protests. But sources said six total conspirators hatched the plan, including four detained so far like those who invaded Lok Sabha. The opposition blitz comes after Wednesday's chaos when intruders jumped into the chamber yelling slogans. Multiple questions remain on how they penetrated Parliament with seemingly little resistance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a high-level meeting to address the shocking Parliament security breach on Wednesday, which prompted adjournment of both houses as the opposition sought answers. The four detained for the infiltration have been booked under the anti-terror Unlawful Activities Prevention Act besides the Indian Penal Code, and will be produced in court. Delhi Police's anti-terror squad probes the incident involving six total accused linked to the social media-based Bhagat Singh Fan Club per sources. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla reassured MPs on safety improvements after the glaring gaffe, which ominously occurred on the 2001 attack anniversary. A thorough investigation and review aims to plug vulnerabilities exposed on a charged day, prompting PM Modi's urgent consultations with top ministers.

Comedian Trevor Noah will make history as the first host to emcee the Grammy Awards four consecutive times. The Recording Academy formally confirmed Noah will return to anchor the 2023 ceremony. Announcing the news himself on his Spotify podcast, a thrilled Noah will also be among the nominees as his comedy special "I Wish You Would" contends for Best Comedy Album honors. He joins rare company as only a handful of Grammy hosts have scored nominations in the same year they helmed the prestigious event, Kenny Rogers achieving the feat first back in 1980. Beyond the personal excitement, Noah relishes the unique in-person perspective of guiding the star-studded show as the action unfolds before commenting on its highlights.

80 year old liquor tycoon Dr Lalit Khaitan has become India's newest billionaire, with his 40% stake in publicly traded alcohol group Radico Khaitan now valued at $1 billion after a 50% share price surge this year. Known for iconic brands like Magic Moments vodka and 8 PM whiskey, the Harvard-educated engineer from a traditional Marwari family never drank alcohol until inheriting his father's Rampur distillery business in 1972. Currently Radico Khaitan's Chairman boasting $380 million revenue, Dr Khaitan has spearheaded the company's rapid growth in tandem with India's booming liquor market. The lifelong teetotaler has received industry honors like the 2017 UPDA Lifetime Achievement Award for his pivotal role shaping the alcoholic beverage landscape.

The Lok Sabha Secretariat has taken swift action, suspending eight security personnel following a major security breach in Parliament. Intruders, leaping into the Lower House, set off colored smoke canisters, disrupting proceedings. The suspended personnel were stationed at critical access points during the incident. Two intruders were overpowered inside the Lok Sabha, while two others were detained outside. Police have detained five suspects, initiating a high-level probe led by the CRPF chief. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla plans to request a security review, and opposition leaders seek action against BJP MP Pratap Simha, who signed off on a visitor pass for an intruder.

In response to the surge of pilgrims at Sabarimala, Southern Railway announces the operation of Vande Bharat Sabari special trains. Connecting Chennai Central to Kottayam and Kacheguda to Kollam, these trains aim to cater to the additional passenger influx during the ongoing Sabarimala season. Train No. 06151 departs from MGR Chennai Central at 4:30 am, reaching Kottayam at 4:15 pm on December 15, 17, 22, and 24. The return journey, Train No. 06152, leaves Kottayam at 4:40 am on December 16, 18, 23, and 25. The initiative addresses recent mismanagement issues, providing timely relief to pilgrims.

A UDF team, investigating conditions at Sabarimala's Nilackal and Pamba, labels the situation "extremely pitiable." Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan criticizes the government's failure, citing pilgrims enduring 8-9 hour queues without basic amenities, emphasizing an artificially created rush. The absence of a viripanthal leaves pilgrims with limited resting places. Overcrowded buses at Nilackal lacked air conditioning, worsening the ordeal. The panel calls for legal action against severe human rights violations, underscoring the urgent need for improved facilities. The forthcoming report to the UDF state committee aims to address the distressing state of affairs and push for corrective measures at the revered pilgrimage site.