Undecided Republican Ginny Mitchell queried presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy at a CNN Townhall, asking how Americans could accept a non-Christian president. Ramaswamy responded, "I won't fake my identity. I am a Hindu." He emphasized, "Hinduism and Christianity share the same value set in common." Addressing concerns about promoting Christianity, he stated, "Would I be the best president for that? No, I would not be the perfect choice." Ramaswamy aims to make faith and patriotism cool, asserting, "My job will be to stand for values that America was founded on."            

Indian stock markets surged to new heights after the US Federal Reserve's commitment to unchanged interest rates and indications of an end to the rate tightening cycle by 2024. The BSE Sensex soared 935.95 points (1.35%) to an unprecedented 70,520.55, while the NSE Nifty 50 climbed 256.35 points (1.23%), hitting a record level of 21,182.7. Nifty IT led the gains, rising over 2.5%, with Nifty Bank and Nifty Financial Services up 1.7% each. Analysts project continued market expansion in 2024, fueled by positive global and domestic economic factors.

Amid a surge in respiratory infections, Southeast Asian governments are re-imposing preventive measures to curb the spread. Singapore has mandated mask-wearing at airports and implemented temperature scanners. The Ministry of Health cites factors like waning immunity and increased year-end travel. In Indonesia, citizens are urged to delay travel, complete vaccinations, and adhere to safety protocols. Malaysia reports a doubling of COVID-19 cases but assures control. Tensions rise as fears of drastic measures return, countered by officials dispelling misinformation. The emergence of JN.1 variant raises concerns globally. Governments intensify efforts to curb transmission and protect healthcare systems. [Representative Image]

In a commendable effort, the Trishakti Corps of the Indian Army rescued over 800 tourists, including elderly, women, and children, stranded in eastern Sikkim due to heavy snowfall and inclement weather. The extensive rescue mission, continuing late into the evening, ensured the safe relocation of all tourists to sheltered areas. Soldiers, demonstrating exceptional commitment, even vacated barracks to accommodate the stranded individuals. The rescued tourists received warm clothing, medical aid, and hot meals. This swift and comprehensive operation highlights the Indian Army's dedication to ensuring the well-being of those affected by adverse weather conditions.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau clarified his September 18 House of Commons statement on allegations tying Indian agents to Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing. In an interview, Trudeau explained, “We felt... quiet diplomacy... needed a further level of deterrence.” Stressing concerns over Canadians' vulnerability, he expressed intent to reveal evidence on June 18. Responding to US comparisons, Trudeau stated, “Canada is investigating a murder and our justice system has different processes.” He accused India of an information war and ineffective discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G20 summit. India's Ministry of External Affairs has yet to respond to Trudeau's remarks.            

In a shocking incident at Allahabad University, MA student Prabhat Yadav sustained critical injuries as a bomb he was allegedly crafting exploded in his hostel room. The explosion, occurring in PC Banerjee Hostel, left Yadav with severe damage to his right hand. The motive behind the bomb-making remains unclear. A second student suffered minor injuries in the incident. Assistant Commissioner of Police (Shivkuti) Rajesh Kumar Yadav confirmed Yadav's critical condition, with the injured students admitted to SRN Hospital. Authorities plan to register a case against Prabhat Yadav as investigations into the incident unfold.

The Republican-controlled US House of Representatives voted to initiate a formal impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden, centered on his son Hunter's international dealings. Allegations of influence-peddling during Hunter's business ventures in Ukraine and China are at the core, though no evidence has been presented. The party-line vote of 221 to 212 sets the stage for a politically charged platform for Republicans, aiming to impact Biden's 2024 reelection campaign. Biden denounced the move as a "baseless political stunt," emphasizing Republicans' failure to address pressing issues. The inquiry, if pursued, faces challenges in a Democrat-controlled Senate.

Six unemployed youths orchestrated the major security breach in the Lok Sabha, spraying yellow gas during a session. The 5th suspect, Vishal Sharma, was apprehended in Gurugram, while the 6th remains at large, other 4 suspects were arrested earlier. All accused, including those who infiltrated the Parliament, were unemployed with diverse backgrounds. The breach, occurring on the anniversary of the 2001 Parliament attack, raised concerns about the security system. The Delhi police, invoking UAPA, charged the suspects, who claimed dissatisfaction over the farmers' protest, Manipur crisis, and unemployment. The Home Ministry has ordered an inquiry, leading to an overhaul of Parliament serity protocol.  

Amid heightened global concern over the Gaza conflict, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan is set to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on December 14-15. Concurrently, Israel's Foreign Minister, Eli Cohen, reaffirms an unwavering commitment to continue the war against Hamas, dismissing international calls for a ceasefire. Despite President Biden's caution and a UN plea for humanitarian intervention, Cohen argues a ceasefire would empower Hamas. The conflict's toll on northern Gaza is dire, with over 18,000 Palestinian casualties and 80% of the population displaced. President Biden voices apprehension over waning global support, urging restraint.            

A declassified US intelligence report reveals staggering losses for Russia in the Ukraine war—315,000 dead and injured troops, nearly 90% of its initial force. The report asserts setbacks in Moscow's military modernization, equivalent to an 18-year delay. Russia's invasion began with 360,000 personnel, and 87% have been killed or injured since February 2022. The dire situation prompts Russia to ease recruitment standards and declare a partial mobilization. With 2,200 tanks lost, the army resorts to using outdated T62 tanks from the 1970s. Western estimates challenge Russian claims, highlighting the significant toll on both sides.