US Vice President JD Vance defended H-1B visa restrictions as "true Christian politics" prioritizing American labor and economic dignity at Turning Point USA's convention. He argued that Christian values should inform government's approach to economics, questioning why companies bypass American workers for cheaper third-world options. Meanwhile, Indian H-1B visa holders face severe disruptions as US consular offices abruptly rescheduled appointments between December 15-26, stranding professionals who traveled home for visa renewals. The delays follow expanded social media vetting policies implemented under the Trump administration. Previously limited to student visas, the online presence review now covers all H-1B specialty occupation workers and H-4 dependents, creating uncertainty for Indian professionals.

Over 200 Indians have been recruited into Russian armed forces since the Ukraine war began, with 26 killed, seven missing, and 50 still trapped, the Indian government told Parliament. While 119 have been discharged through diplomatic efforts, the crisis continues as young men from states like Uttar Pradesh and Punjab are lured through deceptive promises of high pay. Many traveled on student or tourist visas, only to face coercion into military service. Some faced choices between prison or frontline deployment after criminal arrests. India's MEA continues diplomatic engagement with Russian authorities for repatriation, facilitating DNA identification and coordinating with families for deceased nationals' return. (PC: AP)

Adidas orchestrated a historic meeting at Delhi's Purana Qila, bringing together football legend Lionel Messi and India's elite world champions. The iconic gathering featured Para Athletics champions Sumit Antil and Nishad Kumar, Women's World Boxing Champion Nikhat Zareen, and T20 World Champions Renuka Thakur and Kuldeep Yadav. Against the majestic heritage site backdrop, the athletes exchanged mutual respect and inspiration across different sporting disciplines. Messi acknowledged that despite playing different sports, champions share the same passion and drive. adidas GM Vijay Chauhan emphasized sport as the ultimate unifier, reinforcing the brand's vision to foster a dynamic multi-sport culture in India and create a global stage celebrating excellence beyond borders.

German engineer Michaela Benthaus made history as the world's first wheelchair user to travel to space. The European Space Agency employee, who suffered a spinal cord injury in a mountain bike accident seven years ago, joined five others on Blue Origin's 10-minute flight from Texas on Saturday. After reaching out online to retired SpaceX manager Hans Koenigsmann about whether her astronaut dream remained possible, he helped organize the historic mission. The crew reached just above the Kármán line, the recognized boundary of space. Benthaus independently transferred from her wheelchair into the capsule using a specially installed bench. Blue Origin modified ground support equipment to accommodate her, demonstrating that space accessibility is achievable for everyone.

Rare snowfall transformed parts of the Arabian desert into a striking white landscape this week, with snow covering vast stretches near the Saudi-UAE border. The unusual weather phenomenon was triggered by low-pressure systems over the Middle East, bringing heavy rain and snow to regions that typically experience extreme heat. Residents across northern Saudi Arabia stepped out to celebrate the rare winter sight, capturing the extraordinary moment as desert sands disappeared beneath a blanket of white. The unexpected snowfall created stunning contrasts in a landscape known for scorching temperatures, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience for local communities. This meteorological anomaly highlights the unpredictable nature of weather patterns affecting the Arabian Peninsula.

Israel has approved 19 new settlements in the occupied West Bank. The decision was cleared by the security cabinet. Far-right minister Bezalel Smotrich proposed the move. He said it was meant to block a future Palestinian state. Settlements in the West Bank are illegal under international law. Saudi Arabia condemned the decision. The United Nations warned the move will raise tensions. Violence in the area has increased since the Gaza war began. Rights groups say settlement growth weakens chances of peace. About 700,000 Israeli settlers live in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. (PC: BBC)

Nine people were killed when gunmen opened fire at a tavern in South Africa early Sunday. The attack happened in Bekkersdal, near Johannesburg. Police said the bar was selling alcohol illegally. The gunmen entered after midnight and shot at people without warning. Three died inside the tavern. Others were killed while trying to run away. Ten people were hurt and taken to hospital. Police said most attackers used pistols and one carried an AK-47. The attackers also robbed victims before fleeing. A manhunt has been launched. (PC: Al Jazeera)

A student from Gujarat has sent an SOS video from Ukraine. Sahil Mohammad Hussain said he went to Russia on a student visa. He claimed police framed him in a false drug case. He said he was forced to join the Russian army to clear the charge. After 15 days of training, he was sent to the front line. He later surrendered to Ukrainian forces. Sahil appealed to Narendra Modi for help. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said India is working to bring back such citizens. Families have urged swift action. (PC: NDTV)

India has dismissed reports of a security breach at the Bangladesh High Commission as misleading. The government said a small protest near the mission was peaceful and brief. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said police quickly dispersed the group. There was no attempt to cross security barriers. India also expressed concern over the killing of Hindu man Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh. Officials urged swift action against the killers. Security around the mission in New Delhi has been increased. India said it remains committed to protecting all foreign missions under international law. (PC: HT)

Poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar took part in a public debate on the existence of God in New Delhi. The event was held at the Constitution Club. Islamic scholar Mufti Shamail Nadwi argued for faith and free will. Akhtar questioned belief by pointing to war and human suffering. He said violence in God’s name raises moral doubts. During the debate, Akhtar quipped that Narendra Modi was “better” because he at least cares for people. The remark went viral online. The debate sparked sharp reactions across social media. (PC: India Today)