News in Brief -2023-12-07)

Iran sends capsule with animals into orbit
as it prepares for human missions
TEHRAN, Dec 06: Iran said Wednesday it sent a capsule into orbit carrying animals as it prepares for human missions in coming years. A report by the official IRNA news agency quoted Telecommunications Minister Isa Zarepour as saying the capsule was launched 130 kilometers (80 miles) into orbit. Zarepour said the launch of the 500-kilogram (1,000-pound) capsule is aimed at sending Iranian astronauts to space in coming years.—AP
Nepal detains 12 for illegal recruitment
of citizens in Russian army
KATHMANDU, Dec 06: Police in Nepal said Wednesday they had detained 12 people accused of illegally sending young men to be recruited into the Russian army, days after authorities confirmed the death of six Nepalis fighting for Moscow. Nepal prohibits its citizens from joining foreign armies, except those of countries with which it has agreements to do so. Those detained had allegedly procured documents and arranged visas to send people to Russia via India and the United Arab Emirates, according to Nepal district police spokesman Kumud Dhungel. — AFP
Putin lands in UAE on Middle East visit
ABU DHABI Dec 06: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday landed in the United Arab Emirates for a rare visit outside the former Soviet Union, as Moscow seeks to reassert itself on the global stage. Isolated by the West over the Ukraine war, Putin is courting allies in the Middle East, where he will discuss oil, trade and the Israel-Hamas conflict. —AFP