Global News Highlights: Politics, Crime, and More

A federal appeals court has ruled that the 'Alligator Alcatraz' immigration detention centre in Florida can remain open, overturning a lower court order that required its closure. The centre, located in the Everglades, a Unesco World Heritage Site, was established on a virtually abandoned airport in sensitive wetlands. Environmental groups and a Native American tribe had argued that the facility should have undergone federal environmental reviews before being opened. The appeals court concluded that state and federal officials would likely succeed in showing that the facility was not subject to the National Environmental Policy Act as it had not received federal funding. The decision was welcomed by Florida's Governor Ron DeSantis and the US Department of Homeland Security, while environmental groups expressed disappointment.

A funicular crash in Lisbon, Portugal has resulted in 16 deaths and over 20 injuries. A three-year-old German boy was among the survivors, while his father reportedly died. The cause of the crash is still unclear, and an investigation has been launched by the public transport operator, Carris. The incident has shocked the local community, with many calling for a thorough investigation. The funicular, a popular tourist attraction, will remain closed until technical inspections are carried out.

The Kremlin has rejected Western security guarantees for Ukraine, specifically the deployment of foreign troops, following a pledge by 26 Western allies to provide security guarantees. The French president, Emmanuel Macron, announced that the allies had committed to deploying troops 'by land, sea or air' to Ukraine after a ceasefire is agreed. However, Russia's Vladimir Putin has made clear that no Western forces should be deployed to Ukraine and has insisted that Russia should be one of the countries acting as 'guarantors'. The Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky, has said that he had spoken to US President Donald Trump about 'maximum protection for Ukraine's skies'. The prospect of a deal to end the fighting has dimmed since Putin met Trump in Alaska last month.

Sweden has accused Russia of being behind a significant rise in GPS signal jamming over the Baltic Sea, which has raised concerns for aviation in the region. The Swedish Transport Agency reported 733 incidents in 2025, up from 55 in 2023, and said the source of the interference was traced to Russian territory. Other European nations have also accused Russia of jamming, which Moscow denies. The issue has been raised with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which expressed great concern and demanded that Russia cease the disturbances. The jamming has affected not only aviation but also shipping, and has been linked to a potential Kremlin strategy to sow disorder and undermine European security.

A mass stabbing occurred in the remote indigenous community of Hollow Water First Nation in Manitoba, Canada, resulting in the death of an 18-year-old woman and injuring seven others. The suspect, 26-year-old Tyrone Simard, died in a vehicle collision with a police officer while fleeing the scene. The police officer was critically injured but is expected to make a full recovery. The motive behind the attack is still unknown, but investigators have stated that the victims were all known to each other in the community. The incident has shaken the community of a few hundred people, with the chief of Hollow Water First Nation expressing condolences to the families affected. The attack coincides with the third anniversary of a similar mass stabbing in Saskatchewan.

A funicular crash in Lisbon, Portugal, has resulted in 16 deaths, including an American citizen, and injured 21 people, with many foreign visitors among the victims. The Elevador da Gloria funicular derailed and crashed into a building, prompting an investigation into the cause. The disaster has left Portugal reeling, with the government declaring a national day of mourning and Lisbon's mayor announcing three days of mourning. The funicular, a popular tourist attraction, has been in operation for over a century and is one of several in Lisbon. Speculation about the cause includes a possible cable rupture, but officials have not confirmed this.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un attended China's military parade on September 3, 2025, accompanied by his 12- or 13-year-old daughter Kim Ju Ae, who made her first known trip outside the country. Experts believe Kim Ju Ae's appearance may signal that she is being considered as a potential successor to her father. Kim Jong Un's visit to Beijing was seen as a significant political win, showcasing his relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping and sending a message of unity against the West. The visit marked the first face-to-face contact between Kim and Xi in six years, normalizing relations between North Korea and China.

An 18th-century Italian painting, 'Portrait of a Lady' by Giuseppe Ghislandi, looted by Nazis during WWII, has been recovered in Argentina. The painting was rediscovered after appearing in an online real estate listing posted by the daughter of Friedrich Kadgien, a Nazi officer accused of stealing it. Argentine authorities raided the homes of Kadgien's daughters, seizing the painting and other artworks suspected of being stolen. The painting is valued at $50,000 and is to be returned to its rightful owners, the heirs of Dutch-Jewish art collector Jacques Goudstikker.

The remains of U.S. Navy Reserve Seaman 2nd Class Jerome M. Mullaney, who was killed during World War II, have been identified 80 years after his death. Mullaney was assigned to the USS Glennon, which participated in D-Day and struck an underwater mine off the coast of France. The ship sank after being hit by a German artillery barrage, and Mullaney was declared missing. His remains were recovered in 1957, but were not identified at the time. In 2021, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency began new efforts to account for the sailors who died aboard the USS Glennon, and Mullaney's remains were identified in March 2025 using DNA analysis and other research. Mullaney's family will now be able to hold a funeral and bury him near his parents in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, announced that the US is designating two Ecuadorian gangs, Los Lobos and Los Choneros, as foreign terrorist organizations. This move is part of the Trump administration's efforts to combat cartels and drug trafficking in the region. The designation allows the US to work with Ecuador to crack down on these groups, including killing them and taking action against their properties and banking accounts in the US. Rubio defended a recent US military strike against a Venezuelan drug-running ship, saying it posed an 'immediate threat' to the US. The strike has raised concerns in Latin America about US military intervention and gunboat diplomacy. Ecuador has been plagued by violence since the COVID-19 pandemic, with drug traffickers expanding operations in the country.

In an interview with CBS News, former President Donald Trump expressed his commitment to pursuing a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine. Despite ongoing conflict and uncertainty about potential face-to-face talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Trump remains optimistic. He described his approach to diplomatic negotiations as bringing key leaders together to broker agreements in real-time, often with his guidance. Trump also claimed credit for ending several conflicts during his presidency and suggested he deserves the Nobel Peace Prize, although he stated he is not seeking it. Trump's comments come as Russia continues to attack Ukraine, with a recent drone and missile attack killing at least 15 people, including four children. Trump expressed unhappiness with the violence but remains committed to finding a peaceful resolution.

Argentina's President Javier Milei is betting big on copper to revitalize the country's economy. Milei's administration has introduced the Large Investment Incentive Regime (RIGI) to attract large-scale investors, with 20 projects worth over $30 billion seeking entry, mostly in mining. Major players like BHP, Glencore, and Rio Tinto are investing in Argentina's copper and lithium potential. Analysts estimate that the country's copper projects could represent a $47 billion opportunity by 2040. However, policy consistency and social license are crucial to determining whether this is Argentina's mining moment or another economic mirage.

OpenAI is developing an AI-centered jobs platform and certification program to expand AI literacy and connect job candidates with companies. The platform, expected to launch by mid-2026, may compete with Microsoft's LinkedIn. OpenAI will also introduce a certification program through its 'OpenAI Academy' online learning platform, aiming to certify 10 million Americans by 2030. The initiatives come amid concerns about AI's impact on the labor market and are part of OpenAI's commitment to the White House's efforts to expand AI literacy.

The article discusses the growing trend of search funds, an investment vehicle that allows individuals to raise capital to buy and operate small or medium-sized private companies. This model is gaining popularity among millennials and Gen Zers who are looking to become entrepreneurs by acquiring existing businesses rather than starting from scratch. The article highlights the benefits of search funds, including lower risk and the potential for high returns, citing a Stanford Graduate School of Business study that found an internal rate of return of 35.1%. It also features interviews with search fund investors and entrepreneurs, including Jason Jackson, who used a search fund to acquire and grow a dental practice business.

The stock market was relatively flat on Thursday as investors awaited the release of the August nonfarm payrolls report on Friday. Stock futures were little changed, with Dow Jones Industrial Average futures up 0.01%, S&P 500 futures virtually unchanged, and Nasdaq 100 futures gaining 0.2%. The S&P 500 had closed at a new high on Thursday, driven by an afternoon boost in risk appetite. Investors are hoping the nonfarm payrolls report will support the Federal Reserve's case for a rate cut at its September policy meeting. Economists forecast nonfarm payrolls to have expanded by 75,000 in August. Meanwhile, Broadcom's strong earnings and upbeat forecast boosted its shares by more than 4% in extended trading. Other stocks making big moves after hours included Lululemon, DocuSign, and Amneal Pharmaceuticals.

President Donald Trump has warned of imposing 'fairly substantial' tariffs on semiconductor imports from companies that do not shift production to the U.S., but signaled that companies like Apple that invest in the U.S. would be safe. Trump made the comments during a dinner at the White House with tech CEOs, including Apple CEO Tim Cook and Meta's Mark Zuckerberg. The U.S. has been working to onshore its semiconductor supply chain, and major semiconductor companies like TSMC and Samsung Electronics have committed hundreds of billions of dollars to building plants in the U.S. Trump offered few details on the tariffs and exceptions, but stated that companies that invest in the U.S. will not face tariffs.

The article discusses China's dominance in the rare earth industry and whether the West can reduce its dependence on China for these critical materials. Rare earths are essential for various high-tech products, including electric cars, wind turbines, and advanced military equipment. While China currently controls a significant portion of the global rare earth supply chain, the article argues that its power is not as absolute as it seems. The West has various options to mitigate China's near-monopoly, including developing alternative supply chains and investing in research and development.

The article discusses how Venezuelans are reacting to rising tensions between the US and their government, led by President Nicolas Maduro. Despite the US deploying warships to the Caribbean and a recent strike on a Venezuelan speedboat, ordinary Venezuelans are trying to maintain their daily lives, with many fishermen continuing to ply their trade. The economic situation in Venezuela remains dire, with millions earning barely enough to survive. Maduro has responded to the US actions by mobilizing militiamen and strengthening ties with China. The article also touches on the government's repressive measures against dissenting voices and opposition leaders.

The article reports on the tributes paid to the late fashion designer Giorgio Armani following his death at the age of 91. High-profile figures from the fashion world, politics, entertainment, and pop culture have celebrated Armani's life and legacy. Tributes were led by Italian fashion giants, including Donatella Versace, Miuccia Prada, and Raf Simons, who praised Armani's impact on fashion and his elegance. Celebrities such as Julia Roberts and Leonardo DiCaprio also paid tribute to Armani, recalling their personal experiences with the designer. The Italian government, including Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and President Sergio Mattarella, recognized Armani's contributions to Italian fashion and culture.

The US government has revoked authorization for Taiwanese and South Korean chipmakers TSMC, SK Hynix, and Samsung to send American technology-powered equipment to their plants in China. The move, effective next year, could disrupt production and threaten the survival of these plants. The US Commerce Department said the policy change closes an export control 'loophole' and intends to grant licenses to allow firms to continue operations in China but not expand capacity or upgrade technology. Analysts worry about potential disruptions and the impact on the global chip supply chain. The decision highlights the US's significant influence over the global chip industry and the challenges faced by Asian chipmakers in balancing their operations in China with US regulations.

Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has left the country on his private jet just days before a court ruling that could see him imprisoned. Thaksin, 76, spent 15 years in self-imposed exile after being ousted from office in a 2006 military coup. His departure has raised speculation that he might not return to face the verdict. The ruling Pheu Thai party, which Thaksin founded, was expected to lose power as parliament was set to pick a new prime minister. Thaksin's daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, was removed from office a week ago following an ethics probe. Thaksin has denied making a deal with the country's powerful conservative and royalist establishment for his return in exchange for a reduced jail term or pardon. The Supreme Court verdict will decide whether Thaksin's time in hospital counted as time served, and if the court rules against him, he could be sent to prison.

US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are both placing blame on Europe for the stalled Ukraine peace efforts. Trump called on Europe to do more, specifically to stop purchasing Russian oil and to pressure China to stop funding Russia's war efforts. However, Trump's stance is seen as hypocritical as he is not willing to sanction China himself. Meanwhile, Russia is trying to drive a wedge between NATO allies and Ukraine's allies are working on security guarantees for Ukraine after a potential peace deal. There has been some progress on this front with 26 countries pledging contributions to a potential peacekeeping force.

President Donald Trump is expected to sign an executive order renaming the Pentagon, currently known as the Department of Defense, to the Department of War. This move has been previewed by Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in recent days. The name change is a reversal of the 1949 renaming under President Harry Truman, which merged various military departments into the National Military Establishment, later renamed the Department of Defense. The effort is part of a broader initiative by Hegseth to change the names of military bases and ships. The change is expected to be implemented through an executive order, although it is unclear how this will be done without an act of Congress, which was required for the previous name change.

The US State Department has imposed sanctions on three Palestinian human rights groups (Al Haq, Al Mezan Center for Human Rights, and Palestinian Centre for Human Rights) for asking the International Criminal Court to investigate and arrest Israeli leaders over war crimes in Gaza. The groups had filed a lawsuit with the ICC in November 2023, accusing Israel of airstrikes, siege, forced displacement, and denial of necessities. The ICC issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in November 2024. The US sanctions are seen as a protection of Israel and a disregard for international law and human rights. The move has been criticized by Amnesty International and the Palestinian human rights groups themselves.

An 8-year-old Gazan boy named Abdul Rahim Muhammad Hamden, also known as 'Abboud,' was reported to have been killed by Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) in May. However, he was found alive and healthy with his mother in the Gaza Strip after a weeks-long search led by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). A former GHF contractor, Anthony Aguilar, a retired Green Beret Lt. Col., had claimed to have witnessed the boy being shot by IDF forces. The GHF launched an investigation and eventually tracked down Abboud's mother and son using facial recognition software and biometric data. Abboud and his mother were safely extracted from the Gaza Strip and relocated to a safe location.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has confirmed that it controls 40% of Gaza City and is preparing to seize the entire area. The IDF has been advancing into eastern suburbs, with residents reporting heavy bombardments and tank movements. The operation, known as 'Operation Gideon9s Chariots,' aims to achieve several objectives, including the return of hostages and the dismantling of Hamas' rule. At least 53 Palestinians were killed on Thursday, mostly in Gaza City. Israeli officials claim 70,000 people have fled Gaza City, while Palestinian authorities dispute this number. The conflict has resulted in significant destruction and displacement, with concerns about the humanitarian impact.

Jazz musician David Hermlin was excluded from European jazz festivals after wearing a yellow pin in support of hostages held in Gaza and asking questions at a pro-Palestinian meeting. He claims his actions were misinterpreted as intimidating and that he is being unfairly targeted for his expression of empathy. Hermlin believes that music should unite people, not divide them, and vows to continue playing despite the backlash.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping were caught on a hot mic discussing organ transplants and the possibility of living up to 150 years old. A top U.S. transplant specialist, Dr. James Markmann, dismissed their claims as unfounded, stating that there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that organ transplants can promote immortality or extend human lifespan to 150 years. The conversation took place during a military parade in Beijing, where Putin and Xi were in attendance alongside North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Putin has shown interest in anti-aging research in the past and has backed the creation of a research institute focused on cellular rejuvenation and organ regeneration. Dr. Markmann emphasized that the focus should be on ethics, equity, and access to lifesaving organ transplants rather than immortality.

The Trump administration is taking a hard stance against drug traffickers, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio announcing that President Donald Trump wants to 'wage war' against narco-terrorists. Rubio made the statement during a joint news conference with Ecuador's foreign minister, where he also announced the designation of two Ecuadorian cartels, Los Choneros and Los Lobos, as foreign terrorist organizations. The US is committing $13.7 million to combat drugs and crime in Ecuador, as well as providing $6 million worth of unmanned aircraft vehicle systems for the Ecuadorian Navy. Rubio emphasized that the designation allows the US and Ecuador to share intelligence for potentially lethal operations against the cartels. The move is seen as a warning to Venezuelan cartels, with Rubio criticizing the United Nations for suggesting that Venezuela is not involved in the drug trade.

The Trump administration has taken an unprecedented approach against cartels by conducting a U.S. military strike against a Tren de Aragua narco-terrorist vessel carrying drugs from Venezuela. The strike, which killed 11 members of the cartel, marks a shift from previous seize and apprehend operations. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the President will wage war on narco-terrorist organizations, arguing that the previous policy doesn't work. The strike is seen as a clear message to cartels that the Trump administration is taking a hard new approach to countering the international drug trade.

FIFA will use dynamic pricing for the 2026 World Cup tickets, which will be sold in three phases. The tournament will be hosted across the US, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Ticket prices will vary according to demand, with prices for group stage matches starting at $60 and later stage matches reaching up to $6,730. Fans are warned to be cautious of unofficial ticket websites and to apply for tickets as early as possible. The ticket sales process will involve a Visa presale draw, an early ticket draw, and a random selection draw. Hospitality tickets will also be available, with prices ranging from $3,500 to $73,200 per person. Fans will need to secure visas to travel to the host countries, and FIFA has warned that ticket holders who fail to obtain necessary visas will not be entitled to compensation.

Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has warned that Moscow may seize 'valuables of the British Crown' in response to the UK using frozen Russian assets to fund military support for Ukraine. The UK announced a £1bn package for Kyiv's war effort, paid for by frozen Russian assets. Medvedev, a key ally of Vladimir Putin, also referred to British Foreign Secretary David Lammy as 'the English idiot' and threatened to take more Ukrainian land. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump emphasized that Europe must put pressure on China to stop funding Russia's war efforts. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with European leaders in Paris to discuss long-term military support and security guarantees for Ukraine.

The article is a tribute to the late Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani, highlighting his most iconic designs worn by celebrities on the red carpet and on screen. Armani's career spanned decades, with notable collaborations with actors and directors, including Richard Gere in American Gigolo and Martin Scorsese in Goodfellas. The article showcases Armani's influence on fashion, from Diane Keaton's custom double-breasted jacket at the 1978 Academy Awards to Lady Gaga's galactic-inspired dress at the 2010 Grammy Awards. Armani's designs were worn by numerous celebrities, including Julia Roberts, Jodie Foster, Beyonce, and Demi Moore, cementing his legacy as a master designer.

The article reports on the death of legendary fashion designer Giorgio Armani at the age of 91. Armani, an Italian billionaire, died at home surrounded by his family. The fashion world and show business have paid tribute to him, with many describing him as a 'giant' and a 'master of his craft'. Armani was known for his influence on red carpet fashion and his iconic 'Armani suit'. He worked on over 200 films, including Casino and The Wolf of Wall Street, and was awarded the French Legion of Honour and Italian Order of Merit for Labour. His fashion house has announced a funeral chamber at Milan's Armani Teatro for people to pay tribute.

A funicular crash in Lisbon, Portugal, has claimed 16 lives and injured 23 people. The incident occurred during evening rush hour on Wednesday, with the top carriage derailing and crashing into a building. The victims include five Portuguese nationals, two Koreans, and one Swiss national, with the identities of the remaining eight fatalities not yet released. An investigation has been launched into the cause of the crash, with speculation surrounding a possible cable malfunction. The Gloria funicular, a national monument and popular tourist attraction, has been closed until further notice.

Donna Adelson, a 75-year-old dental matriarch, was convicted of masterminding the 2014 murder-for-hire killing of her ex-son-in-law, Dan Markel, a Florida State University law professor. Adelson was reprimanded by the judge for her emotional outburst in court after the verdict was read. The prosecution alleged that Adelson orchestrated the killing due to her hatred for Markel, who was in a contentious custody battle with her daughter Wendi. Adelson's attorneys claimed there was no evidence linking her to the crime and attempted to pin the plot on her adult children. The murder was carried out by two men hired by Adelson's son, Charlie Adelson, and his girlfriend, Katherine Magbanua. Several individuals involved in the plot have already been convicted and sentenced to life in prison or lengthy prison terms.

The Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Dallas Cowboys 24-20 in their season opener, with Jalen Hurts rushing for two touchdowns. The game was marked by controversy, including the ejection of Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter for spitting on Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. The Eagles' victory came despite a 65-minute weather delay due to lightning and a strong Cowboys comeback attempt. Hurts and Saquon Barkley led the Eagles' offense, while Prescott and CeeDee Lamb were notable for the Cowboys. The win was a positive start for the defending Super Bowl champions, who will look to build on their momentum in the coming weeks.

Philadelphia Eagles defensive lineman Jalen Carter was ejected from the season opener against the Dallas Cowboys just six seconds into the game after spitting on Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. Carter received an unsportsmanlike penalty and was escorted off the field by Eagles chief security officer Dom DiSandro. The incident shocked NBC broadcasters Mike Tirico and Cris Collinsworth, who noted that Carter's absence would significantly impact the game. Carter later vowed that the incident wouldn't happen again. The ejection was described as a 'disqualifiable foul' by referee Shawn Smith, who stated that it was a 'non-football act.' The chaotic opening sequence began with Eagles fullback Ben VanSumeren sustaining a knee injury while defending the kickoff.

The price of gold has increased by 42% in the past year, making it a profitable investment for those who purchased Costco gold bars. Experts attribute the surge in value to inflation concerns, geopolitical tension, and expectations of Federal Reserve rate cuts. While selling the gold bars can result in a significant profit, investors should be aware that they will not receive the full spot price and will have to pay taxes on their gains.

Bryan Hooper Sr., a Minnesota father, was wrongfully convicted of murdering 77-year-old Ann Prazniak in 1998 and spent 27 years in prison. Chalaka Young, the key witness who testified against Hooper Sr., has now confessed to the crime, admitting she was 'soul sick' with guilt. Young's confession led to Hooper Sr.'s exoneration and release from Stillwater Correctional Facility. Hooper Sr. was initially sentenced to three life sentences with the possibility of parole after 30 years. Young had implicated Hooper Sr. in the crime after being threatened with murder charges herself, but later recanted and confessed to the murder while serving an unrelated sentence in a Georgia prison.

Former First Lady Melania Trump addressed a gathering at the White House, warning about the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and the need for responsible management. She emphasized the importance of guiding AI development, likening it to parenting children. The event highlighted her focus on digital issues and tech-savviness, contrasting with her husband Donald Trump's more casual approach to AI. Melania Trump has been involved in various AI-related initiatives, including a nationwide AI challenge for students and a task force on AI.

European leaders are adopting a long-term strategy to engage President Trump in efforts to end the war in Ukraine, despite initial skepticism about his ability to broker a quick peace deal. They are working on preparing for a post-war future, including security guarantees for Ukraine, and trying to show Trump that Putin is not committed to serious negotiations. European leaders are criticizing Putin's actions and emphasizing the need for a unified European response. They are also seeking to reassure Ukraine that they will provide security guarantees to prevent future conflicts.

The article discusses the factors influencing America's young voters in the 2024 US presidential election. It highlights their disillusionment with the current state of the economy, education, and job prospects. The youth are attracted to Kamala Harris's message of change, with polls showing she has a significant lead over Donald Trump among young voters. The article also features interviews with young voters, showcasing their diverse perspectives on the candidates and their policies.

The article discusses the last generation of people who experienced the India-Pakistan Partition in 1947 and their memories of their homeland. The Partition led to one of the largest mass migrations in human history, with over 15 million people displaced and at least one million killed. The article follows the stories of two individuals, Vikram Kalra and Reena Varma, who were forced to flee their homes in Lahore and Rawalpindi, respectively, and have been unable to return. The article highlights the ongoing impact of the Partition on the people and politics of the region, including the territorial dispute over Kashmir and the difficulties faced by those trying to revisit their ancestral homes.

The article discusses the scam hub in Shwe Kokko, Myanmar, on the border with Thailand, which has been a major center for transnational criminal networks involved in online scamming. Despite a crackdown in February that saw over 9,000 workers repatriated, the scam operations appear to be continuing, with the use of alternative power sources and internet connectivity. The article highlights the scale of the problem, with an estimated 350,000 people involved in the scam industry in countries such as Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos, generating between $50 billion and $75 billion annually. Experts say that corruption within some governments and local militia in the region has contributed to the growth of the fraud industry.

The COP30 Hotel in Belem, Brazil, has zero bookings two months before the UN climate conference, due to high initial rates. Organisers are scrambling to find alternative accommodation in private homes, universities, and schools. Delegates have urged Brazil to limit accommodation costs, which have soared. The conference is expected to attract 50,000 people, but only 68 of 198 participating countries have secured reservations. The high prices have raised concerns that the conference could be 'the most exclusive in history'.

The article discusses the plight of the last surviving comfort women in Asia, who were forced into providing sexual services to Japanese Imperial Army troops during World War II. The number of survivors is dwindling, and they are now mostly in their 90s. The issue continues to be a major historical grievance between South Korea and Japan, with South Korea being the most vocal in demanding justice for the survivors. The article highlights the ongoing efforts of survivors and their supporters to seek closure and justice, including weekly demonstrations and the installation of comfort women statues around the world.