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A special election in Tennessee's 7th district has put Democrats on track to potentially flip the House of Representatives in the upcoming midterms. Although the Democrats did not win this particular seat, their performance was considered a good showing in a conservative region. The article draws a comparison to a similar special election in Pennsylvania's 18th district in 2018, where Democrats achieved a stunning victory, indicating a potential shift in the House majority. The outcome of the Tennessee election, while not a win for Democrats, suggests they are making progress.

The article discusses how large language models (LLMs) are posing a new challenge to pollsters by being able to answer surveys as humans would, often undetected. This development comes after pollsters have faced several other challenges, including declining response rates due to caller ID and political polarization. The article highlights that LLMs can pass tests designed to check if a respondent is human, potentially turning opinion polls into gibberish.

The article disputes the claim that British citizens are emigrating in large numbers, arguing that emigration is actually lower now than it was five years ago. Despite recent statistics showing a surge in British citizens leaving the country, the article asserts that this narrative is misleading and that the numbers do not support the notion of an 'exodus' or 'brain drain'. The article suggests that the statistics have been misinterpreted by various media outlets, including The Times, Telegraph, and Daily Mail.

The UK government plans to curb jury trials, marking a significant departure from tradition. The move is seen as a desperate response to a disastrous backlog in the courts. The decision is controversial, as jury trials are considered a cornerstone of the British justice system. The article highlights the historical significance of jury trials, citing a landmark case in 1670 where a jury refused to convict two Quakers despite pressure from a judge. The government's plan is likely to face opposition, with many viewing it as an erosion of a fundamental right.

The article discusses the current state of British politics, likening it to a 'slot-machine politics' where elections have become unpredictable and high-stakes gambles rather than a clear reflection of the people's will. The author argues that this unpredictability is a result of various factors, though specific causes are not detailed in the provided content snippet. The piece is part of a series of leader articles from The Economist, touching upon various global issues and political scenarios.

The article argues that Chris Waller, a technocrat, should be chosen as the next chair of the Federal Reserve instead of Kevin Hassett, a partisan. President Trump has expressed his desire for the Fed to cut interest rates faster and has taken steps to influence the Fed's decisions. The article suggests that Hassett, as Trump's trusted economic adviser, would likely follow Trump's wishes and cut interest rates, whereas Waller would make decisions based on technical expertise rather than political considerations.

The article discusses how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming childhood, presenting both opportunities and risks. Toymakers in China are producing AI-enabled toys, while older children are engaging with AI videos and games. AI is also being used in educational settings, with materials created using tools like ChatGPT and chatbot-tutors. The article highlights the potential benefits and drawbacks of this trend, touching on the impact on children's learning and development.

The article discusses Iran's reformists extending a hand to the West by restarting nuclear talks after a brutal year for the regime, including a 12-day bombing campaign by Israel aided by American B-2s that targeted Iran's nuclear sites. The author argues that the West should heed Iran's call to restart nuclear talks. The article highlights the visible scars of the attacks in Tehran, where plaques commemorate the dead, and notes that Iran's homegrown uranium-enrichment programme remains under rubble. The author suggests that the West should take advantage of Iran's offer to restart negotiations.

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The article discusses how leaf blowers have become a divisive issue in the United States, with many municipalities enacting ordinances to restrict or ban their use. Over 160 cities have banned petrol-powered garden tools, according to a consumer watchdog group. The politics surrounding these bans can be complex, and places that implement them should be prepared for potential backlash.

The article features an interview with Sir Keir Starmer, Britain's prime minister, where he discusses the prospect of Labour losing power and the potential consequences of a Conservative or right-wing populist Reform UK government. Starmer expresses a relatively calm attitude towards a potential Conservative government but expresses concern about a right-wing populist government. The article provides insight into Starmer's views and the current political landscape in Britain.

The Economist has developed a new model to analyze Britain's electoral system, revealing the unpredictability of election outcomes due to the first-past-the-post (FPTP) voting system. The model simulates 10,001 elections based on 80 years of data and recent polling, showing that small shifts in vote shares can lead to significant changes in seat allocations. The article highlights the fragmentation of the electorate, with voters abandoning centre parties for challengers like Reform UK and the Greens. The FPTP system, which works best with two dominant parties, is ill-suited for this new multiparty landscape, leading to volatile and confusing election results. The model predicts a wide range of possible outcomes, including a potential landslide victory for Reform UK or a hung parliament. The article argues that FPTP is no longer effective in producing stable governments and that its defenders' arguments are becoming weaker.

The article discusses the unreliability of polls predicting the next British election, specifically those using multilevel regression and post-stratification (MRP) models. It highlights the dangers of treating such polls as if they were exit polls, despite the election being years away. The article argues that it is too early for statistical models to fully grasp voting behavior and that any poll claiming to show results constituency by constituency should be treated with scepticism.

The article discusses the dilemma faced by Republicans regarding the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare, as enhanced subsidies are set to expire at the end of December 2025. Many Republican voters rely on these subsidies for health insurance, and their expiration could lead to 3.5 million people becoming uninsured by 2027. Despite this, Republicans in Congress and the White House have not decided on a solution or acknowledged it as a problem.

The article compares the cases of Nicolás Maduro and Juan Orlando Hernández, two former presidents accused of cocaine smuggling. The author highlights the similarities in their indictments, which include allegations of bribery, clandestine airstrips, and cocaine trafficking. The article also touches on the Monroe Doctrine, which Donald Trump is reviving, and how it is causing confusion among America's neighbors. The author notes that despite the similarities in the charges against Maduro and Hernández, they are not treated equally, with Maduro being more vilified.

The article discusses Syria's transition under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, stating that it has gone better than expected. It highlights that the previous regime, led by Bashar al-Assad, had falsely claimed that Syria would collapse without its rule, and that Assad's refusal to step down and his violent actions led to the civil war. The article praises al-Sharaa's diplomatic efforts but notes that he must do more to reassure Syrians. The piece is part of a series of leader articles from The Economist, discussing various global topics and geopolitical issues.

The article is an interview transcript with Keir Starmer, Britain's prime minister, conducted by The Economist on December 3rd, 2025. The interview has been lightly edited for clarity. The article discusses various topics related to British politics and the prime minister's views on several issues. The tone of the article is informative and neutral, aiming to provide readers with a clear understanding of the prime minister's stance on different matters. The sentiment is generally neutral, reflecting the prime minister's responses to various questions. The primary intent of the article is to inform readers about the prime minister's views and policies.

The article discusses China's rapid advancements in frontier technologies, specifically autonomous vehicles and new drugs, and how these developments will showcase the power of Chinese innovation globally. It highlights that those concerned about China's technological leadership should be aware of these emerging areas beyond electric vehicles, solar panels, and artificial intelligence. The article suggests that China's progress in these fields will have significant implications for the world.

The article discusses how US President Donald Trump has adopted a policy idea from Tony Blair's UK government in the 2000s - investment accounts for babies, now referred to as 'Trump Accounts'. The article explores this unexpected policy inspiration and touches upon various other US-related news and political issues.

The Faroe Islands parliament has voted to legalize abortion until the 12th week of pregnancy, overturning a decades-old law that prohibited abortions in most cases. The decision was made after a heated debate, with MPs voting 17 to 16 in favor of the reform. The new legislation is expected to come into effect on July 1 next year, replacing laws dating back to 1956. Pro-choice campaigners have welcomed the change, arguing that the previous legislation was outdated and impinged on women's rights. The Faroe Islands had among the most restrictive abortion policies in Europe, with abortions only allowed in certain circumstances such as rape, incest, or risk to the health of the pregnant woman. Women often had to travel to Denmark for the procedure, and campaign groups said the change will guarantee access to safe healthcare and protect women's autonomy over their own bodies.

A devastating fire in Hong Kong's Tai Po district killed at least 159 people, sparking widespread grief and anger. University student Miles Kwan launched a petition demanding answers from authorities, but was arrested by national security police on suspicion of sedition. The arrest has stirred public debate, with some defending the authorities' actions as necessary to maintain law and order, while others see it as an attempt to suppress dissent. The Hong Kong government has promised to investigate the fire and support victims, but critics argue that the response has been inadequate and overly focused on maintaining social control.

The Israeli military conducted air strikes in southern Lebanon, less than a day after Israel and Lebanon held their first direct talks in decades. The strikes targeted alleged weapons warehouses belonging to the Iranian-backed Hezbollah group. Residents were told to evacuate areas around the targeted locations, but no casualties were reported. The talks, hosted by the UN peacekeeping mission, Unifil, focused on defusing tension and discussed possible economic cooperation between Israel and Lebanon. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office stated that the disarmament of Hezbollah is obligatory, while Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam emphasized that Lebanon remains 'far' from diplomatic normalization with Israel.

Recovery efforts have begun at Gaza's war-damaged heritage sites, including the Great Omari Mosque and the Pasha's Palace, with Palestinian workers clearing rubble and sorting stones. Despite challenges such as a lack of resources and building materials, local cultural groups are receiving support from international non-governmental organizations. The destruction of cultural heritage sites has been significant, with Unesco verifying damage to 145 sites. Palestinian conservationists are working to recover and preserve ancient manuscripts and artifacts, with some success. The recovery efforts are seen as a small sign of hope for Gazans amidst uncertainty about the future.

Tanzanian activist Mange Kimambi has been blocked from Instagram after mobilizing election protests. Kimambi, who has nearly three million followers, is an outspoken critic of President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Meta, the parent company of Instagram, stated that her accounts were removed for violating their recidivism policy. Kimambi believes the removal was instigated by the Tanzanian government to silence her. The US is reviewing its relationship with Tanzania due to concerns over democratic backsliding and human rights. Kimambi faces charges of economic sabotage and money laundering, which she claims are politically motivated.

New Zealand police have recovered a stolen Fabergé egg locket valued at $19,300 after a 32-year-old man swallowed it during a theft attempt. The man was arrested at Patridge Jewellers in Auckland and has been charged with theft. The locket, set with diamonds and sapphires, was recovered 'in a natural manner' without requiring medical intervention. The suspect is due to appear in court again on December 8.

Scientists have conducted the largest study on the impact of deep-sea mining on seabed life, finding that it causes significant damage, with a 37% reduction in animal numbers and 32% decrease in species diversity in the tracks of mining vehicles. The research, conducted in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone of the Pacific Ocean, discovered over 4,000 animals, 90% of which were new species. While some experts see the findings as a reason to be cautious about deep-sea mining, others believe it shows that current technologies are too damaging to permit large-scale commercial exploration. The study's results have implications for the debate around deep-sea mining, which is seen as a potential source of critical minerals for renewable energy technologies.

Tetsuya Yamagami, the man who assassinated former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, has apologized to Abe's family for the first time. Yamagami, who had previously pleaded guilty to murder, told the court that he felt 'deeply sorry' towards Abe's widow, Akie. He used a homemade gun to shoot Abe during a political campaign event in Nara on July 8, 2022. Yamagami claimed that he attacked Abe because he blamed the ex-prime minister for promoting the Unification Church, which he believed had bankrupted his family. The Unification Church has been controversial due to its teachings and practices, and Abe's ties to the group have been scrutinized. Abe's death sent shockwaves around the world, and his family's sorrow has been acknowledged by Yamagami.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) issued a false alert on Thursday warning of a magnitude 5.9 earthquake in northern Nevada, near Carson City. The alert was sent to people nearly 200 miles away in the San Francisco Bay Area, triggering automatic warnings to drop for cover. However, the agency quickly cancelled the alert and removed the corresponding entry from its website, stating that there was no such earthquake. The USGS attributed the error to its automatic earthquake detection system and has launched an investigation into the malfunction. Multiple law enforcement agencies in the area confirmed that there was no ground movement.

A Haitian gang leader, Joly Germine, was sentenced to life in prison for orchestrating the kidnapping of 17 people, including 16 American missionaries, in 2021. The victims were held for 62 days and were eventually released after some were freed or escaped. Germine was convicted of conspiracy to commit hostage taking and other charges. Prosecutors alleged that he led the '400 Mawozo' gang from prison using unmonitored cellphones and controlled the gang's finances and operations. Germine's lawyers claimed he was not a gang leader and had tried to help his countrymen. The judge noted that Germine showed no remorse or acceptance of responsibility.

Charles Shay, a 19-year-old U.S. Army medic on D-Day, saved lives on Omaha Beach and was awarded the Silver Star. He died at 101, leaving a legacy of love, service, and courage. Shay, a Native American from Maine, continued to serve in the military and later became a vocal advocate for peace, attending D-Day commemorations and sharing his testimony.

The death toll from a fire in a Hong Kong apartment complex has risen to 159, including a 1-year-old baby and 97-year-old. Six people were arrested for allegedly deactivating fire alarms during maintenance work. The fire, which broke out last Wednesday, was fueled by substandard plastic nylon netting and foam boards. Authorities are investigating corruption and negligence related to the renovation work, including the Binzhou Inspection and Testing Center in China that provided a safety inspection certificate for the construction netting. The city will remove all external scaffolding nets from ongoing renovations and test the materials before reinstallation.

The article reports on the Killhouse Academy in Ukraine, where fighters are trained to operate First-Person-View (FPV) drones, a crucial weapon in the ongoing war with Russia. The training involves both computer simulations and practical flight exercises. Instructors emphasize the importance of patience and practice in mastering the drones. The use of drones has revolutionized warfare, accounting for about 80% of military casualties in Ukraine. The US military is also taking notice, with plans to purchase 200,000 drones with lethal capabilities by 2027. Ukrainian instructors see the drone war as an arms race, where adaptability is key to survival.

The USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier and its strike group faced a series of accidents during their deployment from September 2024 to May 2025, including a friendly fire incident, a collision with a merchant ship, and the loss of two F-18 fighter jets. A Navy investigation found that the intense operations against Houthi rebels in Yemen contributed to the accidents, citing a 'significantly stressful deployment' and multiple factors such as failure to adhere to Navy processes. The incidents resulted in approximately $164 million in damages and highlighted the need for the Navy to invest in its personnel to prevent such mishaps in the future.

The United Kingdom and Norway have signed a defense agreement to form an alliance to 'hunt Russian submarines' and protect communication lines in the North Atlantic Ocean. The agreement includes a new joint fleet of anti-submarine warships, comprising eight British vessels and at least five Norwegian vessels, in response to a 30% increase in Russian ships in U.K. waters over the last two years. The pact, called the Lunna House Agreement, will enable the two countries to patrol the North Atlantic together, train in the Arctic, and develop advanced equipment to keep their citizens safe. The naval alliance will primarily monitor a crucial maritime region between Greenland, Iceland, and the U.K., defending underwater cables and pipelines responsible for overseas communications, electricity, and gas transports. The agreement also provides for closer integration between Norwegian and British forces, cooperation on frigates, and joint drone projects in the High North. British forces will have a larger role in Norway's defense, with increased presence and training of British Royal Marines in Norway.

The United States government has increased its reward to $5 million for information leading to the arrest of Giovanni Vicente Mosquera Serrano, the alleged leader of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. The gang is accused of various violent crimes, including murder, human trafficking, and racketeering. The U.S. has been ramping up pressure on Venezuela and its president, Nicolás Maduro, with a significant military presence in the Caribbean and multiple strikes on boats suspected of carrying drugs from Venezuela. The Treasury Department has also sanctioned 11 alleged affiliates of Tren de Aragua, including a Venezuelan entertainer known as 'Rosita,' who is accused of providing material support to the gang.

Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, a Tokyo-born actor known for his roles in 'Mortal Kombat' and 'The Man in the High Castle', has died at 75 due to complications from a stroke in Santa Barbara. Tagawa had a decades-long career in film and TV, appearing in projects such as 'The Last Emperor', 'Pearl Harbor', and 'Memoirs of a Geisha'. He was known for his role as Shang Tsung in the 'Mortal Kombat' films and had a diverse background, being raised mostly in the US South while his father was assigned to US mainland Army bases. Tagawa also developed a martial arts system called Ninjah Sportz and worked with professional athletes.

The article argues that Democrats are being hypocritical in their opposition to President Trump's potential military actions against Venezuela, as they have historically ignored or circumvented the War Powers Resolution. The author contends that the resolution is effectively dead and that presidents have long found ways to bypass congressional approval for military actions. The article suggests that Trump has a legitimate case for taking action against Venezuela due to the influx of illicit drugs, but that he should still seek congressional approval to reassert constitutional order.

The article argues that billionaire George Soros has had a disastrous impact on the US criminal justice system through his funding of progressive district attorneys. Soros has invested heavily in DA races across the country, resulting in 126 progressive prosecutors holding office at some point. The article claims that these prosecutors have implemented radical reforms, such as eliminating cash bail and declining to prosecute minor offenses, which have led to increased crime rates and put more criminals on the streets. The author cites specific examples of violent crimes committed by repeat offenders who were released due to these reforms. The article concludes that Soros' 'movement' has failed and that communities are beginning to turn against criminal justice reform.

Australian influencer Sam Wiedenhofer met 88-year-old Army veteran Ed Bambas at a Michigan supermarket, where Bambas shared his heartbreaking story of losing his pension and wife, leading to a GoFundMe campaign that raised over $1.7 million. Wiedenhofer launched the campaign after filming Bambas, and the two will meet again for a surprise presentation of the funds.

Luana Lopes Lara, 29, co-founder of prediction market firm Kalshi, has become the world's youngest self-made female billionaire with a net worth of $1.3 billion, surpassing Taylor Swift and AI founder Lucy Guo. Lopes Lara, a Brazilian native, studied ballet before pursuing computer science at MIT, where she met her business partner Tarek Mansour. They co-founded Kalshi in 2018, which has achieved a valuation of over $11 billion. The company has received approval from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and has been listed on Forbes 30 Under 30. Kalshi has also partnered with CNN to provide real-time prediction market probabilities.

New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has vowed to stop clearing homeless encampments throughout the city when he takes office, ending a signature initiative pushed by the Adams administration. Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist, stated that the current approach has not been successful in connecting homeless New Yorkers to permanent housing. The Adams administration has faced criticism for its handling of homeless encampments, with a scathing audit finding that roughly 95% of those homeless people were back on the streets shortly after city officials dismantled the camps. Mamdani plans to take a different approach, focusing on connecting homeless individuals to housing rather than simply clearing encampments. However, he did not provide specifics on how he plans to address the issue.

A JetBlue Airbus A320 flight from Cancun to Newark experienced extreme turbulence on October 30, injuring 15 people, and was likely caused by cosmic rays from a distant supernova explosion, according to space expert Clive Dyer. The plane suddenly plunged thousands of feet before pilots regained control and made an emergency landing in Tampa, Florida. Initially, Airbus officials blamed 'intense solar radiation' for the incident, but Dyer disputes this, stating that the radiation levels were not strong enough to impact the flight. Instead, he suggests that high-energy particles from the supernova interacted with the plane's electronics, potentially causing a malfunction.

China's unmanned Moyujian strike helicopter, designed for plateau combat, has completed live-fire target tests at high altitudes and is ready for critical combat testing. The helicopter was showcased at the Aero Asia exhibition in Zhuhai, southern China, where its developer announced the next stage of testing. The Moyujian is a multipurpose medium-sized helicopter tailored for deployment in plateau areas.

The article discusses the controversy surrounding Philippine Trade Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque's suggestion that a budget of 500 pesos (US$8.50) is sufficient for a family of four to host a 'basic' Noche Buena dinner on Christmas Eve. Many Filipinos, struggling with the rising cost of living, have criticized the comment as tone-deaf and unrealistic. The article highlights the difficulties faced by families like Marife Dhoctor's, who earn a meagre income and struggle to make ends meet, let alone afford a festive meal.

Major Hong Kong developers are considering a blanket ban on smoking at construction sites following a deadly fire in Tai Po that killed 159 people. The Real Estate Developers Association (REDA) is gathering views from its members, including major developers such as Sino Land and Sun Hung Kai Properties. At least two companies, Henderson Land Development and another unnamed developer, have already implemented or stepped up measures to enforce a smoking ban on their construction sites. Workers caught smoking may face penalties, including being fired or blacklisted from future projects.

The South China Morning Post's weekly roundup highlights seven significant news stories from the past week, focusing on regional tensions and developments. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has attempted to ease tensions with China over the Taiwan Strait. Other stories include a fire at Hong Kong's Wang Fuk Court estate, the detention of a 6-year-old Chinese boy by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and controversy surrounding the US ambassador in Singapore. The roundup covers various topical issues across Hong Kong, mainland China, and the wider Asia region.

Country Garden, a mainland Chinese developer, has secured a debt lifeline after a Hong Kong court approved its restructuring plans. The plans aim to reduce the company's debt by US$12.7 billion and ease repayment pressure over the next five years. The approval allows the company to extend repayment of US$17.7 billion in offshore debt and gives creditors the option to swap debt for shares or accept new notes. Onshore bondholders have also agreed to extend nine bonds worth 13.8 billion yuan. The restructuring is expected to significantly ease repayment pressure and reduce financing costs. The move marks a new phase for the company amid mainland China's property downturn.

China's waste-to-energy sector is expanding globally due to a domestic economic slowdown, resulting in a surplus of incineration capacity. Chinese companies are now building incinerators in various countries across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas. The industry has shifted from exporting technology to providing a comprehensive package of technology, standards, management, and capital. As of November, Chinese companies were involved in 101 overseas waste incineration projects, up from 79 just six months prior. The waste-to-energy firms generate revenue through fees from local governments and by selling electricity produced from municipal solid waste.

The article discusses the recent tensions between China and Japan following Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's remarks on Taiwan, which Beijing views as a challenge to the post-war international order. Takaichi suggested that Tokyo could respond militarily to a potential attack on Taiwan, marking the first time a sitting Japanese leader has publicly linked a Taiwan contingency with Japan's Self-Defence Forces. Beijing regards Taiwan's restoration as a key outcome of post-WWII treaties and agreements, citing the 1943 Cairo Declaration and the 1945 Potsdam Proclamation, which stated that territories Japan stole from China, including Taiwan, should be restored. The article explains the historical context behind China's concerns and why Takaichi's comments have strained China-Japan relations.

Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, a Tokyo-born actor known for his roles in 'Mortal Kombat' and 'The Man in the High Castle,' has died at 75 due to complications from a stroke. Tagawa had a diverse career spanning multiple films and TV series, including 'The Last Emperor,' 'Pearl Harbor,' and 'Planet of the Apes.' He began his acting career at 36 after working various jobs. Tagawa's manager described him as 'generous, thoughtful, and endlessly committed to his craft.'

The daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, has been accused of luring 17 men, including relatives, to fight for Russia in Ukraine under the guise of lucrative employment contracts. Zuma-Sambudla, a supporter of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has not publicly responded to the accusations. The South African government is investigating the matter, and Zuma-Sambudla faces separate charges of incitement to commit terrorism and public violence. The incident highlights the growing recruitment of Africans into Russian military forces due to a shortage of Russian recruits and the close ties between Moscow and veterans of the African National Congress.

India is attempting to balance its diplomatic relationships with both Russia and the United States during a visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin. India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, is hosting Putin with traditional Indian pomp and ceremony, while also maintaining a deep strategic relationship with the US, a key global rival of Russia. The visit highlights India's delicate diplomatic position as it navigates its ties with both nations.

Netflix is currently the frontrunner in the bidding war for Warner Bros. Discovery's (WBD) studio and streaming assets, with a bid valued at around $28 per share. Paramount has also submitted a bid, closer to $27 per share, but its offer is for the entire company, including CNN and other cable channels. The bidding war has intensified in recent days, with analysts predicting a potentially hostile takeover by Paramount. The deal is also subject to regulatory scrutiny, with concerns about media consolidation and antitrust issues. Netflix's bid is seen as a potential game-changer in the streaming industry, with some analysts predicting that it would become the undisputed global powerhouse of Hollywood.

Taiwan's government has banned the Chinese social media app Xiaohongshu for one year due to its failure to cooperate with authorities over fraud-related concerns. The app, which has 3 million users in Taiwan, has been linked to over 1,700 fraud cases resulting in $7.9 million in losses. The ban is part of a growing trend of governments worldwide expressing alarm over cybersecurity vulnerabilities and disinformation campaigns associated with Chinese apps. Xiaohongshu's refusal to comply with Taiwanese authorities and its potential use in pro-Beijing propaganda or disinformation campaigns were cited as reasons for the ban. The decision has sparked backlash from users and opposition parties, who claim it infringes on freedom of speech.

The article discusses the Siberian Tiger Project, a 30-year conservation effort to save Russia's Amur tigers, also known as Siberian tigers. The project, led by American and Russian scientists, used radiotelemetry collars to track and monitor the tigers, resulting in a significant increase in their population. A new book, 'Tigers Between Empires,' details the project's history, challenges, and successes. The book's author, Jonathan Slaght, highlights the importance of continued conservation efforts to protect the species. The project's collaborative approach and innovative techniques, such as using helicopters to dart and collar tigers, are also showcased.

Approximately 200 homes were evacuated in Derby, England, after police executed a warrant based on intelligence about materials at an address. Two men, Polish nationals in their 40s and 50s, were arrested on suspicion of explosives offenses. The incident is not being investigated as terrorism, and authorities say there is no risk to the surrounding community. Residents were advised to prepare to be out of their homes for 24 hours. A controlled explosion was carried out by the British Army's Explosive Ordnance Division.

Bulgaria's government withdrew its 2026 draft budget after tens of thousands of protesters, mostly young Bulgarians, rallied against tax hikes and alleged corruption in Sofia and other cities. The protests, largely peaceful but with some clashes with police, were led by Gen Z Bulgarians seeking reforms and an end to corruption. Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov vowed to drop the most divisive elements of the budget, including tax and social security increases, and propose a new budget later. Bulgarian President Rumen Radev, who holds a ceremonial position, sided with the opposition and called for the government's resignation and early elections, potentially risking political gridlock and weakening Bulgaria's alliance with NATO and the EU.

The article discusses the varying daily life in Somalia amidst ongoing al-Shabab violence and threats. While the capital city Mogadishu is experiencing economic growth and relative safety, other areas are plagued by terrorism, corruption, and lawlessness. The US has increased airstrikes against terrorists in Somalia, and experts warn that al-Shabab continues to hold significant territory and exert control over civilians. Residents and experts provide mixed assessments of the situation, with some noting improvements in daily life, while others highlight the persistent threats and dangers.

Russia has extended the prison sentence of US citizen Robert Gilman, a former Marine, to 10 years after he was found guilty of assaulting prison staff. Gilman was initially arrested in 2022 for being drunk and disorderly on a train and was sentenced to 3.5 years for assaulting a police officer. Since then, he has faced multiple charges and convictions, including attacking prison guards and inspectors, which have lengthened his prison term. Gilman's lawyer stated that he would not appeal the latest verdict, and he is among at least nine Americans still imprisoned in Russia.

Two suspected Russian spies allegedly entered the UK on cargo ships and visited areas near key military bases and critical government infrastructure. The men used ports in Torquay, Middlesbrough, and Grangemouth, exploiting commercial shipping routes to evade detection. A UK defense source linked them to President Vladimir Putin's military and intelligence networks. NATO officials confirmed that Russian operatives have been using non-suspicious cargo vessels to move personnel discreetly. The suspected spies monitored and tested European ports to find weaknesses, particularly around potential future UK weapons factories.

Jim Cramer, host of 'Mad Money', expressed his confusion and dislike for Recursion Pharmaceuticals' stock performance during his 'Lightning Round' segment, stating that the stock 'has been horrendous' and that he doesn't recommend such stocks.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) cut its key policy rate by 25 basis points to 5.25% as expected, citing 'weakness in some key economic indicators.' The economy expanded 8.2% from July to September, outpacing expectations, while inflation remains subdued. The RBI also announced plans to buy 1 trillion rupees ($11 billion) of government bonds and carry out a three-year, $5 billion buy-sell swap of the U.S. dollar and the Indian rupee. The rate cut is seen as timely given the economy's strong growth, but the outlook remains uncertain due to external factors such as tariffs imposed by the U.S. The Indian rupee has weakened against the dollar, and the RBI's actions aim to ensure adequate liquidity and facilitate monetary transmission.

European stocks are expected to open higher on Friday as investors await the Federal Reserve's policy decision next week, with a high likelihood of a quarter-point interest rate cut. The market is also focused on developments in U.S.-led negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent statements have heightened tensions, with the European Union considering using frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine. Corporate news includes Swiss Re's announcement of its 2026 financial targets.

Taiwan has banned the Chinese social media app Xiaohongshu, also known as RedNote, for one year due to concerns over fraud risks. The app has been linked to approximately 1,700 fraud cases, resulting in financial losses of over $7.9 million since 2024. Taiwanese authorities have blocked access to the app, urged international platforms like Google to cease publishing Xiaohongshu advertisements, and reminded the public not to download or use the app. The ban is seen as a measure to protect Taiwanese citizens from potential online shopping fraud. The opposition Kuomintang party has criticized the move, describing it as a restriction on internet freedom. Xiaohongshu failed cybersecurity tests and ignored requests from Taiwanese authorities for corrective measures, leading to the ban.

Tehran, Iran's capital city, is facing a severe water crisis with its reservoirs almost empty, prompting the government to ration water and consider evacuation. The crisis is attributed to a combination of factors including climate change, population growth, and mismanagement of natural resources. The city's population has doubled since 1979, leading to a quadrupling of water consumption. Experts warn that the situation is not unique to Tehran, with other cities like Cape Town and London also at risk of water scarcity. Professor Kaveh Madani, a former deputy head of Iran's environment department, blames 'chronic mismanagement' for the crisis, while government ministers point to climate change, water leaks, and the recent conflict with Israel.

Australia is set to introduce one of the world's toughest social media bans for children under 16, affecting platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. The ban has sparked debate, with some arguing it will protect children from cyberbullying and addiction, while others believe it infringes on parental rights and will be ineffective as children find ways to circumvent it. The law has been campaigned for by Emma Mason, whose daughter Tilly took her own life after suffering online abuse. The ban allows children to use messaging services and has been met with mixed reactions from teenagers, some of whom are concerned about losing their online presence and connections.

A stolen Fabergé pendant, one of only 50 ever made, was recovered by police after being swallowed by a suspect. The pendant, crafted from gold and encrusted with diamonds and sapphires, was inspired by the 1983 film Octopussy. The 32-year-old suspect was arrested at a jeweler's in Auckland on November 28 and was monitored by police for six days until the pendant was naturally passed. The recovered pendant was found with its price tag intact, showing it was on sale for £14,250.

The article reports on the second Test match between England and Australia in The Ashes series, where England's Jofra Archer strikes, causing Australia to lose their second wicket. The match is ongoing, with England three wickets down. The article is a live update from Sky News, providing real-time coverage of the game.

The article discusses the growing Chinese influence in Laos, particularly with the Laos-China Railway (LCR) and its impact on local tourism and economy. The LCR has brought an influx of Chinese tourists, businesses, and investments, transforming towns like Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang. However, the benefits have been unevenly distributed, with local businesses struggling to compete with Chinese-owned enterprises. The article highlights concerns about Laos' heavy debt burden and the potential risks of relying heavily on Chinese investment.

The article discusses how climate change is affecting Bangladesh, particularly in the low-lying coastal regions, causing recurring disasters that cripple livelihoods and displace people. Many young climate migrants, like 24-year-old Md Emran Hosain, are forced to leave their homes and families to find work in other countries, such as Singapore. The article highlights the devastating impact of climate change on Bangladesh, with rising sea levels, storms, and floods eroding land, breaching embankments, and rendering farming and fishing untenable. The government predicts that one in every seven Bangladeshis will be displaced due to climate change by 2050, with many migrating to cities or abroad.

The article discusses how Israel's settlement surge in the West Bank is displacing Palestinians. It tells the story of Mr. Muhammad Abdulrahman, a 58-year-old man who was evicted from his home by Israeli settlers and soldiers. The article highlights the growing tensions between Israeli settlers and Palestinian residents in the West Bank, with Israel rejecting claims that its settlements in the occupied territory violate international law.

The US Supreme Court has revived a redrawn Texas electoral map designed to add more Republicans to the US House of Representatives, boosting President Donald Trump's quest for his party to keep control of Congress in the 2026 midterm elections. The map, which was blocked by a lower court due to concerns of racial discrimination, could flip as many as five currently Democratic-held US House seats to Republicans. The Supreme Court's decision was made despite dissent from its three liberal justices, who argued that the lower court's ruling was disrespected and that the new map would place many Texas citizens in electoral districts because of their race.

President Trump has hired a new architecture firm, Shalom Baranes Associates, to oversee the design of a new ballroom at the White House, following disagreements with the original designer, McCrery Architects. The project has been marred by controversy, with Trump insisting on increasing the size and scope of the ballroom on a short timeline, leading to sloppy plans. The new firm has experience designing government buildings and has been praised for its commitment to historic preservation, despite Trump's expressed dislike for the Brutalist architectural style. McCrery Architects will remain involved as a 'valuable consultant'.

Warner Bros. Discovery is in exclusive talks with Netflix to sell its movie and television studios and HBO Max streaming service. The deal would create a media colossus with over 300 million subscribers and significant leverage over theater owners and entertainment-industry unions. The acquisition would mark the first time a major legacy studio has been sold to a Silicon Valley competitor. The deal is subject to regulatory approval and has raised concerns about monopolistic control and the impact on theatrical exhibition.

Satellite images reveal the Sudanese city of El Fasher is a 'slaughterhouse' after RSF massacres, with up to 150,000 residents missing and at least 60,000 killed. The city, once home to 1.5 million people, is now desolate with large piles of bodies awaiting burial or cremation. The RSF has sealed off the city, preventing UN investigators and humanitarian organizations from accessing it.

The US is considering broader sanctions on the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) as ceasefire efforts falter. The conflict has killed 40,000 people and displaced 14 million. The US envoy, Massad Boulos, has been trying to persuade the parties to accept a ceasefire, but with little success. Norway is preparing to host talks on restoring civilian government in Sudan. The US may broaden sanctions against the warring parties and enforce the UN arms embargo on Darfur. The conflict has been fueled by external actors, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the UAE, who have supported different sides.

French President Emmanuel Macron concluded his state visit to China with a trip to Chengdu, where he met Chinese President Xi Jinping. The visit featured a mix of diplomatic discussions and cultural exchanges, including a visit to the Dujiangyan dam and a meeting with table tennis stars. Macron urged Xi to work towards ending the war in Ukraine and to correct trade imbalances between China and France/Europe. The two leaders also signed 12 cooperation agreements on topics such as population ageing, nuclear energy, and panda conservation. Xi announced that China will provide $100 million to help Gaza's humanitarian crisis.

Luigi Mangione, accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, is having a court hearing where his lawyers argue that his statements to police and evidence found in his backpack should be excluded from the trial. Mangione had told police he didn't want to talk, but they continued questioning him before reading his rights. The defense claims that the statements and evidence were obtained improperly and should not be used in the trial.