In other news

A recent police raid in Rio de Janeiro's Alemão and Penha neighbourhoods, aimed at dismantling the Comando Vermelho (Red Command) gang, has been criticized for its high death toll and questioned effectiveness. Despite the arrest of scores of suspected gang members and the seizure of over 100 rifles, the gang's leader remains at large, and residents report that the operation has done little to loosen the gang's grip on their communities. The raid, which killed 121 people, including four police officers, has sparked controversy, with rights groups labelling it a 'massacre' and the governor defending it as a 'success'. The gang's control over the community extends beyond drug trafficking to services like gas, cable TV, and transport, with harsh punishments for transgressions.

French-Algerian novelist Boualem Sansal was pardoned by Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and released from prison after being detained for nearly a year. The release followed a direct appeal from German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, who has good relations with Tebboune. Sansal, 81, was sentenced to five years in prison for undermining national unity with remarks questioning Algeria's borders. The diplomatic crisis surrounding his detention had strained relations between France and Algeria, with both countries engaging in tit-for-tat expulsions. French President Emmanuel Macron thanked Tebboune for the 'act of humanity' and praised the diplomatic efforts that led to Sansal's release.

Germany's coalition government has agreed on a new military service plan to boost troop numbers to 260,000 by 2035. The plan includes mandatory questionnaires for 18-year-old men and medical screenings from 2027. The decision aims to create Europe's strongest conventional army amid concerns about potential Russian aggression. The plan is expected to be voted on by lawmakers by the end of 2025, with some lawmakers opposing mandatory service. Defence spending in Germany has increased following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, with companies like Rheinmetall benefiting from the surge in demand for military equipment.

Kim Kardashian's shapewear brand Skims has reached a $5 billion valuation after securing $225 million in new funding. The company plans to expand its physical retail presence and global reach. Skims has grown rapidly since its launch in 2019, broadening its product line beyond shapewear to loungewear and other fashion categories. The brand faces intense competition from rivals like Lululemon and has been involved in controversies, including criticism over its initial name and a product that sparked debate online. Despite this, Skims has amassed a large following among influencers and celebrities, and expects to exceed $1 billion in sales this year.

Kenya's Foreign Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi has stated that over 200 Kenyans are fighting for Russia in the Ukraine conflict, with some being former members of Kenya's security forces. The Kenyans were allegedly recruited through deception and have been used for tasks such as assembling drones and handling chemicals without proper training. The Kenyan government is concerned about the recruitment of its nationals into 'forced criminality' such as drug trafficking and forced labor in foreign countries. The issue is not limited to Kenya, as about 1,400 Africans are fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine.

The Nigerian government has cancelled a policy that mandated the use of indigenous languages for teaching in primary schools, reverting to English as the medium of instruction. The policy, introduced three years ago, was aimed at improving learning outcomes but was deemed to have failed. Education Minister Tunji Alausa cited poor academic results in areas that adopted mother-tongue teaching as the reason for the reversal. The decision has drawn mixed reactions from education specialists, analysts, and parents, with some hailing the move and others arguing that it was premature. The debate highlights the challenge of balancing the promotion of Nigeria's linguistic heritage with the demands of a national curriculum and a globalized economy.

South Sudan's President Salva Kiir has dismissed Vice-President Benjamin Bol Mel, a potential successor, in a surprise move. Kiir also sacked the central bank governor and the head of the revenue authority, both considered close allies of Bol Mel. The dismissals come amid growing fears of political instability and a possible return to civil war following the collapse of a fragile power-sharing agreement between Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar. Bol Mel, who was appointed vice-president in February, showed no animosity in his response, thanking Kiir for the opportunity to serve. The move follows speculation on social media about an internal power struggle in the governing party, SPLM. A senior government official described Bol Mel as a 'divisive figure' in government, while a taxi driver in Juba welcomed the dismissal, saying 'everybody hates this man.' The dismissals have raised concerns about the future stability of South Sudan, an oil-rich nation that gained independence in 2011 and has been plagued by civil war and political tensions since then.

Valve, the company behind PC gaming platform Steam, has unveiled a new console called the Steam Machine to rival Nintendo, Xbox, and PlayStation. The Steam Machine is a home console that can also function as a PC, and is a spiritual sequel to the 2014 device of the same name. The new console is expected to cost more than its predecessors, with a release date set for early 2026. Valve has also announced a new virtual reality headset called the Steam Frame. Industry experts have expressed doubts about the console's potential and appeal, but Valve hopes to capitalize on the trend of PC-console hybrids.

The Swiss government is attempting to reduce the 39% tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump on Swiss exports to the US. After initial attempts by Swiss President Karin Keller Sutter failed, a delegation of Swiss business leaders visited Trump on November 4, bearing gifts including a Rolex gold watch and a gold bar. Trump has since indicated that he is working on a deal to lower the tariffs, and Swiss officials are hopeful that the rate may be reduced to 15%. In return, Swiss companies have offered to build more production plants in the US and potentially shift their airline fleet from Airbus to Boeing.

Panamanian authorities seized 13.2 tons of cocaine bound for the U.S. on a ferry in the Pacific Ocean, marking one of the largest drug hauls in Panamanian waters. The seizure is part of a larger effort by Latin American countries to combat narcotics trafficking, amid tensions with the U.S. over its anti-drug military deployment in the region. The U.S. has been increasing its military presence in Latin America to combat drug trafficking, but countries like Venezuela fear this is a pretext to target their leaders.

A passenger bus fell into a ravine in southern Peru, killing at least 37 people and injuring 13 others. The bus collided with a pickup truck and plummeted over 650 feet to the banks of the Ocoña river. The incident is the latest in a series of fatal bus accidents in Peru, which has seen a significant number of traffic-related deaths in recent years. Local leaders have offered condolences to the families of the victims and called for prayers for those who died and a speedy recovery for the injured. The country's history of bus accidents has prompted officials to take measures to improve road safety, including banning buses from certain stretches of highway.

Australian windsurfer Andy McDonald had a close encounter with a shark off the west coast of Australia, but despite being knocked off his board and bitten, he is eager to get back in the water. A camera captured the moment of the attack, which McDonald described as being hit 'like a freight train.' He managed to escape and resurface after about 10 seconds. McDonald has already ordered a new board and plans to return to surfing the next day.

A diamond brooch lost by Napoleon during his flight from the Battle of Waterloo sold for $4.4 million at a Sotheby's auction in Geneva. The brooch, featuring an oval diamond surrounded by smaller diamonds, was part of Napoleon's personal belongings abandoned during his hasty retreat. The sale price exceeded the pre-sale estimate, sparking interest due to its historical significance and the recent theft of Napoleonic jewels from the Louvre museum. The buyer was a private collector, while the seller's identity remained undisclosed.

Google has filed a federal lawsuit against a network of China-based cybercriminals accused of launching massive text-message phishing attacks. The scammers, known as 'Lighthouse,' sent legitimate-looking texts warning of 'stuck packages' or 'unpaid tolls' to trick recipients into revealing sensitive information. Google estimates that 15-100 million potential credit cards were compromised, and over 1 million victims were impacted. The lawsuit, filed under the RICO Act, targets unknown operators who built a 'phishing-as-a-service' platform. Google's general counsel stated that the lawsuit aims to deter future criminals rather than help victims recover losses. Cybersecurity experts believe the lawsuit could disrupt scammers' operations and make them second-guess their activities.

Kazakhstan's parliament has passed a bill to ban the promotion of 'non-traditional sexual orientation' in public spaces and media, echoing Russia's anti-LGBTQ laws. Rights groups have condemned the measure as discriminatory, warning it will increase the vulnerability of LGBTQ individuals in the country. The legislation, which still needs upper house approval, is seen as part of Kazakhstan's balancing act between its relationships with Russia and the West.

A report by Human Rights Watch and Cristosal found that Venezuelan migrants detained at El Salvador's CECOT prison at the US's request were subjected to 'arbitrary detention' and 'torture'. The detainees faced beatings, mistreatment, and inhumane conditions. The US government is accused of being 'complicit' in the mistreatment. The Venezuelan men were deported to El Salvador in March and later released and returned to Venezuela as part of a US-brokered prisoner swap.

A Turkish military cargo plane, a C-130 Hercules, crashed in Georgia on its way back from Azerbaijan, killing 20 soldiers on board. The plane lost communication 27 minutes into its flight. The Turkish Ministry of Defense confirmed the death toll and stated that a detailed examination of the wreckage would determine the cause of the crash. Various countries and organizations, including NATO, offered condolences to Turkey. The plane that crashed was 57 years old and had been purchased from Saudi Arabia in 2010.

The U.S. State Department has issued a rare warning to Americans in Japan, advising them to be alert to bear attacks and sightings, particularly in northern Japan. Since April, bears have killed at least 13 people and injured over 100 others. The attacks have been attributed to Japan's aging and declining rural population, climate change, and the bears' expanding range. The State Department has called out specific areas, including Hokkaido and Akita Prefectures, and Sapporo City, where a bear was spotted near the U.S. Consulate General.

A federal judge in Chicago has ordered the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to release over 600 illegal immigrants held at a suburban detention center, citing 'repeated, material violations' of a court-approved consent decree. The judge, Jeffrey Cummings, accused DHS of holding migrants in 'unsafe and unsanitary' conditions and making unlawful arrests. The decision stems from a class-action lawsuit claiming federal agents unlawfully detained hundreds of migrants. DHS officials have condemned the ruling, accusing the court of undermining national security and law enforcement. The release is related to 'Operation Midway Blitz,' a Trump enforcement sweep that immigration activists claim traumatized communities across the Chicago area.

The University of California at San Diego reported a significant decline in college preparedness among freshmen, with a 'nearly thirtyfold' increase in students with math skills below middle-school level between 2020 and 2025. The article attributes this decline to the failure of the K-12 education system, teachers' unions opposition to mandatory standardized testing, and the University of California system's decision to stop requiring SAT or ACT scores for admission. The author argues that the lack of accountability and the emphasis on 'equity' over academic preparedness have led to a national humiliation, with top universities struggling to teach basic math skills. The article calls for a return to basics in education, an end to the influence of teachers' unions, and the implementation of school choice to address the problem.

Janice Dean, a Fox News senior meteorologist and host of 'Fox & Friends,' has announced that she is taking a break from the network to deal with health issues. Dean, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2005, stated that she is 'ok' but needs rest and time to heal. She has been open about her MS diagnosis and has been an advocate in the MS community. Dean did not disclose how long she will be away from Fox News or the specific health issues she is facing.

The article discusses how the GOP can push for true health care 'affordability' and win in the upcoming midterms. It argues that Democrats are focusing on cost-of-living issues and that the GOP needs to counter with a concrete alternative to Obamacare. The author suggests that the GOP should promote reinsurance programs, loosen the 'age band' imposed by Obamacare, repeal Obamacare taxes, and allow for catastrophic plans. The article concludes that failing to do so represents a serious political risk for the GOP.

K-pop star HyunA collapsed during a performance at a music festival in Macau, China, sparking concern among fans over her recent weight loss. HyunA apologized to fans on social media, stating she didn't 'remember anything' about the performance and promising to develop more stamina. Fans expressed support for HyunA, criticizing the pressures of the K-pop industry and the potential impact on her health. HyunA had recently shared photos on social media focused on her weight, revealing she still had a 'long way to go' to reach her ideal weight.

Kevin Mackey, the former Cleveland State University basketball coach, has died at 80 after suffering a sudden heart attack. Mackey is best known for leading the Vikings to a historic upset over Indiana University in the 1986 NCAA Tournament. Despite his success on the court, Mackey's college coaching career was cut short due to his struggles with drug abuse. He later sought treatment and went on to coach minor league basketball and work as a scout for the Indiana Pacers.

Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes has denied rumors that he is seeking a trade to the New York Yankees, stating that his goal is to win with the Pirates. Skenes, who recently won the National League Cy Young Award, expressed his commitment to helping the team change the perception that they are perennial losers. Despite the Pirates not having won a World Series since 1979, Skenes is determined to work towards a championship. He emphasized that he wants to be part of the group of players that can help change the negative perception of the team outside of Pittsburgh.

New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani plans to expand a program that sends social workers instead of police officers to respond to 911 calls, despite the program's current struggles. The B-HEARD program, launched in 2021, has been criticized for its ineffectiveness, with a city comptroller's audit finding that 60% of calls were deemed ineligible and over 35% of eligible calls from mental health professionals went unresponded to. Mamdani's proposed Department of Community Safety would absorb B-HEARD and expand it citywide, requiring a significant increase in staffing and resources. Critics, including law enforcement and experts, have expressed concerns about the program's effectiveness and potential dangers.

The article discusses the US plans to build a missile defense system called Golden Dome, initially proposed by President Donald Trump as an 'Iron Dome for America'. The project aims to shield the country from drones and missiles, but its scope remains unclear, risking it becoming a costly and destabilizing white elephant. The article highlights the growing missile threats and the value of robust anti-missile defenses demonstrated in recent wars in Ukraine, Israel, and India.

The article discusses how AI is changing the way cover letters are written and used in job applications, potentially leading to lower pay. A good cover letter is crucial in helping employers identify promising candidates, especially those with non-traditional employment histories. However, with AI-generated cover letters, the signalling value of a cover letter is lost, and employers may struggle to distinguish between genuine and automated applications. The article explores the implications of this trend on the job market and the potential consequences for job seekers.

The Economist argues that the BBC must reform its news division in response to its latest crisis, sparked by a controversial documentary about Donald Trump that was accused of creating 'fake news' by manipulating footage. The article highlights the need for the BBC to bolster its news division and make changes to maintain its credibility and indispensability. The piece also touches on other current events and news stories, but the main focus is on the BBC's challenges and the necessity for reform.

The article 'In defence of personal finance' discusses the benefits and potential drawbacks of personal finance management. The author, a self-proclaimed enthusiast, spends considerable time managing household accounts, investments, and mortgages using spreadsheets. While acknowledging that personal finance may widen inequality, the article highlights its advantages. The piece is part of The Economist's Finance & economics section, specifically under the 'Buttonwood' column.

The article discusses Mexico's surprising record on murder under Claudia Sheinbaum's security strategy, contrasting it with Donald Trump's approach to combating drug gangs. While Trump has taken a militaristic approach, resulting in civilian casualties, Sheinbaum's strategy is presented as more effective. The article touches on various global issues and other leaders' policies, but primarily focuses on the differing approaches to security in Mexico and the US.

The article discusses Nigel Farage's shift towards fiscal prudence and its implications for Britain's economic policies. Farage, leader of the Reform UK party, has moved away from his previous stance of dramatic tax cuts, which were deemed unrealistic and potentially more expensive than Liz Truss's 2022 mini-budget. The article compares Farage's new stance with Rachel Reeves, the Labour chancellor, who has struggled to demonstrate sense and competence in her economic policies. The article welcomes Farage's newfound fiscal prudence but remains skeptical about its sincerity and effectiveness.

The article discusses the hidden risks associated with Taiwan's economic boom, particularly its weak-currency policy. While this policy has contributed to Taiwan's export-led growth and current-account surplus, it has also led to negative consequences such as punishing consumers and storing up financial risk. The article argues that it is time for Taiwan to loosen its grip on its currency to allow consumers to benefit from the country's growth.

China has successfully deployed the world's largest power-generating kite in Inner Mongolia, capable of harnessing high-altitude winds to provide cheaper power than traditional surface turbines. The 5,000 square-metre kite was developed by the China Energy Engineering Corporation as part of the country's first national research and development project for high-altitude wind power. Tethered to a generator on the ground, the kite can fly at an altitude exceeding 300 metres. The tests on the kites will help refine the design and potentially provide a new source of renewable energy.

The Yangtze River Delta region in China, comprising Shanghai and the provinces of Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui, has introduced a new mechanism to regulate cross-regional market enforcement, aiming to provide relief to the private sector from arbitrary inspections and profit-driven law enforcement. Entrepreneurs and legal experts have welcomed this move, stating that it will offer much-needed safety and confidence, especially for private enterprises. The new measures standardize cross-regional enforcement practices and establish a formal coordination framework. This development is seen as a positive step amid growing economic headwinds, as frequent and disorderly enforcement actions have been undermining corporate vitality and disrupting normal economic activity.

Hong Kong's Chief Secretary Eric Chan Kwok-ki has stated that debates are welcome at government-run Legislative Council election forums, but candidates should refrain from smearing or mudslinging against each other. Chan emphasized the importance of electing high-quality candidates and encouraged everyone to vote on December 7, assuring that no one would be asked to disclose their vote. The government plans to host 39 election forums for the city's second 'patriot-only' legislature election.

Tensions between India and Pakistan are escalating due to suspected terrorist attacks and accusations of proxy warfare through Afghanistan. Analysts are cautiously optimistic that conflict can be averted, but the hardline stances of Islamabad, Kabul, and New Delhi leave little room for optimism. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif accused Kabul and Delhi of working with Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants after a suicide bombing in Islamabad.

The article provides live coverage of the 2025 National Games, day 5, focusing on Hong Kong athletes' performances. Coleman Wong advances to the second round in men's tennis, while Siobhan Haughey dominates in the pool, reaching the semi-finals of the women's 100 meters freestyle. The article also highlights other events, including a rugby sevens match against Shandong and competitions at the Velodrome.

Three Chinese astronauts from the Tiangong space station, whose return to Earth was delayed due to suspected space debris damaging their spacecraft, are now on their way home aboard the new crew's Shenzhou-21 spacecraft. The original spacecraft, Shenzhou-20, was found to have tiny cracks in its return capsule's porthole, likely caused by the debris impact, making it unsafe for a crewed return. The astronauts, Chen Dong, Wang Jie, and Chen Zhongrui, are expected to land at the Dongfeng Landing Site in Inner Mongolia on Friday. The Shenzhou-20 spacecraft will remain in orbit for research purposes. A new spacecraft, Shenzhou-22, is scheduled to be sent to the Tiangong space station soon.

Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn to China, pledging to strengthen bilateral ties and cooperation in various fields, including infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and poverty reduction. The king described the two countries' relationship as 'between brothers' and expressed Thailand's willingness to learn from China's development experience. Xi highlighted China's willingness to import more Thai agricultural products and support Thai royal family's charitable initiatives.

Australian spy chief Mike Burgess warns that Chinese hackers are sabotaging key infrastructure in Australia, having penetrated US systems and aiming to do the same in Australia. Burgess stated that espionage cost Australia A$12.5bn last year and highlighted the activities of Chinese hacking groups Salt Typhoon and Volt Typhoon. China's foreign ministry accused Burgess's statement of spreading false narratives. The warning highlights the difficulty faced by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in balancing economic ties with China while mitigating security concerns.

Iraq's Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al Sudani's coalition has won the country's parliamentary elections, securing 1.32 million votes. However, the path to forming the next government remains unclear as no single bloc has enough seats to govern alone. The election saw a 56.11% turnout, with many young voters expressing dissatisfaction with the political elite. Sudani has attempted to portray himself as a leader who can bring stability to Iraq, but the presence of Iran-backed militias and the country's history of violence continue to pose challenges.

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) is considering a potential ban on transgender women competing in women's sports, following the lead of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The decision is expected to be guided by scientific research, with concerns about fairness and safety being prioritized. The IPC president, Andrew Parsons, has stated that the organization will consider the IOC's decision and may follow their lead. The potential ban has been sparked by concerns that transgender women may retain physical advantages after going through male puberty, providing an unfair edge in competition. The IPC has allowed each sport to set its own gender eligibility policies, but a blanket ban is being considered.

Princess Anne visited Singapore to mark 60 years of diplomatic relations with the UK, participating in a memorial service at the Kranji War Cemetery to honor Commonwealth casualties of World War II. She laid a wreath, met with veterans, and paid tribute to those who died defending freedom. The visit also included stops at the National Orchid Garden, where an orchid was named after her, and HMS Spey, a Royal Navy ship deployed to the Indo-Pacific region.

The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, has called for international powers to stop supplying weapons to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group in Sudan, amid ongoing conflict with the Sudanese Army. Elbasha Tibeig, an adviser to the RSF leader, responded by stating that Rubio's comments may 'jeopardise ceasefire efforts'. The war, which began in April 2023, has resulted in at least 40,000 deaths and millions displaced. The RSF is accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity, including mass killings and sexual violence. The US, along with other countries, has been working to end the war through a humanitarian ceasefire agreement.

Ukraine's justice and energy ministers have resigned amid a major embezzlement and kickbacks scandal involving the state nuclear power company, Energoatom. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for their removal after a 15-month investigation by anti-corruption watchdogs revealed alleged corruption involving top officials. The scandal involves payments from constructing fortifications against Moscow's assaults on energy infrastructure and kickbacks in the energy sector, with estimated losses of around $100m. The investigation resulted in the detention of five people and implicated several high-ranking officials, including former Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Chernyshov. The scandal comes at a critical time for Ukraine as it faces Russian attacks on energy infrastructure and mounting energy shortages.

Annie Farmer, a survivor of Jeffrey Epstein's abuse, expressed disgust at the news that Ghislaine Maxwell is receiving special treatment in prison. Maxwell was moved to a minimum-security prison camp, where she is allegedly being given privileges such as extra toilet paper. Farmer spoke to CNN's Kaitlan Collins about the issue, stating that she is 'disgusted' by the news. The article highlights the controversy surrounding Maxwell's treatment in prison and the concerns of Epstein's survivors.

At least 89 Palestinian patients and their companions from Gaza undergoing treatment in Jerusalem are at risk of deportation by Israeli authorities. Many were evacuated before the war in Gaza began two years ago, and some are now afraid to return to the battered enclave, where 94% of hospitals have been damaged or destroyed. The WHO has been asked by the Israeli military to facilitate the transfer of patients early next week. The situation is dire, with many patients fearing for their lives if they are returned to Gaza.

The 26th Annual Latin Grammy Awards took place on November 13, 2025, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. The event celebrated the best music of the year, with Bad Bunny winning multiple awards including Record Of The Year and Album Of The Year. Other notable winners include CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso, Natalia Lafourcade, and Karol G. The event was described as 'una gran fiesta' with immaculate vibes. The complete list of winners can be found on the Latin Grammys website.

South Korean prosecutors have alleged that former President Yoon Suk Yeol planned to provoke North Korean leader Kim Jong Un into a response that would justify declaring martial law. The allegations are based on memos found on a senior defense official's phone, which revealed plans to aggravate Kim Jong Un using drones to drop anti-regime leaflets. The drones were allegedly sent to Pyongyang on multiple occasions, prompting a statement from Kim Yo Jong, Kim Jong Un's sister, warning of 'severe consequences.' Yoon declared martial law weeks later, but it was lifted within hours after lawmakers voted it down. Yoon denies the allegations, but prosecutors say the evidence supports their claims.

The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) Director Daniel Rogers has warned of an alarming rise in teen terror suspects, with nearly 1 in 10 CSIS terrorism cases involving minors. Rogers attributed the trend to online extremism and the radicalization of youth through social media and online platforms. He cited several recent cases, including a minor arrested in Montreal for allegedly planning an attack on behalf of Daesh and two 15-year-olds arrested in Ottawa for conspiring to conduct a mass casualty attack targeting the Jewish community. Rogers emphasized the need for early intervention and prevention, highlighting the importance of societal supports for youth to catch radicalization early. The CSIS has joined international partners in releasing a joint public report to help parents and guardians identify early concerns and address youth radicalization.

A massive bridge at the Shuangjiangkou Hydropower Station in Sichuan Province, China, collapsed on November 11, 2025, just months after reopening to traffic. The Hongqi Bridge, a 758-meter-long cantilevered two-lane beam bridge, fell into the river below, sending concrete and steel plunging into the water. Authorities reported no casualties, as the bridge had been closed to traffic after cracks were detected on the road surface and slope the day before. The collapse is under investigation, with early assessments suggesting geological instability may have played a role. The bridge was part of a broader government effort to improve connectivity and spur economic growth in western China's rugged terrain.

The US State Department has issued a warning to Americans in Japan due to a surge in bear attacks, resulting in 13 fatalities since April. Japanese authorities have closed parks and deployed troops to affected areas, particularly in the northern regions. The increase in bear sightings is attributed to a poor acorn harvest, forcing bears to venture into residential areas in search of food. The State Department advises Americans to be aware of their surroundings and avoid areas where bears have been spotted.

Two senior Ukrainian officials, Justice Minister Herman Halushchenko and Energy Minister Svitlana Grynchuk, have resigned amid a corruption probe into a $100 million kickback scheme linked to the state-owned nuclear power company Energoatom. The investigation, code-named 'Midas', was led by Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau and Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has supported the investigation and vowed to impose sanctions on those implicated. The scandal has raised concerns about Ukraine's stability and its impact on international aid.

The article discusses the severe air pollution in India, particularly in New Delhi, and how a few affluent households are using a novel technology called 'Clean Air Bubble' to create a contaminant-free environment indoors. The technology, offered by companies like YOGA Clean Air and Breathe Easy, costs nearly 70% of the average annual income in India, making it inaccessible to most households. Despite the high cost, the demand for this technology is surging among the wealthy, who are willing to pay for the privilege of clean air. The article highlights the growing awareness of air pollution and its health impacts, but also notes that the government's response to the crisis has been inadequate.

A secret Justice Department memo has justified President Trump's boat strikes as lawful, relying on the premise that the US is in a state of armed conflict with drug cartels. The memo, written by the Office of Legal Counsel, cites White House claims that cartels are terrorists financing violence through narcotics sales. Critics argue that the strikes are extrajudicial killings and that there is no armed conflict. The administration has insisted that the strikes are lawful under the laws of war, but has not provided detailed public explanations. The memo has been criticized for accepting White House assertions at face value and not addressing potential counterarguments.

The New York Times article discusses the ongoing issue of workplace sexual harassment in South Korea, despite changes to the law in 2018 aimed at preventing and addressing such incidents. While the percentage of people experiencing workplace sexual harassment has fallen by half since then, many victims still feel that companies are not doing enough to prevent or respond to incidents. The article highlights the cases of two women, Baek SongYi and another woman who wished to remain anonymous, who reported experiencing harassment at their workplaces. Both women expressed frustration with the handling of their cases by their employers, citing a lack of transparency and accountability. The article also notes that South Korean law leaves room for employers to interpret what constitutes sexual harassment, and that many companies are reluctant to take disciplinary action against accused employees due to concerns about defamation risk.

The Trump administration has revoked a Biden-era ban on drilling and mining in Alaska's National Petroleum Reserve, a 23-million-acre area in northern Alaska. The move reverses restrictions on development in half of the reserve, allowing for oil and gas drilling and potentially harming the region's wildlife and ecosystem. The decision is part of the Trump administration's efforts to expand fossil fuel production in the US. Environmental groups and some Alaska Native communities oppose the move, citing concerns about the impact on the land, wildlife, and their way of life. Oil industry advocates and some Alaska lawmakers support the decision, seeing it as a step towards energy dominance and economic development.

The Trump administration is planning to introduce broad exemptions to certain tariffs in an effort to reduce elevated food prices in the US. The exemptions are expected to include beef and citrus products, and would apply to reciprocal tariffs imposed on countries that have not struck trade deals with the administration. This move comes after Democrats won key elections by focusing on affordability and promising to bring down costs. The administration's push to reduce food prices is seen as a response to growing concerns about the cost of living, which has negatively impacted the president's approval rating.

The US will consider obesity and having children with special needs as reasons to reject immigrant visas under new guidance issued by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The policy is part of President Donald Trump's efforts to crack down on immigration and ensure that the US immigration system is not a burden on American taxpayers. The guidance applies to people seeking to immigrate to the US, not those on routine short-term visits. The US has long considered whether an immigrant would become a 'public charge' before admitting them, but the new policy expands on this by considering conditions like obesity and special needs in dependents.

An analysis by The Guardian and Carbon Brief found that China and Saudi Arabia are among the countries receiving large sums of climate finance, despite being major polluters. The investigation revealed that only about a fifth of climate finance went to the world's 44 poorest countries, with much of it in the form of loans rather than grants. The analysis suggests that the distribution of climate finance is subject to political interests and not always directed where it is most needed. The findings have raised concerns that the current system may be perpetuating debt traps for vulnerable nations and failing to address the root causes of climate change.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's sleep schedule has raised concerns about her commitment to improving work-life balance among the country's employees. Takaichi revealed she gets by on just 2-4 hours of sleep per night, a habit she shares with her political hero Margaret Thatcher. The Prime Minister's long working hours and expectation for employees to work longer hours to promote economic growth have sparked worries about the impact on workers' health. Takaichi has promised to prioritize workers' health, but her own heavy workload has drawn concern from both political friends and foes. Japan has struggled to change its corporate culture that expects long working hours, which has been blamed for a rise in 'karoshi' (death from overwork) and low birthrate.

UBS strategists have identified a subset of European stocks that are poised for growth in 2026, driven by themes such as renewal, structural investment, and AI proliferation. They label these stocks 'GOTCHA' stocks, an acronym for 'Global Opportunities for Thematic CHAmpions.' The bank has a 'Buy' rating on 17 of the 29 companies identified as GOTCHA stocks, including ASML, Santander, and Solaria. UBS expects the pan-European Stoxx 600 index to hit 650 euros by the end of 2026, representing a 12% premium from the current price. The strategists highlight key sectors such as banks, utilities, and industrials, which are benefiting from positive earnings revisions and structural shifts in Europe's economic landscape.

Bad Bunny won the album of the year award at the 2025 Latin Grammys for his genre-bending album 'DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS'. The Puerto Rican superstar had never won any of the major prizes before, despite having a dozen trophies. Other winners included Karol G, Alejandro Sanz, and CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso. The ceremony celebrated pan-Latin music and artistry, with some winners and presenters addressing social issues like immigration.

The article discusses the ongoing COP30 climate summit in Belém, Brazil, where world leaders are gathering to address the climate crisis. The absence of US President Donald Trump, who has been critical of climate action, is notable. The article highlights the growing frustration among climate activists and world leaders, who feel that the world is not moving quickly enough to address the crisis. Despite Trump's absence, his influence is still felt, with some delegates wearing 'Make Science Great Again' caps. The article also notes that countries like China are taking a lead in green energy investments, and that the world is moving forward with climate action without the US.