In other news

The article discusses how China has sparked a rooftop solar revolution in Pakistan, particularly in the city of Lahore. Muhammed Munir, a retired railway worker, is one example of a Pakistani who has installed rooftop solar panels imported from China to cope with the frequent power cuts and high electricity bills during the record-breaking heat of summer. This move is part of a growing trend among Pakistanis who are taking matters into their own hands to address their energy needs. The article highlights this as a test case for the green transition in the Global South.

The article discusses the potential risks of a stock market crash, particularly in the US tech sector, and how it could impact the global economy. It highlights the warnings from bank bosses, the IMF, and investors who have previously bet against subprime mortgage bonds. The article notes that the valuations of US tech companies are stratospheric and that central bankers are preparing for potential financial trouble. A crash could lead to an unusual recession, and the article suggests that the market is on the precipice of a correction.

The article discusses the fragile peace in Ethiopia after the government struck a peace deal with the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) three years ago, ending one of the deadliest conflicts of the 21st century. However, the deal is now unravelling as Ethiopia's autocratic leader, Abiy Ahmed, is ignoring it, and the TPLF is preparing to return to the battlefield. Skirmishes have broken out on the region's southern border, and the Ethiopian army has responded with drone strikes. The TPLF has accused the government of a 'strategy of extermination.' The article suggests that pressure from America and its allies can prevent a return to fighting.

The article discusses how the elite in Russia are changing during wartime, with new individuals rising to prominence as the old elite struggle to maintain their status. The author, Kate de Pury, describes how the party scene in Russia has changed, with the old guard being replaced by a new cast of characters. The article highlights the shift in power dynamics and the emergence of new influencers in Russian society.

The article discusses how two duelling history influencers are used to explain South Korea's polarised politics, particularly in the context of the country's recent brush with martial law. The president of South Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol, declared martial law on December 3rd, 2024, claiming that the opposition-controlled parliament had become a 'monster' threatening liberal democracy. The article explores the deep roots of the country's polarised politics and how historical narratives are being used to shape public opinion.

India's women's cricket team won the World Cup for the first time on November 2nd, 2025, marking a significant milestone for women's sports in the country. Cricket has long been a male-dominated sport in India, with the men's team receiving the majority of attention. The victory is seen as a welcome boost for women's sport and for Indian women in general. The article highlights the historical neglect of women's cricket in India and the significance of this achievement.

The article explores the intersection of technology and conservative religious groups in the United States, particularly in their efforts to boost the birth rate among certain demographics. It profiles individuals like Tim Adkinson, who attend events designed to facilitate dating and procreation, often with a specific ideological or demographic focus. The article suggests that tech-savvy individuals and conservative groups are collaborating to create environments conducive to forming families, reflecting a broader societal trend or movement that is both controversial and complex.

The article discusses the economic risks associated with Taiwan's export-driven growth, fueled by a weak-currency policy. While Taiwan's export prowess is envied globally, its undervalued currency has led to a significant current-account surplus. However, this policy has negatively impacted ordinary Taiwanese consumers, who have been deprived of the benefits of growth. The article argues that it is time for Taiwan to reassess its currency policy to mitigate building financial risks.

The article discusses the trial of a Russian experimental theatre director who was put on trial by the Kremlin. The director's trial has garnered significant attention, and the article explores the reasons behind the Russian state's actions against her. The article highlights the director's popularity and the impact of her work, suggesting that her trial is a manifestation of the Kremlin's crackdown on artistic freedom.

The article discusses Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, and his recent marriage to his spiritual adviser, which has shocked the country. The article explores Khan's rise to fame as a cricketer, his entry into politics, and his current situation, where his new wife could potentially influence his return to office or continued imprisonment. The article provides an in-depth analysis of Khan's life, his spiritual journey, and the implications of his recent marriage on his political future.

The article 'The school for wildlife traffickers' by Rachel Nuwer discusses how Chinese criminals are recruiting Malawian orphans into the ivory trade. The story focuses on Francis, a 19-year-old orphan who is about to graduate from the Amitofo Care Centre in Malawi. The article highlights the vulnerability of orphans and destitute children being exploited by criminal networks involved in wildlife trafficking.

The article explores the current state of manufacturing in America through the lens of photographer Christopher Payne's work. It highlights the contrast between the nostalgic view of manufacturing as a bygone era of brawn and prosperity and the reality of modern factories, which are highly sophisticated and technologically advanced. The article showcases various factories across the United States, including those producing appliances, tires, medical imaging devices, and aircraft engines. It emphasizes the importance of human workers alongside robots and automation, citing examples of skilled labor and problem-solving. The article concludes that despite the fetishization of manufacturing, few people understand what modern factories look like or the value of the work done within them.

The African Union Commission Chairman, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has rejected claims of Christian genocide in Nigeria, stating that Muslims are the primary victims of Boko Haram. This statement has sparked a heated debate, with some lawmakers and officials in the US calling for stronger measures against Nigeria, including sanctions and military action. The White House has also responded, stating that the US will stop aid to Nigeria if the government does not address the persecution of Christians. Nigerian officials are accused of waging a media campaign to deflect accusations of persecuting Christians.

A Brazilian bodybuilder and Instagram influencer, Diana Areas, died after falling from her high-rise apartment in Rio de Janeiro. She was 39 years old and had over 200,000 followers on Instagram. Areas had been admitted to a hospital earlier with cuts on her body but left without being discharged. The circumstances surrounding her death are unclear, and authorities have not provided further details. Her followers expressed grief on her Instagram page, describing her as a great nutritionist and a woman who left a mark on their lives.

Canada is expanding its Arctic presence by opening a consulate in Nuuk, Greenland, amid heightened geopolitical tensions and competition for influence in the region. Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand stated that this move is part of Canada's effort to strengthen its Arctic footprint. The consulate will focus on Arctic security and will be shared with Iceland. The decision comes as the U.S., under President Donald Trump, has expressed interest in acquiring Greenland. Experts view Canada's move as a step towards strengthening North American Arctic security, rather than a challenge to U.S. interests. The region is significant due to its strategic location and natural resources.

China has begun sea trials of its most advanced amphibious assault ship, the Type 076 Sichuan, which combines features of an aircraft carrier and amphibious assault ship. The ship is designed for drone and marine operations, with an electromagnetic catapult system capable of launching fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and drones. China's military expansion, led by Xi Jinping, aims to challenge the US as the dominant military power by 2035. The Type 076 Sichuan has a full-load displacement of over 40,000 tons and a full-length flight deck, and its sea trials will test its power, stability, and systems.

The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) has reported an alarming rise in terrorism cases involving minors, with nearly 1 in 10 investigations including at least one person under 18. CSIS Director Daniel Rogers attributed this trend to online extremism and the ease with which young people can be radicalized through social media and other online platforms. Rogers 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 on the Jewish community. The CSIS has joined international partners in releasing a joint report on the issue, highlighting the need for parents and guardians to be aware of the signs of radicalization. Rogers emphasized that radicalized youth can cause the same harm as radicalized adults and that early intervention is crucial in preventing violent extremism.

The article reports on North Korean troops clearing mines in Russia's Kursk region, highlighting deepening military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang. New images released by Russia's defense ministry show North Korean soldiers handling detection equipment and receiving instructions from Russian engineers. The deployment follows last year's fighting that helped repel a Ukrainian incursion into the Kursk region. Reports indicate that North Korea sent around 14,000 troops under a mutual defense pact, with over 6,000 casualties, although these numbers couldn't be independently verified. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that out of up to 12,000 North Koreans sent to support Russia's war effort, their losses are more than 4,000. The Russian defense ministry claims that North Korean engineers received extensive training from Russian instructors to handle NATO and Ukrainian mines and counter drones. The mine-clearing mission aims to reduce the risk to Russian personnel in the war-scarred region.

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.

The United States is seeking United Nations authorization for a multi-year international force to govern security in the Gaza Strip through at least 2027, as part of President Donald Trump's 20-point plan. The draft resolution, written with input from several Middle Eastern countries, aims to establish an International Security Force in Gaza for at least two years. The plan faces challenges, including concerns from Israel about UN involvement and disagreements over the definition of disarmament. Experts have offered differing views on the plan, with some warning that it could harm Israeli national security and others urging hope despite the obstacles.

A former associate of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Tymur Mindich, has been accused of masterminding a $100 million embezzlement scheme involving top officials and Ukraine's state nuclear power company, Energoatom. Mindich allegedly exerted control over loyalists who pressured contractors for kickbacks to bypass bureaucratic obstacles. Despite his history with Mindich, Zelenskyy was not implicated in the investigation and has issued sanctions against his former business partner. The Ukrainian National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) conducted a 15-month investigation, involving 1,000 hours of wiretapping and 70 raids. Mindich remains at large, having fled to Israel as the scheme unraveled.

China's semiconductor industry is expected to grow driven by demand for AI and EV chips. Industry leaders at the 2025 Global Semiconductor Market Summit discussed the sector's future amid US-China tech rivalry. China's chip production is hampered by a scattered production pattern and limited access to advanced chips from Nvidia and TSMC. The country is turning to RISC-V, a new chip structure, to boost its chip industry. China's IC output rose 10.2% in the first 10 months of 2025, while imports increased 8.5%.

The Chinese government has launched a crackdown on danmei, a popular genre of same-sex romance stories written and read mainly by straight women. The crackdown has resulted in the interrogation, arrest, and charging of dozens of writers for producing and selling obscene materials. Fans of the genre say that the stories are being toned down and are no longer as enjoyable. Scholars believe that danmei appeals to Chinese women as a way to imagine relationships on a more equal footing and sidestep the country's conservative gender values. The crackdown has left many young Chinese women feeling less happy and deprived of a source of relaxation and entertainment.

The Chinese LGBTQ community is facing a significant setback as two popular gay-dating apps, Blued and Finka, were abruptly removed from mainland app stores. The removal, which was carried out under government orders, has raised concerns about the shrinking digital spaces available to the community. The apps, owned by Hong Kong-based BlueCity Holdings Ltd, were first noticed missing by Chinese social media users last weekend. Apple confirmed the removals in a statement, citing compliance with Chinese laws. The move is seen as part of a broader crackdown on LGBTQ content online and in media, with same-sex marriage not being legal in China. Conservative voices have argued that LGBTQ groups risk creating conflict in society and accelerating population decline.

Chinese vendors selling on e-commerce platforms like Shein and Temu are facing increased tax burdens from both the European Union and China's domestic tax authority. The EU has agreed to abolish a rule that allowed goods worth less than €150 to enter the region without customs duties, targeting mainly Chinese goods. Meanwhile, China's tax authority has demanded that online marketplaces report transaction data on Chinese merchants to collect taxes, presenting a significant challenge for cross-border sellers.

Hong Kong's Financial Secretary, Paul Chan Mo-po, is optimistic about the city's economy, expecting the unemployment rate to stabilize or decline as the economy gains momentum. The government has revised its GDP growth forecast for 2025 upwards to 3.2%, driven by robust exports, consumption, and investment. The economy grew by 3.8% in the third quarter, its 11th consecutive quarter of year-on-year growth. Chan attributes the growth to Hong Kong's status as a free port and safe haven for capital, citing a sharp rise in bank deposits. He expects the improving economy to boost confidence in spending, pointing to increased transactions in the property market.

Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund, Danantara, led by Pandu Sjahrir, is making a bold entrance onto the global stage with ambitious plans to boost economic growth through strategic investments. The fund aims to improve the haj experience for Indonesian Muslims, reduce reliance on imports in key sectors like healthcare, and attract global partnerships for technology transfers and job creation. Danantara is bidding to construct a haj village in Mecca and launching a large waste-to-energy initiative.

The Philippines' Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), established by President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr to investigate alleged corruption in public flood control projects, is facing criticism for its limited powers and independence. Analysts warn that the commission's inability to compel testimony, secure evidence, or enforce penalties may hinder its ability to deliver real accountability in the anti-corruption fight. The ICI has identified 80 anomalous flood control projects and recommended charges against officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). Despite its efforts, the commission's ad hoc setup and limited coercive powers raise doubts about its effectiveness in addressing systemic corruption in the country's largest public spending programs.

The article provides live coverage of the 7th day of the 2025 National Games, focusing on Hong Kong athletes' performances. Hong Kong's Lee and Leung won gold in cycling, while the triathlon team secured silver. Other athletes, such as Siobhan Haughey and Cheung Ka-long, are also making progress in their respective events. The article highlights the busy day ahead for Hong Kong's athletes and provides updates on various competitions.

Shanghai has unveiled a plan to transform its dining industry through the use of artificial intelligence, automated kitchens, robot servers, and data-driven menus. The city aims to become a 'nationally leading, world-class' hub for smart restaurants by 2028. The plan includes the incorporation of smart technologies in over 70% of catering businesses, the creation of smart central kitchens, and the setup of 'AI + dining' pilot projects. Analysts say this could trigger a major shake-up in China's vast food service sector, reshaping how meals are made and transforming the labour market.

Former Spanish soccer boss Luis Rubiales was pelted with eggs by his own uncle during a book presentation in Spain. The book, titled 'Matar a Rubiales' (Killing Rubiales), details Rubiales' downfall after kissing a player, Jenni Hermoso, at the 2023 Women's World Cup. Rubiales was found guilty of sexual assault for the unsolicited kiss and was fined and ordered not to contact Hermoso for a year. The incident at the book presentation was met with swift action from the audience, who grabbed the uncle and escorted him away. Spanish police arrested the egg thrower, who was identified as Luis Rubén Rubiales, an actor and Rubiales' uncle.

An Australian man, Johnson Wen, 26, was charged with being a public nuisance in Singapore for rushing film star Ariana Grande at the Asia premiere of 'Wicked: For Good.' Wen jumped a barricade, wrapped himself around Grande, and was subsequently grabbed by security guards. Grande's co-star Cynthia Erivo intervened, shoving Wen away and comforting Grande afterward. Wen faces a fine of $1,500, three months in jail, or both. The incident occurred at Universal Studios in Singapore, and the movie's launch proceeded as scheduled. The article also highlights the close relationship between Grande and Erivo during the film's press tours.

The Vatican has returned 62 Indigenous artifacts to Canada as a 'concrete sign of dialogue, respect and fraternity' between the Catholic Church and Indigenous peoples. The artifacts, including an iconic Inuit kayak, were part of the Vatican Museum's ethnographic collection and were given to Pope Pius XI by Catholic missionaries in 1925. The return is seen as a significant step towards reconciliation and follows Pope Francis's apology for the Church's role in running Canada's residential schools. The artifacts will be taken to the Canadian Museum of History to be identified and preserved by Indigenous communities.

A family of four, including two children aged 6 and 3, died after suspected food poisoning from eating street food at a popular tourist site in Istanbul, Turkey. The family, who were on holiday from Germany, fell ill after consuming street food dishes, including mussels with rice and 'kumpir' (stuffed baked potatoes), at a restaurant in Ortakoy. The father is currently fighting for his life in intensive care. An investigation has been launched, and four people have been taken into custody. Samples have been taken from the places where the family ate. The incident has raised concerns about food safety, particularly in tourist areas.

The UK government plans to overhaul its asylum policies, reducing protections for refugees and ending automatic benefits for asylum seekers. The new measures, modelled on Denmark's strict asylum system, aim to slash irregular immigration and counter the rising popularity of the anti-immigrant Reform UK party. The plans include reducing the length of refugee status from five years to 30 months, making refugees wait 20 years before applying for long-term residency, and revoking the statutory legal duty to provide support to asylum seekers. Critics argue that the measures will not deter people from trying to reach Britain and will instead harm those who are genuinely in need of protection.

A massive spider web, considered the world's largest, has been discovered in a cave on the Albanian-Greek border. The web, spanning 1,140 square feet, is home to an estimated 110,000 spiders from two different species: Tegenaria domestica and Prinerigone vagans. Researchers were surprised to find that the spiders coexist peacefully, despite typically being predator and prey. The abundance of food, specifically 2.4 million midge flies, and the dark environment may contribute to their harmonious living arrangement. Experts believe this discovery could provide insights into evolutionary biology and the dynamics of group living.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning faced a tough game against No. 5-ranked Georgia, resulting in a 35-10 loss. Manning acknowledged his performance wasn't good enough, citing a crucial interception and stating that he needs to 'play well the whole game.' The loss puts Texas at 7-3 and jeopardizes their College Football Playoff hopes. Despite this, players remain optimistic about their chances, with running back Quintrevion Wisner expressing confidence in the team's ability to recover.

Federal immigration agents conducted raids in Charlotte, North Carolina, as part of President Trump's crackdown on illegal immigration. The operation targeted 'violent criminal illegal aliens' and was condemned by local officials for causing unnecessary fear and uncertainty among the city's 150,000 immigrant residents. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated that the goal was to ensure Americans' safety and remove public safety threats. The raids are part of a larger effort by the Trump administration, which has already conducted similar operations in California, Illinois, Oregon, and New York. Local officials, including Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles, urged residents to know their rights and remain calm, while some business owners shut their doors in fear. The operation was welcomed by Mecklenburg County Republican Party Chairman Kyle Kirby, who supported the Trump administration's efforts to secure the border.

Comedian Jeff Dye is leaving Los Angeles for Texas due to concerns over California's direction under Governor Gavin Newsom's leadership. Dye expressed his fears on 'The Joe Rogan Experience,' citing the state's response to devastating LA fires as a major concern. He also criticized celebrities who threatened to leave the US if Donald Trump was re-elected but didn't follow through, unlike Rosie O'Donnell and Ellen DeGeneres who actually relocated abroad.

The US Mint produced its final pennies on Wednesday, marking the end of a 232-year production run. The last pennies minted bear a special omega symbol and are expected to fetch high prices at auction, with estimates ranging from $1 million to $5 million per coin. The auction proceeds will fund Mint operations, with excess going to the US Treasury. The penny's demise is attributed to rising production costs, which had ballooned to 3.69 cents per coin. Despite being discontinued, existing pennies remain legal tender, and the Mint will continue to produce collector versions in limited quantities. The shutdown has caused headaches for retailers, with some rounding cash transactions to the nearest nickel.

A massive brawl broke out at UFC 322 between Dillon Danis, a training partner of Conor McGregor, and Islam Makhachev's team. The incident started when Danis was moving around seats and began to sit in different seats, causing tension. UFC President Dana White revealed that Danis was not invited to the event and had bought a ticket. White was livid with Danis and announced a lifetime ban for him. The brawl was a result of a long-standing feud between Danis and Makhachev's team, which includes members of the Nurmagomedov family. White admitted that he should have stepped in when former welterweight title challenger Jorge Masvidal confronted Danis, saying he was going to fight him.

Former First Lady Michelle Obama stated that America is not ready for a woman to be president, citing that many men are not comfortable being led by a woman. She made these comments while promoting her new book, 'The Look,' at an event in Brooklyn. Obama has faced speculation about running for president but has repeatedly stated she has no desire to do so. She previously supported Kamala Harris in her 2024 presidential bid against Donald Trump.

The UK government plans to introduce significant changes to its asylum rules, making it harder for refugees to settle in the country. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is set to announce the reforms, which include ending permanent protection for refugees, increasing the waiting period for permanent settlement from 5 to 20 years for those who arrive illegally, and making refugee status temporary. The changes are designed to reduce illegal migration and are partly modeled on Denmark's asylum policies. Critics argue that the measures will create a hostile climate for migrants and undermine protection for those in need.

The article discusses how Russian tactics in the Ukraine war have shifted over the past two years, particularly in their approach to capturing key cities like Bakhmut and Pokrovsk. The use of drones has significantly impacted the battlefield, making advances more difficult and leading to the adoption of unconventional tactics such as using mopeds and four-wheelers to infiltrate Ukrainian areas. Russian forces have moved from large-scale 'meat grinder' assaults to smaller, stealthier groups attempting to surround and encircle Ukrainian troops. The situation in Pokrovsk is dire, with Ukrainian supply lines severed and medical evacuations becoming nearly impossible due to the presence of Russian drones.

The article reports on Palestinian students celebrating their high school graduation in Gaza despite facing significant hardships due to two years of Israeli bombardment, which has decimated education infrastructure. The United Nations has described this as 'scholasticide.' The article also touches on other news stories, including the deportation of sick Palestinian patients from Jerusalem back to Gaza, the devastating impact of heavy rainfall on displaced Palestinians, and various other global news items.

Delhi University has cancelled a seminar on democracy on the same day it issued a directive to staff to promote a summit on cow welfare, intensifying concerns about academic freedom in India. Critics say Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is using India's devotion to cows as a political tool to elevate its Hindu nationalist agenda. Professors and students accuse the university administration of compromising its academic freedom and suppressing critical thought.

The US Mint has stopped producing pennies due to high production costs and limited usefulness. The nickel, which costs nearly 9 cents to make, may be next. Experts say that while there are efforts to reduce production costs, the nickel's days may be numbered. However, nostalgia and concerns about a cashless economy may slow down its elimination. The article discusses the potential consequences of getting rid of the nickel, including the impact on lower-income consumers and the potential 'rounding tax' on cash purchases.

The Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels have signed a framework for peace in Qatar, mediated by Qatar, the US, and the African Union. The conflict in eastern DR Congo has been ongoing for decades, with the M23 rebels capturing key cities earlier this year. The framework addresses eight protocols, including humanitarian access, return of displaced people, and protection of the judiciary. However, some issues, such as prisoner exchanges and ceasefire monitoring, have been slower than expected. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and hundreds of thousands displaced. Kinshasa demands the withdrawal of Rwandan troops, while Kigali insists this can happen only after the disbandment of the FDLR rebel militia.

The US embassy in Somalia has warned of a major data breach in the country's electronic visa system, potentially exposing personal information of tens of thousands of applicants, including US citizens. The breach is believed to have been caused by unidentified hackers who penetrated the Somali government's e-visa platform, compromising data from at least 35,000 people. The leaked documents include names, photos, dates of birth, and other personal details. The UK has also warned travelers to consider the risks before applying for an e-visa. The breach has added to tensions between Somalia and Somaliland, which has its own visa system and has refused to recognize Somalia's e-visa. The dispute has left some travelers stranded at airports.

US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order exempting dozens of food products, including coffee, bananas, and beef, from his administration's tariffs. The move is seen as a reversal by the Trump administration and comes as they face pressure over rising prices. Trump had previously downplayed concerns about the cost of living but has since focused on the issue after his Republican Party's poor performance in the recent elections. The exemptions include a range of products such as avocados, tomatoes, coconuts, and mangoes, which the administration claims cannot be produced in sufficient quantities domestically. Economists have warned that companies would pass the cost of tariffs onto customers, and inflation has remained a concern. The exemptions take effect retroactively and are part of a broader effort to address concerns about grocery prices.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to overhaul state-owned energy companies after a $100 million corruption scandal was uncovered in the country's energy sector. The scandal has implicated several high-ranking officials, including some close associates of Zelensky. The anti-corruption investigation has revealed that several members of the Ukrainian government were involved in the embezzlement. Zelensky has promised to cooperate fully with the investigation and has instructed government officials to maintain communication with law enforcement and anti-corruption bodies. The scandal has raised concerns about Zelensky's commitment to fighting corruption, particularly after he signed a law limiting the independence of anti-corruption agencies in July. The Ukrainian energy sector is already under strain due to Russian attacks on energy facilities, which have resulted in crippling power outages.

The article discusses the growing trend of 'agentic AI', a type of artificial intelligence that can perform specific tasks autonomously. Experts at the Web Summit conference in Lisbon debated the risks and benefits of agentic AI, with some warning that Europe's cautious approach to AI regulation may cause it to fall behind in the global AI race. Babak Hodjat, co-inventor of Siri, emphasized the need for caution and understanding of AI's limitations, while Jarek Kutylowski, CEO of DeepL, argued that Europe's strict regulations may hinder its ability to capitalize on AI's potential productivity gains.

Brazil has expressed surprise that the UK has not invested in a new rainforest fund it helped design, despite its role in tackling deforestation. The Tropical Forests Forever Facility (TFFF) aims to make forests worth more standing than cut down and pay countries and communities for conservation. The fund needs $10-25 billion in government money to launch and has so far raised $5.5 billion from countries like Norway, France, and Indonesia. Experts believe the TFFF has the potential to be a game-changer but faces challenges in competing with lucrative industries like gold and oil.

Former world heavyweight champion Joseph Parker has denied taking any prohibited substances after testing positive for cocaine in a routine test taken on the day he fought against Fabio Wardley. Parker, 33, stated that he is 'confident' he will be cleared after the investigation and that he does not use performance-enhancing drugs. The test was conducted by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency, and Parker is facing a potential two-year ban from the sport. The British Boxing Board of Control is investigating the matter. Parker had been on a six-fight winning streak before losing to Wardley, and his next fight was expected to be against Oleksandr Usyk. The news has sparked concern among boxing experts, with some questioning Parker's decision to take the fight against Wardley.

Storm Claudia caused widespread damage and flooding in Portugal, Spain, Britain, and Ireland. In Portugal's Algarve region, extreme winds reached 114kmph, killing an 85-year-old British woman at a holiday campsite in Albufeira and injuring dozens of others. The storm's impact was described as 'tornado-like' by local media, with significant damage reported. The Portuguese Prime Minister expressed condolences to the victim's family. In the UK, Storm Claudia caused severe flooding in Wales, particularly in Monmouth, with rescue operations underway. The Welsh government reported significant flooding affecting homes, businesses, and infrastructure.

India is experiencing increasingly severe heat waves, but the country may be undercounting heat-related deaths due to various factors, including a narrow definition of heat-related deaths and inadequate data collection. Experts say that the actual number of deaths is likely much higher than reported, with some studies suggesting a 14.7% increase in deaths on heat wave days. The government has implemented heat action plans, but more needs to be done to improve forecasting, data collection, and public health preparedness.

Leslie Odom Jr. returns to the Broadway musical 'Hamilton' as Aaron Burr, a decade after his initial performance. He discusses how his experience has changed with age and personal growth, including becoming a father and dealing with a lawsuit filed by his father. The article explores Odom's insights into Burr's character, particularly in the song 'The Room Where It Happens,' and how his perspective has evolved over time. The piece also includes commentary from Lin-Manuel Miranda and Alex Lacamoire on the song's creation and Odom's performance.

The Georgia Bulldogs dominated the Texas Longhorns 35-10, propelling themselves closer to a College Football Playoff berth while sinking Texas' chances. Gunner Stockton threw four touchdown passes, and Kirby Smart's aggressive coaching played a crucial role in the victory. The Bulldogs' defense, which has been disappointing this season, performed well, holding Texas to 23 rushing yards and sacking Arch Manning three times. Texas' inability to run the ball and protect Manning were key factors in their loss.

The article discusses the impact of heat stress on women in India, particularly those working in the informal sector. It highlights the struggles of women like Kantaben Kishen Parmar, a vegetable seller, and Hansaben Veijay Aahir, a waste collector, who face health issues and income loss due to extreme heat. Experts warn that heat stress is a more significant threat than heat waves, and that India's slow response to the issue exacerbates the problem. The article also touches on the need for better data collection and adaptation measures to mitigate the effects of heat stress.

The article discusses the growing Chinese influence in Laos, particularly with the Laos-China Railway (LCR) project, part of China's Belt and Road Initiative. The LCR has brought significant changes to Laos, including an influx of Chinese tourists, businesses, and investments. While the project has boosted tourism and trade, it has also raised concerns about the distribution of benefits, cultural heritage, and the impact on local businesses. The article highlights the dominance of Chinese culture and businesses in towns like Boten and Luang Prabang, with many Chinese tourists arriving on package tours that cater exclusively to their needs. Local businesses feel left out, and there are concerns about the long-term sustainability of the project given China's slowing economy.

The article reports on the dire conditions faced by displaced residents in Gaza following torrential rains that hit the enclave. The rains have exacerbated the misery of the people who have been living in tent camps without access to basic necessities like running water and electricity. The UN estimates that 1.5 million people need emergency shelter items, and rebuilding Gaza is expected to cost around $70 billion. The article highlights the struggles of individuals and families who are trying to survive in makeshift shelters, with many lacking the resources to prepare for the harsh weather conditions.

Saudi Arabia is scaling back generous salary premiums for foreign talent in sectors like construction and manufacturing as part of its economic transformation under Vision 2030. The kingdom is pivoting towards sectors like AI, logistics, and mining, and is reining in spending due to lower oil prices. As a result, foreign recruits can no longer expect to negotiate high premiums, and employers are rethinking packages. The change reflects a broader shift in the kingdom's economic priorities and a growing pool of candidates. Saudi Arabia remains attractive for those outside the region, but companies will need to offer more predictable and balanced packages to attract top talent.

US federal authorities conducted immigration raids in Charlotte, North Carolina, on November 15, 2025, as part of a crackdown on illegal immigration. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that the operation was a response to North Carolina's refusal to detain suspects sought by immigration authorities. Local leaders had been informed of the operation and urged people to seek help from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, which is not participating in the raids. The raids have caused fear and uncertainty in the community, with concerns about excessive force and detention of people without criminal records.

Luxury brands such as Prada, Coach, and EssilorLuxottica are reporting stabilizing demand in China after months of volatility, with some seeing strong growth. However, analysts caution that the recovery is uneven due to weak consumer confidence, property strain, and rising local competition. Chinese shoppers are returning to luxury, but the sector's rebound is slow and uncertain.

The article discusses the potential consequences of companies replacing junior staff with AI, citing concerns that it may backfire in the long term. As companies like Amazon, Accenture, and Salesforce lay off junior employees and invest in AI, experts warn that this could lead to a talent bottleneck, increased hiring costs, and a loss of fresh ideas and perspectives. The article highlights the importance of junior staff in bringing new ideas, acting as 'culture carriers,' and providing a 'generational bridge' between the company and its customers. Experts argue that companies that fail to nurture young talent will eventually lose touch with consumers and mainstream culture, and that AI cannot replace the tacit knowledge and institutional wisdom that junior staff bring to an organization.

The article discusses how the decline of frog populations due to a fungal disease has led to an increase in malaria cases in humans. Researchers have found that with fewer tadpoles to eat mosquito larvae, mosquito populations have surged, resulting in a fivefold increase in malaria cases in Central America. The article highlights the interconnectedness of nature and human health, and how the loss of species can have unforeseen consequences on human well-being. Conservation efforts are underway to rescue and reintroduce frog species, but the challenge is immense, with over 500 amphibian species affected by the fungus.

The article discusses the tenure of London Mayor Sadiq Khan and its implications for Zohran Mamdani, the mayor-elect of New York. It highlights how Khan's experience as a Muslim, left-leaning mayor in a major city like London can provide valuable lessons for Mamdani as he takes office in New York. The article is written in the context of President Donald Trump's tendency to criticize Muslim mayors and left-leaning politicians, and how Khan's tenure can serve as a counter-narrative to Trump's rhetoric.

A 'counter-monument' has been unveiled in Nancy, France, to challenge the legacy of colonialism and the statue of Sgt Blandan, a French hero of the 19th century Algerian conquest. The counter-monument, known as the Disorientation Table, invites viewers to reflect on France's colonial past and its ongoing impact on society. The initiative is part of a growing debate on colonial monuments in public spaces and the need to acknowledge and come to terms with the traumas of the past. The article explores the history behind Sgt Blandan's statue and its relocation from Algeria to France, as well as the emotional resonance it holds for individuals like Malek Kellou, who grew up in Algeria during the independence war.