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The article discusses a growing backlash against technology in American classrooms, driven in part by the increasing use of AI. As a result, there is a resurgence of traditional methods such as handwritten and oral exams. The sales of 'blue books', bound exam booklets for pen-and-paper tests, have more than doubled between 2022 and 2024. The trend is seen as a reaction against the over-reliance on technology in education, echoing historical debates about the introduction of new technologies in the classroom.

The article discusses how OpenAI's dominant position in the AI landscape is being challenged by a deal between Anthropic, Microsoft, and Nvidia, making AI more 'circular'. The 21st-century tech landscape has been characterized by a winner-takes-all approach, with companies like Microsoft, Google, Amazon, and Meta dominating their respective markets. However, the recent deal between Anthropic, Microsoft, and Nvidia signals a potential shift in this landscape, with AI becoming more collaborative and less dominated by a single player. The article highlights how this deal could be a significant development in the tech industry, potentially changing the dynamics of AI development and deployment.

The article discusses the challenge of replacing successful CEOs like Tim Cook of Apple and Warren Buffett, highlighting their achievements and the difficulty of filling their shoes. Tim Cook has led Apple to significant growth since taking over from Steve Jobs in 2011, with substantial increases in sales, operating profit, and market capitalization. The article questions how companies can replace leaders who have achieved such remarkable success, referencing other successful tech CEOs like Jensen Huang of Nvidia, Satya Nadella of Microsoft, and Sundar Pichai of Alphabet.

The article discusses the ongoing debate about healthcare costs in the United States, particularly in light of the recent government shutdown. Donald Trump proposed a new healthcare policy where the government would send money directly to individuals instead of subsidizing insurance companies. The article argues that instead of implementing this potentially market-disrupting idea, lawmakers should consider smaller-scale reforms to curb healthcare spending growth. Three potential areas for reform are mentioned, although not specified in the provided content. The article suggests that impactful changes are being overlooked in favor of populist schemes.

The article discusses how the concept of gift-giving and reciprocity is prevalent in Washington D.C., particularly in the Oval Office. It highlights how the government has seemingly given up on prosecuting corruption, and how everything appears to be for sale. The article references anthropological studies on gift-giving and the Maori belief that gifts contain a 'hau' or life force, which requires reciprocity. The author suggests that this concept is now observable in the U.S. political landscape, particularly in the context of the presidency.

The article discusses how Indians are becoming more fashionable due to the availability of cheap data, affordable clothing, and improved logistics. The rise of e-commerce has led to a decline in foot traffic on traditional shopping streets like Mumbai's Hill Road. Shop owners like Sheikh Aziz attribute this decline to the internet, as consumers can now shop from home. The article highlights the impact of digitalization on the retail industry in India.

The article discusses Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene's recent controversy and break with the Republican Party, specifically over her stance on releasing the Epstein files. This incident is part of a larger pattern of Greene's defiance of the party leadership and President Trump. The article suggests that Greene's actions are indicative of the broader divisions within the Republican Party and the challenges it faces in maintaining unity.

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, including mortgage lending in America, minimum wage policies, and the geopolitical dynamics involving Venezuela and Ukraine.

The American mortgage market is experiencing a significant decline, with the value of mortgage debt as a share of the housing stock at its lowest in 60 years. While this may seem like a positive development in the aftermath of the global financial crisis, it is actually a cause for concern as many families are being locked out of homeownership, labor mobility has slowed, and the construction of modest, single-family homes has decreased. The article argues that the mortgage market needs to be revived and that some rules introduced after the financial crisis have gone too far.

The article discusses how private equity firms are reshaping the American child care industry by acquiring and consolidating child care centers, introducing scale and efficiency but raising concerns about quality. The trend is driven by the potential for profit, with private equity firms targeting independent centers and chains. The article highlights the case of Little Friends, a highly sought-after independent child care center in Greenwich, Connecticut, whose owner has been courted by private equity firms. While some see the trend as a positive development, others raise concerns about the potential impact on the quality of care.

The article discusses how Texas Republicans' attempt to gerrymander congressional districts to their advantage has backfired. The state's new map, passed in August, aimed to increase the Republican majority from 25-13 to 30-8. However, a federal court panel threw out the map, citing racial discrimination. This move may have repercussions for Republicans, as voters in California have since approved a retaliatory gerrymander expected to flip five Republican-held seats. The article suggests that Texas Republicans may be punished by Hispanic voters for their actions.

The article argues that Europe must take control of its destiny to avoid being negatively impacted by global changes, particularly the rise of China. For decades, the European Union has been a leader in law and regulation, but it now faces challenges from China and other global powers. The article emphasizes the need for Europe to adapt and strengthen its position to avoid being exploited by other nations. It highlights the EU's unique ability to create blocs that are greater than the sum of their parts and suggests that Europe must leverage this strength to remain relevant in a changing world.

The article 'Welcome to Anything Goes America' discusses the potential consequences of Donald Trump's presidency on the norms and values of American politics and society. It contrasts Trump's potential actions with those of former President Harry Truman, who refused to exploit his office for personal gain after leaving office. The article suggests that Trump's presidency may lead to a loosening of rules and tolerance of corruption, and touches on various other topics related to American politics and economy.

The article discusses how companies can refocus on their core identity when they lose their way. It uses Nike as a case study, where the new CEO, Elliott Hill, is attempting to refound the company by rediscovering its essential character as a sports company. Hill believes that Nike had lost its obsession with sport and is now refocusing on athletes, which was the secret to its prior success. The article highlights the importance of refounding in business and how it can be a key strategy for companies looking to turn themselves around.

The article argues that governments should stop raising the minimum wage as there are now better tools available to fight poverty. It highlights that after a decade of increases, minimum wages in countries like Britain and Germany have reached significant levels relative to median income. The article suggests that while raising the minimum wage has been a popular tool for redistribution, it may not be the most effective way to address inequality and poverty.

Peruvian authorities, assisted by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, seized approximately 10,000 shark fins worth over $11.2 million at an industrial port outside Lima. The fins, sourced from threatened species, were destined for China and were part of a transnational wildlife trafficking operation. Three men were arrested in connection with the bust. The shark fin trade is a lucrative black market driven by demand for shark fin soup, a dish associated with status and celebration in Chinese cuisine. The practice of shark finning is banned in many countries but persists due to weak enforcement and high profits. Experts warn that the billion-dollar fin and meat trade is driving the extinction of iconic shark and ray species, and that critical action is needed to protect these species.

Dozens of gold coins from the Roman period were stolen from the Roman Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland, after two men overpowered a security guard. The value of the stolen coins is still being calculated, but police stressed that they have 'archeological value.' The heist is the latest in a series of robberies from cultural institutions around the world, including the Louvre Museum in Paris and the Oakland Museum of California. The guard was left shaken but unharmed, and police are still searching for the perpetrators. The theft has sparked concerns about the security of cultural institutions and the value of the artifacts being stolen.

Colombian scientists have recovered a cannon, three coins, and a porcelain cup from the wreckage of the Spanish galleon San José, which sank in 1708 with billions of dollars in treasure. The recovery is part of a scientific investigation into the wreckage and the causes of the sinking. The ship is believed to hold 11 million gold and silver coins, emeralds, and other precious cargo. The Colombian government has declared the site a 'protected archeological area' and is working to conserve the recovered artifacts. The ownership of the treasure is disputed among Colombia, Spain, and U.S.-based salvage company Sea Search Armada.

Hurricane Melissa's wind gusts reached a record-breaking 252 mph before making landfall in the Caribbean, according to data collected by a NOAA Hurricane Hunter airplane using dropsondes. The data was verified by researchers from the National Center for Atmospheric Research, who confirmed it was the highest wind speed ever recorded by a dropsonde. The storm caused catastrophic damage and dozens of deaths in Jamaica, Haiti, and other Caribbean islands.

Meta is warning Australian teenagers to delete their Facebook, Instagram, and Threads accounts within two weeks as the country prepares to implement a world-first social media ban on users under 16. The Australian government announced that social media platforms, including Meta's services, Snapchat, TikTok, X, and YouTube, must exclude users under 16 by December 10. Meta has contacted thousands of young account holders via SMS and email, giving them a two-week notice period to save their digital histories and update their contact information. The company estimates that there are 350,000 Australians aged 13-15 on Instagram and 150,000 on Facebook. The government's move aims to protect children from online harm, but some advocacy groups have expressed concerns about the ban, suggesting that regulating social media companies might be a more effective solution. Meta faces fines of up to $33 million if it fails to comply with the new regulations.

A new study published in the journal iScience has found that moss spores can survive for extended periods in outer space and still reproduce when returned to Earth. Researchers from Hokkaido University in Japan attached moss to the outside of the International Space Station for nine months, during which time it withstood harsh conditions. The study found that over 80% of the moss spores retained their viability and could still germinate after being returned to Earth. The findings have implications for understanding the limits of life on Earth and potentially supporting future human habitation beyond our planet. The study's authors suggest that the resilience of moss and other bryophytes could be useful for 'planetary greening and life support systems' in space.

NASA released close-up images of the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS as it makes a rare flyby through the solar system. The comet was first discovered in July and has been photographed several times. It is believed to be between 1,444 feet and 3.5 miles across and may have originated in a star system older than our own. NASA spacecraft will continue to track the comet as it moves through the solar system, with its closest approach to Earth on December 19. Scientists are excited about the opportunity to study the comet, which is visible from Earth using binoculars or a telescope.

A Russian sailor died and two others were hospitalized due to suspected poisoning on a Panama-flagged tanker, 'Swanlake', off the coast of Istanbul. The incident is believed to have been caused by a leak in the vessel's cold tank. Meanwhile, a separate incident in Istanbul involving a Turkish-German family who fell ill after consuming street food has led to the detention of 11 people, with investigators suggesting a substance used to combat bed bugs may have been the cause.

Mexican authorities have arrested a suspect, Jorge Armando N., accused of planning and ordering the assassination of Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Uruapan in Michoacan state. Manzo was killed on November 1 during a public event. The suspect allegedly used an encrypted messaging app to direct a criminal cell associated with the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. Two other individuals linked to the cell were found dead, allegedly to prevent further investigation. Manzo had been vocal about tackling violent crime and had joined street security patrols while in office.

China is bracing for a record 12.7 million university graduates in 2026, exacerbating the pressure on an already strained job market and slowing economy. The number of graduates has been increasing over the past decade and is expected to continue rising, fueling high youth unemployment and concerns about social stability. Officials are launching new initiatives to improve graduate employment, but experts warn that extraordinary policy measures are needed to address the issue.

Tesla is reportedly planning to stop using Chinese-made components in its US-built cars, aligning with the US's 'de-risk' strategy amid the tense geopolitical climate. However, analysts warn that a total 'de-risk' may be impractical due to China's manufacturing edge. Tesla may adopt a dual strategy, with a 'de-China' approach in the US and a fully localized approach in China. The move is expected to mitigate the impact of tariffs and trade disputes, but it may also lead to a 'big danger' - the possibility that China could dominate the entire EV technology stack.

Chinese scientists have developed a desktop-sized extreme ultraviolet (EUV) light source technology that can be used to manufacture 14-nanometre chips. The technology, developed by Hefei Lumiverse Technology, is a significant breakthrough as traditional EUV light sources are complex, massive, and expensive. The 14-nm chips produced using this technology are used to power industrial automation, electric vehicles, and smart wearables.

The cryptocurrency market continued its decline as bitcoin fell below $86,000, with a 2.1% drop, amid a month-long retreat. Traders are eyeing the $85,000 threshold, with some attributing the slump to heavy selling by large holders following the four-year cycle narrative. The market has been vulnerable to selling pressure after weeks of unwinding among fast-moving traders and lingering positioning from October's record run-up.

The head coach of the Hong Kong football team, Ashley Westwood, is set to leave his role after a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Singapore in an Asian Cup qualifying match. The loss has put Hong Kong's chances of qualifying for the 2027 Asian Cup finals in jeopardy. Westwood's position had been under scrutiny since the defeat, with supporters and the city's sports minister calling for his dismissal. The Football Association of Hong Kong, China (HKFA) is expected to announce Westwood's departure soon. Westwood was appointed in August last year and had a mixed record, winning 10 and losing 6 of his 20 matches in charge. Sources suggest that his relations with the HKFA had become strained, and he had been looking to move to a club football job.

The Hong Kong government plans to establish a wholly government-owned company to drive the development of the San Tin Technopole, a major project expected to create over 300,000 jobs and generate HK$250 billion annually. The company will have subsidiary firms to tap into market resources and capital, and key performance indicators (KPIs) will be set to ensure its success. The technopole is part of the Northern Metropolis megaproject and will include a strategically reserved 'white space' to support future expansion and the development of the city's university town.

Nexperia's Chinese owner, Wingtech Technology, has vowed to use 'all legal means' to regain control of the Dutch chipmaker after the Dutch government suspended its intervention in the company. The Dutch Enterprise Chamber had previously ruled to deprive Wingtech of shareholder control and oust former CEO Zhang Xuezheng. Wingtech claims that the Dutch government's revocation of an executive order is only the first step towards a solution and that more needs to be done to restore the rights of the Chinese shareholder. The dispute has led to an open spat between Nexperia's Dutch headquarters and its China operations, threatening the stability of chip supplies to global carmakers. Legal experts expect a prolonged legal fight that could take up to three and a half years to resolve.

The South China Morning Post (SCMP) highlights seven significant news stories from the past week, including China's tourists canceling trips to Japan due to a diplomatic spat, a Singapore minister apologizing for derogatory remarks about Hong Kong's football team, and a renowned mathematician returning to China from the US. The article summarizes these key events and provides context for the reader.

The COP30 climate talks in Belém, Brazil were evacuated due to a fire breaking out inside the venue. The fire was extinguished after six minutes, but 13 people were treated for smoke inhalation. The talks were disrupted, and negotiations were halted. The cause of the fire is unknown, but it is believed to have started in one of the country pavilions. The incident is likely to delay the closing of a deal in the talks, which aim to make progress in tackling climate change.

Former US Vice-President Dick Cheney was remembered at his funeral in Washington DC, where former President George W Bush delivered a eulogy praising Cheney as a 'thinker and listener'. The funeral was attended by both Democrats and Republicans, including former President Joe Biden and former Vice-Presidents Mike Pence and Al Gore. Cheney, who served under Bush from 2001-09, was a key architect of the 'war on terror' and an early advocate of the invasion of Iraq. In recent years, Cheney had fallen out of favor with the Republican Party due to his criticism of former President Donald Trump.

Over 250 people have been arrested in Charlotte, North Carolina, as part of the US government's escalating crackdown on undocumented immigration. The operation, dubbed 'Operation Charlotte's Web', has been criticized by local lawmakers and residents, who accuse federal agents of racial profiling and targeting innocent people. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) claims those arrested are 'dangerous criminal illegal aliens', including gang members and individuals convicted of various crimes. North Carolina's Democratic Governor Josh Stein and Charlotte's Mayor Vi Lyles have denounced the operation, citing concerns over racial profiling and the impact on the community.

Spain's Attorney General, Álvaro García Ortiz, has been convicted and forced to step down after being found guilty of revealing confidential information in a controversial case involving businessman Alberto González Amador, boyfriend of a senior conservative politician. The Supreme Court handed García Ortiz a two-year ban from the post and a fine of €7,200. The case has fueled tensions between the left-wing government of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and the right-wing opposition, with the government respecting the ruling but some left-wing politicians expressing outrage at what they saw as a politically motivated decision.

Australia's internet regulator has added Twitch to the country's teen social media ban, which comes into effect on December 10. The ban requires platforms to ensure under-16s cannot open accounts and existing ones are closed. Twitch, owned by Amazon, is primarily used for livestreaming and online social interaction, making it subject to the ban. The regulator, eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant, stated that the platform's main purpose is online social interaction, where users interact with each other about posted content. Twitch has announced that it will not allow under-16s to open accounts from December 10 and will deactivate existing under-16s accounts from January 9. The ban is part of the Australian government's efforts to reduce the risks and pressures children face on social media.

At least 41 people have died and nine are still missing in central Vietnam due to relentless rains and floods since the weekend. The deluge has submerged over 52,000 homes and left half a million households without power. The worst-hit areas include coastal cities Hoi An and Nha Trang, as well as a key coffee production belt in the central highlands. The region has been battered by extreme weather in recent months, with two typhoons causing deaths and destruction. The government has deployed military troops and police officers to set up emergency shelters and evacuate tens of thousands of residents. Natural disasters have caused $2 billion in damage between January and October this year.

The Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, has reopened nearly one year after a deadly car-ramming attack that killed six people, including a child. The market has invested over $288,000 in new security measures, including concrete blocks to prevent vehicles from entering the market area. The suspected attacker, Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, a 51-year-old doctor from Saudi Arabia, is on trial for murder and attempted murder. The market has resumed operations with over 140 merchants selling Christmas goods, and features an ice rink and a Ferris wheel.

Israeli authorities, in collaboration with European intelligence and law enforcement agencies, have uncovered a significant Hamas network in Europe, conducting coordinated counterterrorism raids across several countries. The operation, involving the Mossad, has led to the discovery of operational cells, weapons hideouts, and logistical channels intended to activate attacks on Israeli and Jewish civilians. Key findings include a weapons cache in Vienna belonging to Hamas operative Muhammad Naim, son of senior Hamas political bureau member Bassem Naim. The investigation has also implicated Turkey as a hub for Hamas activity, with operatives moving through Turkish territory. The operation reflects a growing recognition in Europe of the threat posed by Hamas beyond the Middle East.

A recent US House hearing highlighted the escalating violence against Christians in Nigeria, with lawmakers from both parties condemning the Nigerian government's inaction. The subcommittee chairman, Rep. Chris Smith, described Nigeria as 'ground zero' for anti-Christian persecution, citing mass killings, kidnappings, and impunity. Witnesses testified to the devastating impact on Christian communities, with estimates suggesting nearly 17,000 Christians have been killed since 2019. The hearing also touched on the Trump administration's designation of Nigeria as a 'Country of Particular Concern' and the need for greater humanitarian support and sanctions.

Russian President Vladimir Putin attended the AI Journey conference in Moscow where he watched a humanoid robot named Green perform a dance. The robot, developed by Sberbank, introduced itself to Putin and demonstrated its capabilities before dancing to a folk-pop song. Putin praised the robot, calling it 'very beautiful.' The event was attended by Putin's bodyguards, who appeared cautious during the robot's performance. The moment was widely replayed on state TV and contrasted with a recent incident where another AI-powered humanoid robot, Aidol, fell over during its debut.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that his health is 'fine' after a two-day medical checkup in Moscow. The announcement comes amid persistent rumors about his health, with speculation surrounding his age and potential health issues. Putin appeared at an artificial intelligence conference, where he was invited to use a new AI-powered kiosk that measures users' pulse and blood pressure. However, he declined to take the blood pressure test. The Russian president also expressed his views on longevity, suggesting that humans might eventually live to 150 years old.

The Buffalo Bills lost a heartbreaker to the Houston Texans 23-19, with quarterback Josh Allen expressing frustration throughout the game. The Bills had a chance to win in the final minutes but ultimately sealed their loss with Allen's second interception of the night. The team's record fell to 7-4, further behind the 9-2 Patriots in the AFC East. Allen was sacked a career-high eight times and hit four other times, prompting coach Sean McDermott to express concern for the quarterback's health.

A new upscale grocery store, Meadow Lane, in downtown Manhattan has been receiving death threats due to its high prices, but is also experiencing huge demand, selling out of products and imposing quotas on items. The store's founder, Sammy Nussdorf, known online as 'Brokeback Contessa,' has been targeted by online critics, including socialist Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, who have been vocal about their disapproval of the store's pricing. Despite the backlash, the store remains popular, with customers lining up to purchase items such as $15 gluten-free chicken nuggets and $625 tins of Siberian caviar. Nussdorf believes that the negative attention has actually increased his store's visibility and engagement.

The article criticizes Meghan Markle for her perceived self-importance and pomp, citing a recent Harper's Bazaar cover story that highlights her formalities and lack of humor. The author argues that Markle has become increasingly vainglorious since leaving her role as a working royal, and that her recent projects, such as her Netflix series and lifestyle brand, have been underwhelming and overhyped. The article also references Markle's attendance at Kris Jenner's 70th birthday party and the subsequent deletion of photos from Kim Kardashian's Instagram account, sparking rumors.

Supermodel Paulina Porizkova, at 60, has shared a 'get ready with me' video on Instagram, stripping down to her underwear to promote body positivity and self-acceptance. She discusses her daily routine, showcasing her imperfections and embracing aging with confidence. Porizkova has been a long-time advocate for unedited selfies and rejecting the alteration of her appearance on social media. In the video, she shares her thoughts on aging, stating that she is 'the best she's ever been' and that imperfections make us 'perfect originals.'

Robert Stirm, a Vietnam War veteran who was featured in a Pulitzer Prize-winning photo showing his reunion with his family after being a prisoner of war for over five years, has died at the age of 92. The iconic photo, titled 'Burst of Joy,' was taken in 1973 by Associated Press photographer Sal Veder and has become an enduring symbol of the end of the United States' involvement in Vietnam. Stirm was shot down during a bombing mission in 1967 and spent 1,966 days in captivity, including time at the notorious 'Hanoi Hilton' POW camp, where he was held with other prisoners, including the late Arizona Sen. John McCain. After his release, Stirm struggled with the aftermath of his captivity, including the breakdown of his marriage, which ended in divorce. He later retired from the Air Force and went on to work as a corporate pilot.

The article discusses Russia's increasingly bold provocations against the West, citing recent incidents such as a deadly drone and missile attack on western Ukraine, a Russian spy ship in British waters, and an attack on a Polish rail track funneling aid to Ukraine. The article suggests that these actions indicate a growing assertiveness on the part of Russia. The analysis is presented in a video format, with CNN's Clare Sebastian reporting on the developments.

CNN has conducted an exclusive investigation into the Tanzanian police's actions following a disputed election in October 2025. The investigation found evidence that Tanzanian police used deadly force on protesters, resulting in multiple deaths. Forensic analysis of graphic videos and imagery revealed how protesters were killed and indicated the presence of mass graves concealing the scale of the brutal crackdown.

US Vice President JD Vance's comments expressing hope that his Hindu wife, Usha, would convert to Christianity have sparked controversy in India and among the Indian diaspora. Critics argue that Vance's remarks are a reminder of India's colonial past and the country's complicated history with Christian proselytizing. Some have also accused Vance of denigrating Hindus and South Asians, and of promoting a Christian-centric view of America. Vance has defended his comments, stating that he respects his wife's free will and that he hopes she will come to share his Christian faith. The controversy has highlighted the complex issues surrounding religious freedom, identity, and cultural heritage in both the US and India.

The US Navy is attempting to recover two aircraft, an F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet and an MH-60 helicopter, that crashed in the South China Sea while operating off the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz. The crashes occurred within 30 minutes of each other in late October, and all crew members were rescued. US experts warn that if China were to recover the aircraft, they could gain valuable insights into US technology and tactics. The USNS Salvor, a Safeguard-class salvage ship, is on the scene conducting recovery operations. China has asserted ownership over the South China Sea and has been fortifying its territorial claims, which the US says threatens freedom of navigation.

Two passenger trains collided in the Czech Republic, injuring dozens of people, four seriously. The accident occurred near Ceske Budejovice, around 70 miles south of Prague. Preliminary information suggests one of the trains passed a stop signal. The crash is under investigation, and traffic between Ceske Budejovice and Pilsen has been halted until the afternoon. The collision caused significant damage to both trains, with firefighters having to free the driver of one of the trains. The region's governor reported that nine people suffered moderate injuries, while 25 others were lightly injured. Transport Minister Martin Kupka stated that the investigation is ongoing, but the initial findings indicate that one train went through a red signal.

A fire broke out at the COP30 climate talks in Belem, Brazil, disrupting last-minute efforts to strike a global deal among over 190 countries. The fire, thought to be caused by an electrical fault, forced delegates to evacuate and resulted in 13 people being treated for smoke inhalation. The incident will likely make the already challenging task of negotiations even harder, as representatives struggle to reach agreements on issues like fossil fuels, climate finance, and critical minerals.

Nearly 1,000 people were evacuated from three villages on the Indonesian island of Java after the eruption of Mount Semeru, the island's highest volcano. The eruption sent hot ash, lava, and gas up to eight miles down the volcano's slopes, forcing the rescue of over 170 people, including climbers, porters, and tourists. No casualties were reported during the evacuation, but two motorcyclists were severely burned after crashing on a bridge covered in hot ash. The volcano's alert level was raised to the highest level, and a five-mile danger zone was established around the volcano.

The article discusses the World Cup play-off draw for European teams, with Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland learning their opponents. Northern Ireland will face Italy, Wales will face Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Republic of Ireland will face the Czech Republic. The winners of these semi-finals will then compete for a spot in the World Cup finals in North America next summer. England and Scotland have already qualified for the tournament.

The article discusses the challenges faced by individuals holding 'weak' passports, which limit their ability to travel freely and easily. Three individuals from South Africa, China, and India share their experiences of dealing with costly fees, long waits, and humiliating scrutiny when traveling abroad. They recount the difficulties of obtaining visas, providing extensive documentation, and being subject to strict requirements. The article highlights the unequal system of travel restrictions and the impact it has on individuals' personal and professional lives.

Japan's cabinet has approved a $135.5 billion stimulus package to boost the country's slowing economy and support consumers affected by inflation. The package, the largest since the Covid-19 pandemic, is based on three pillars: addressing rising prices, achieving a strong economy, and strengthening defense and diplomatic capabilities. It includes measures such as expanding local government grants, providing subsidies for electricity and gas bills, and eliminating taxes on gasoline. The government plans to fund the package through revenue and issuing government bonds, with a supplementary budget bill to be passed by year-end. Experts have expressed concerns that the stimulus may not address the underlying inflation pressures and may spook Japanese government bond markets.

Singapore has raised its 2025 economic growth forecast to around 4% due to stronger-than-expected growth in the third quarter, driven by manufacturing and export demand. The economy grew 4.2% in the third quarter, exceeding expectations. However, the government warned that growth is likely to cool in 2026 due to the impact of US tariffs on global demand. The Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) cited stronger demand from key trading partners, the AI boom, and easing US-China trade tensions as factors contributing to the upgrade. For 2026, the economy is expected to grow at a range of 1% to 3%.

The article discusses the ongoing efforts to uncover mass graves in Syria following the 14-year civil war that ended with the overthrow of dictator Bashar al-Assad. Families of the missing have been searching for the remains of their loved ones, with at least 60 mass graves identified across the country. The new government faces a complex task in exhuming and identifying the bodies, requiring international assistance due to a lack of technical expertise and forensic capabilities. The Syrian government, international organizations, and local teams are working together to address this issue, with training programs underway to equip local teams with the necessary skills.

Netflix, Comcast, and Paramount have submitted bids to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, a media conglomerate that owns Warner Bros. movie studio, HBO, and cable networks like CNN and TNT. The bidders hope to strengthen their positions in the streaming wars. Each bidder has made a pitch to Warner Bros. Discovery, highlighting the benefits of a potential acquisition. The outcome of the sale could significantly impact the entertainment industry.

The 2026 World Cup is approaching, with 42 teams already qualified and six spots remaining to be determined. The tournament will feature 48 countries and be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The article provides an update on the qualification process, listing the countries that have secured their spots and detailing the remaining play-offs. It highlights the performance of various teams, including the host nations, Japan, New Zealand, and Iran, among others.

The article discusses the impact of Chinese investment in Laos, particularly in the tourism and infrastructure sectors. The Laos-China Railway has brought a surge in Chinese tourists, but local businesses are struggling to benefit as Chinese operators dominate the market. The influx of Chinese money has also led to concerns about cultural heritage and the distribution of wealth. While some Laotians see opportunities, others are worried about the country's increasing dependence on China.

The article tells the story of Singaporean Mae Lam and her Lebanese husband Adib Ballout, who run an eco-friendly olive farm in southern Lebanon. Despite the challenges posed by the region's conflict and unstable environment, the family has persevered in maintaining their farm, Beit Ballout, which produces high-quality olive oil using traditional methods. The farm is run organically, with the help of Syrian and Palestinian refugees, and the family spends up to six months a year there. The article highlights the family's dedication to sustainable farming practices and their efforts to promote a positive image of Lebanon through their business.

French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin has stated that drug crime is a threat 'at least equivalent to terrorism' after the murder of Mehdi Kessaci, brother of anti-narcotics activist Amine Kessaci, in Marseille. Darmanin and Interior Minister Laurent Nunez visited Marseille, promising to use methods similar to counter-terrorism to combat drug crime. They announced additional resources, including more magistrates and court clerks, and a new anti-drugs law with a specialized prosecutor's office in Paris. The murder has highlighted Marseille's struggles with drug crime, with over a dozen killed since the start of the year.

The NPR Pop Culture Happy Hour podcast discusses various new releases in film and television, including 'Wicked: For Good', 'All's Fair', 'A Man on the Inside', 'The Beast In Me', 'Now You See Me: Now You Don't', 'The Running Man', 'Death By Lightning', and 'Pluribus'. The podcast reviews these titles, exploring their themes, performances, and overall impact. The episodes cover a range of genres, from musicals and comedy to thriller and drama.

A Mexican woman, Ary Gisell Silva, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for her involvement in the killings of two Australian surfer brothers, Jake and Callum Robinson, and an American man, Jack Carter Rhoad, in Baja California, Mexico. The three were camping in a remote beachside area when they were killed in an attempted robbery of their pickup truck. Silva admitted to instigating the robbery and was found guilty of crimes related to 'violent robbery'. Three other individuals have been arrested and charged with murder, but are being tried separately.