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A new industry of AI companions is emerging, with young people like Ms. Jiao creating virtual partners through chatbots like ChatGPT. This trend may have profound implications for society and what it means to be human. Ms. Jiao, a 22-year-old from Guangzhou, has never been in a real-life romantic relationship and has shaped her chatbot into her ideal man. The chatbot responds in a way that is tailored to her preferences and remembers personal details about her. This phenomenon raises questions about the potential consequences of relying on AI companions for emotional support and intimacy. The article highlights the growing trend of people turning to AI for companionship and the potential societal implications of this shift.

The article discusses how Chinese elites view President Donald Trump as a 'golden opportunity' for China, perceiving him as 'very soft' on their country. Chinese leader Xi Jinping is not intimidated by Trump, and instead, Beijing insiders believe they can manipulate him to their advantage. The article highlights China's growing confidence in its dealings with the US under Trump's presidency.

The article discusses a scandal involving kickbacks and money-laundering centered on Energoatom, Ukraine's state-owned nuclear-power agency, which is undermining the country's defence against Russia's ongoing invasion. The scandal has led to the removal of two ministers and the arrest of one, with more high-level casualties expected. The article argues that the scandal is not only infuriating for Ukraine's Western supporters but also devastating for ordinary Ukrainians who are fighting on the front or living under daily Russian attacks. The alleged misappropriation of huge sums, potentially $100m, has deprived Ukrainian troops of resources during an existential struggle.

The article discusses Erik Prince, the founder of Blackwater, a private military company (PMC), and how he is seeking new opportunities amidst global chaos. Fifteen years ago, Prince was forced to sell Blackwater due to scandals and negative headlines, and he left the US for the United Arab Emirates. However, with the current global landscape, Prince sees potential for his mercenary services again. The article highlights the changing times and how Prince's return is a sign of the shifting global politics and the resurgence of private military companies.

The article discusses Mexico's surprising record on murder and analyzes Claudia Sheinbaum's security strategy, comparing it to Donald Trump's approach to dealing with drug gangs. While Trump has taken a militarized approach, resulting in civilian casualties, Sheinbaum's strategy is presented as effective. The article touches on various global issues, including the situation in Venezuela and Ukraine, and critiques certain policies and actions taken by governments and leaders.

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 good news 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 America's allies are facing a challenging time under President Donald Trump's administration, which is critical of countries that do not contribute sufficiently to their defense. Denmark is highlighted as a loyal ally that has tried to be useful to America. The article notes that Trump's disinterest in playing the role of global cop is tough on countries like Denmark, which have acted as loyal sheriff's deputies. The piece also touches upon the broader implications of Trump's stance for other countries that have been helpful to America, either by contributing to alliances or holding strategic territories.

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.

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 Harry Truman, who maintained integrity and refused to exploit his presidency for personal gain. The article suggests that Trump's presidency may lead to a loosening of rules and tolerance of corruption, potentially damaging the prestige and dignity of the office. It touches on various themes, including the commercialization of the presidency, the impact on Ukraine, Europe, and America, and the need for integrity in leadership.

The article argues that governments should stop raising the minimum wage, citing that after a decade of increases, there are now better tools available to fight poverty. It highlights that many countries, including Britain, Germany, and the United States (specifically some states and cities), have significantly raised their minimum wages, making it a popular tool for redistribution that costs governments little and wins votes. However, the author suggests that this approach may no longer be the most effective way to address inequality and poverty.

Texas quarterback Arch Manning had a standout performance in the Longhorns' 52-37 win over Arkansas, scoring six total touchdowns, including a receiving touchdown on a trick play. This achievement puts him in unique territory within the Manning family as neither his uncles Peyton nor Eli ever recorded a receiving touchdown in their NFL and NCAA careers. The win improves Texas' record to 8-3, keeping them in contention for the College Football Playoff. The article also highlights Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian's recent comments denying rumors of him leaving the team, emphasizing his commitment to winning championships at Texas.

Disgraced former TV anchor Stephanie Hockridge has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for her role in a multi-million-dollar COVID fraud scheme involving Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. Hockridge and her husband Nathan Reis founded a lending-services company called Blueacorn, which charged borrowers kickbacks and submitted fraudulent loan applications. They processed over $63 million in bogus PPP loans and personally obtained over $300,000. Hockridge will serve her time at the Federal Prison Camp in Bryan, Texas, a minimum-security facility also housing Ghislaine Maxwell and Elizabeth Holmes. The case marks one of the highest-profile PPP fraud cases involving a public figure.

Eddie Murphy, the 64-year-old 'Coming to America' star, has revealed in a recent interview with The Associated Press that he regrets turning down three blockbuster movies: 'Ghostbusters,' 'Rush Hour,' and 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit.' Murphy stated that he chose to do 'Beverly Hills Cop' instead of 'Ghostbusters' and found 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit' to be 'ridiculous' at the time. Despite these regrets, Murphy's career has not suffered, with notable roles in films like 'The Nutty Professor,' 'Dr. Dolittle,' and the 'Shrek' franchise. A new Netflix documentary, 'Being Eddie,' looks back at Murphy's legendary career as a comedian, and the fifth 'Shrek' movie is scheduled for release in 2027.

Jordon Hudson, girlfriend of Bill Belichick, was spotted on the sideline before UNC's football game against Duke, wearing a ring from her cheerleading days at Bridgewater State. The Tar Heels ultimately lost 32-25 to Duke, and Hudson's presence came after a reported altercation with Belichick's daughter-in-law, Jen, who berated her for her relationship with Bill and her fashion choices. The loss knocked UNC out of bowl contention, and the team is now 4-7.

Paramount Skydance is favored to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) due to its willingness to keep CNN as part of the deal, which is seen as a key factor in gaining regulatory approval from the Trump administration. Other bidders, Comcast and Netflix, face regulatory hurdles and potential antitrust issues. Paramount Skydance's owners, Larry Ellison and David Ellison, are seen as having a close relationship with Trump, which could facilitate the approval process. The deal is valued at around $70 billion, with Paramount Skydance potentially paying $27 per share, lower than WBD CEO David Zaslav's desired $30 per share.

The parents of 18-month-old Chloe Wiegand, who fell to her death from an open cruise ship window in 2019, have divorced. Alan and Kimberly Wiegand split in September 2024. Chloe's death occurred while she was on vacation with her family on Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas. The family sued Royal Caribbean, claiming poorly designed windows and lack of warning signs were responsible for Chloe's death, but later withdrew the case. Kimberly is now dating Dustin Wilson, an air-conditioning repairman with a criminal record, while Alan was honored for saving a teenager's life.

A 30-year-old former substitute teacher, Carissa Jane Smith, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for paying middle school students for sex and providing them with drugs and alcohol. Smith, who worked at multiple schools in the Dixon R-1 School District in Missouri, was arrested in November last year and charged with 19 felony counts, including statutory rape and child sex trafficking. She pleaded guilty to lesser charges in September, including two counts of sexual contact with a student and one count of first-degree endangering the welfare of a child. The abuse took place at various locations, including Smith's home, car, and isolated areas. Smith allegedly took steps to cover up her actions, including warning victims not to talk about their encounters and destroying evidence.

Three men, Christopher Svochak, Richard Penskoski, and Ricardo Yepez, have been charged with felony hate crimes for harassing Muslim students during dawn prayer at the University of South Florida. The men allegedly approached the students, shouted insults, and waved bacon, causing the students to fear for their safety. The incident was captured on video and sparked a multi-day investigation. The university has increased patrols and campus police visibility, and community leaders have denounced the incident.

Former President Donald Trump claimed that Chicagoans are calling for his intervention amid a recent crime wave in the city, which is run by Democrats. The assertion came after a violent weekend in Chicago, where multiple teens were shot and police officers were attacked during a riot in the downtown area. Trump criticized the city's leadership, including Mayor Brandon Johnson and Governor JB Pritzker, for refusing federal help. The violence followed a recent incident where a man with a lengthy criminal history was accused of setting a woman on fire on a Chicago train.

The article discusses how homeowners in mainland China are turning to superstition to sell their properties in a depressed market where second-hand home prices have been falling for over three years. Homeowners are using various superstitious practices such as praying in temples, buying 'quick-sale' talismans, and using lucky emojis to try and enhance their luck. Real estate agents report that homes are taking longer to sell, and buyers are becoming more aggressive in price negotiations, leading to lower prices. The article highlights the desperation and pessimism among homeowners as they struggle to sell their properties.

India and China are aligning on climate issues at Cop30, driven by a tentative thaw in their relations. Analysts believe that combining China's cleantech expertise with India's energy needs could redefine Asia's decarbonization trajectory. The two countries are increasing trade in green-energy components and pushing for more climate finance and fairer rules. This convergence could lead to a regional model of low-cost decarbonization that other countries in the Global South could follow.

China has updated its civil service medical rules to allow individuals with certain chronic diseases to be eligible for public service roles. The new rules, issued by the General Office of the Central Committee's Organisation Department and the National Health Commission, will enable carriers of the thalassaemia gene, those with polycystic kidney disease, and individuals with thyroid conditions to apply for civil service jobs if they meet specific health criteria. Campaigners and legal groups have hailed this move as a landmark in the fight against unfair employment practices, as many qualified candidates were previously rejected due to these conditions. The change is particularly significant amid a tough job market in China, where these medical standards were also adopted by other sectors such as education and technology, raising concerns about workplace discrimination.

China's winter sports industry is experiencing rapid growth driven by government support and increasing participation, particularly among young people. The 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics sparked the boom, which has led to increased spending on equipment, travel, and resorts. The industry is expected to continue growing, with the market projected to reach 1.5 trillion yuan by 2029. Families are changing their holiday habits, with some spending up to 20,000 yuan on winter sports-related activities. The growth is driven by young consumers born in the 2000s and 2010s who are influencing their families' spending decisions.

Hong Kong's financial secretary, Paul Chan Mo-po, has stated that the city's bank deposits reaching HK$19 trillion prove its status as a safe haven for capital. Despite the ongoing tariff war, Hong Kong's goods exports have remained resilient, with a year-on-year increase for 19 consecutive months and an 11.3% rise in the first three quarters compared to the same period last year. Chan attributed the growth to China's deepened economic and trade relations with ASEAN and the Global South, as well as the restructuring of global supply chains and industrial chains.

India has inaugurated a high-altitude airbase near its disputed border with China, which analysts believe is part of New Delhi's long-term efforts to upgrade its border infrastructure rather than a direct threat to Beijing. The Mudh-Nyoma Air Force Station is located at a height of about 13,700 feet and is only 30km from the Line of Actual Control. Despite its strategic significance, analysts think it is unlikely to derail the thaw in China-India relations, with China still holding a substantial advantage in infrastructure in the area.

China has made significant advancements in military technology, with key scientists behind its latest stealth fighter and aircraft carrier being promoted to the Chinese Academy of Engineering. The promotions highlight China's gains in areas such as plane engines and carrier launch systems. The honourees include Wang Yongqing, chief designer of the J-35A stealth fighter, Huang Weina, lead designer of the WS-19 engine, and Lu Junyong, a key researcher behind the Fujian carrier's electromagnetic catapult system.

The article discusses the growing demand for dietary supplements, driven by social media promotion and the desire for longevity. Experts advise on the effectiveness of various supplements, including those for cognitive health, gut health, and beauty. The global supplement market is expected to more than double from $203 billion to $454 billion by 2035. Celebrities such as Jennifer Aniston and Joe Rogan endorse various supplements, contributing to their popularity. The article highlights the need for consumers to be informed about the efficacy of different supplements.

A 1,700-year-old Roman sarcophagus was discovered in Budapest, Hungary, containing the remains of a young woman and numerous artifacts, including glass vessels, bronze figures, and coins. The sarcophagus was found sealed and untouched, providing a rare glimpse into Roman funerary customs and the life of the woman buried within. Archaeologists believe the woman was of higher social status due to the richness of the grave goods and the care with which she was buried. The discovery is significant not only for its scientific value but also for the emotional insight it provides into the devotion of the people who buried her.

The captain of a motorboat that crashed into a sailboat off Italy's Amalfi coast, killing a U.S. tourist Adrienne Vaughan, has been sentenced to four years and nine months in jail for manslaughter. Vaughan, 45, was the head of the U.S. branch of Bloomsbury publishing house and was on vacation with her family. The captain, Elio Persico, 32, had tested positive for cocaine and alcohol at the time of the incident. The crash occurred in August 2023, and Persico's lawyer confirmed the sentence after a plea bargain.

The G20 summit in South Africa adopted a 122-point declaration despite opposition from the United States, which boycotted the event. The declaration focuses on issues affecting poor countries, such as climate-related disasters and sovereign debt levels. South Africa, as the host country, set the agenda and pushed for the declaration, which was unanimously adopted by the other members. The U.S. had put pressure on South Africa not to adopt the declaration, but the country refused to be 'bullied.' The summit's agenda included making progress on solving long-standing problems in the developing world, such as climate change and global inequality. The U.S. boycott was sparked by President Trump's claims that South Africa is pursuing racist anti-white policies. The G20 is a group of 21 members representing around 85% of the world's economy and more than half the global population.

A grizzly bear attacked a group of students and teachers on Thursday in the Bella Coola Valley of British Columbia's Central Coast, injuring several people. The incident occurred near the Nuxalk Nation, and multiple people were hurt, with two critically injured and two others seriously hurt. The bear is still on the loose, and authorities have urged residents to stay away from the area. The Nuxalk Nation chief warned people not to look for the bear and to stay indoors. The conservation service is continuing efforts to locate and capture the bear.

The pilot of an Indian HAL Tejas combat aircraft died after it crashed during a demonstration flight at the Dubai Air Show. The crash occurred around 2:10 p.m. local time on November 21. The Indian Air Force confirmed the incident and expressed condolences to the pilot's family. A court of inquiry is being set up to investigate the cause of the crash. The Tejas is India's indigenous fighter aircraft, built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), and is expected to bolster India's depleted fighter fleet. The crash happened on the last day of the week-long Dubai Air Show, which saw major aircraft orders by Emirates and FlyDubai.

Colombian authorities have made their largest cocaine bust in a decade, seizing 14 tons of cocaine at the country's main Pacific port, Buenaventura. The discovery was made with the help of sniffer dogs, and the cocaine was hidden in dozens of 110-pound sacks inside a warehouse. The seizure is valued at over $388 million and is seen as a significant blow against drug trafficking. The bust comes amid tensions between Colombia and the US, with the White House criticizing Colombia's anti-drug policies and imposing financial sanctions on President Gustavo Petro.

The NATO military exercise 'Neptune Strike' is underway in the Mediterranean Sea, with the US and nine allies practicing long-range strikes on NATO's eastern flank. The exercise aims to defend critical waterways and counter evolving Russian threats. The US has taken a smaller role in the exercise, with allied nations being pressed by the Trump administration to increase their defense spending. Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, head of US European Command, stated that NATO needs to be prepared to fight concurrent conflicts with Russia and China by 2027. The exercise comes as Russia continues to test the US-led alliance with frequent incursions into NATO airspace.

The mayor of Uruapan, Mexico, Carlos Manzo, was assassinated on November 1 at a public event. Seven of his bodyguards have been arrested for their alleged involvement in his murder, which is believed to be linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Manzo was an outspoken critic of cartel violence and had been vocal about extortion and threats against avocado growers in the region. The arrest of the seven bodyguards follows the detention of a man described as the mastermind behind the murder, who has links to the CJNG. The killing has triggered mass protests and raised questions about the failure of Manzo's security detail to prevent the attack.

Air traffic near Eindhoven in the Netherlands was suspended due to unidentified drones near the airport. The drones were first spotted near a nearby air force base, and despite attempts to shoot them down, they escaped. This incident is part of a series of similar events at military installations and airports in northern Europe, with some attributing it to 'hybrid warfare' by Russia, which has been denied by the Kremlin. The Dutch Defence Minister stated that 'measures have been taken' without elaborating. The incident has led to calls for improved drone defenses among European countries.

Irish fashion designer Paul Costelloe has died at the age of 80 in London after a short illness. He was known for being the personal designer to the late Diana, Princess of Wales, and for elevating Irish fashion to the global stage. Costelloe was born in Dublin and studied at the Grafton Academy of Fashion Design before moving to Paris. He set up his own label in 1979 and presented collections at major fashion weeks. He was praised by Irish leaders for his contributions to Irish fashion and his legacy.

Three people have been arrested in Bengaluru, India, in connection with a daring $800,000 heist in which armed men posing as central bank officials robbed an ATM cash van. The police recovered 57.6m rupees of the stolen money and are looking for two to three more suspects. The robbery took place in broad daylight, and the thieves used fake registration plates and selected locations with minimal CCTV coverage to transfer the cash. The police are investigating the role of the cash transport company CMS and possible violations of guidelines for transferring cash.

A 23-year-old Chechen woman, Aishat Baimuradova, fled Russia seeking freedom but was found murdered in Armenia. The article explores her background, the circumstances surrounding her death, and the broader context of Chechen women escaping repressive conditions in Chechnya, often facing danger and violence. Aishat's case is the first known instance of a Chechen woman dying under suspicious circumstances after fleeing Russia. The investigation is ongoing, with Armenian authorities looking into two unnamed individuals. The article highlights the challenges faced by Chechen women who escape and the potential involvement of Chechen authorities or individuals connected to them in Aishat's murder.

Former US ambassador to Ukraine William Taylor urges President Donald Trump to shift diplomatic pressure from the Ukrainian government back to Russia to help secure a better end to the war for Kyiv. Taylor made the statement in an interview with CNN, suggesting that the US could still influence the outcome of the conflict by focusing on Russia.

Germany plans to build Europe's strongest army by 2035, with a new conscription bill aiming to boost its military personnel to 260,000 soldiers and 200,000 reservists. The bill, agreed upon by the coalition government, will initially focus on voluntary enlistment with incentives such as a higher starting salary. If quotas are not met, mandatory call-ups will be considered. The move is in response to the perceived threat from Russia and a shift in US foreign policy. The plan has been met with controversy, with some opposing mandatory conscription.

The article discusses the recent escalation of Israeli settler attacks and land grabs in the occupied West Bank, which is considered illegal under international law and is designated as Palestinian territory in the event of a future Palestinian state. Palestinian residents and Israeli peace activists warn that these actions make the prospect of a future Palestinian state more remote. The article is accompanied by a CNN report by Nic Robertson.

The article discusses the deteriorating situation in Mozambique due to hunger and the resurgence of ISIS. The Trump administration's dismantling of USAID created a void that ISIS has filled. CNN's Nick Paton Walsh traveled to Mozambique to witness the changes firsthand. The article highlights the consequences of the US withdrawal from the region and the rise of terrorist activities.

The article discusses a concerning trend of increasing cancer diagnoses among young people, particularly colorectal cancer. Dr. Sanjay Gupta interviews Dr. Kimmie Ng, a gastrointestinal oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, about the rise in young-onset colorectal cancer cases. The experts discuss the alarming rate at which young adults are being diagnosed with cancer, the challenges they face, and the need for research to understand the underlying causes. Dr. Ng shares her experience of seeing more young patients with colorectal cancer and the establishment of the Young-Onset Colorectal Cancer Center at Dana-Farber to address this issue.

The United States is considering selling F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, but concerns have been raised about China's ability to exploit the technology. Experts and retired senior military commanders warn that China has a history of stealing American military technology, including stealth designs and advanced avionics. Despite these concerns, some argue that the strategic benefits of strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia outweigh the risks. Retired General Charles Wald and other experts believe that Saudi Arabia's acquisition of F-35s would not undermine Israel's qualitative military edge and could enhance regional security against Iran.

The article discusses the ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, with Israel launching near-daily strikes against Hezbollah's infrastructure and operatives. Hezbollah is rebuilding its military arsenal on Israel's northern border, despite a US-brokered ceasefire agreement last year. Israeli security experts warn that another war between the two sides could be on the horizon. Hezbollah is rearming in civilian areas, and the UN peacekeeping force, UNIFIL, is criticized for not fulfilling its mandate to disarm the group. The article highlights the complexities of the conflict, with Iran backing Hezbollah and providing financial and military support.

An Indian Air Force Tejas fighter jet crashed during the Dubai Air Show on November 21, 2025, resulting in the death of the pilot. The incident occurred during a flying display, with videos on social media showing the aircraft bursting into flames upon impact. The Indian Air Force and Dubai Media Office confirmed the crash and expressed regret over the loss of life. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the accident. The Tejas is India's indigenous fighter aircraft, built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, and is expected to bolster India's depleted fighter fleet.

Russian President Vladimir Putin attended an artificial intelligence conference in Moscow where he reported being in good health after a recent two-day medical checkup. Putin's health has been subject to speculation, with various rumors and observations suggesting potential health issues. At the conference, Putin interacted with an AI-powered robot and discussed the possibility of humans living up to 150 years. He also joked about achieving immortality through biotechnology and organ transplants, a topic he previously discussed with other world leaders.

Teachers in British Columbia, Canada, are being hailed as 'heroes' after they fended off a grizzly bear that attacked a school group on a trail, injuring 11 people, including fourth and fifth-grade students. The incident occurred in Bella Coola, a town over 400 miles north of Vancouver. The teachers used pepper spray and a bear banger to repel the bear. Two of the injured were in critical condition, while others were treated at the scene or taken to hospital. Officials are still searching for the bear, believed to have been previously injured. The community is in distress, but officials are working closely with the Nuxalk Nation to ensure awareness and shared safety information.

The Ukrainian towns of Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad are under intense attack by Russian forces, with Ukrainian soldiers surrounded and fighting for control. Russian forces are advancing from multiple directions, and the Ukrainian forces are struggling to maintain their positions. The towns are strategically significant, with Pokrovsk being a major road and rail intersection. If Russia captures the towns, it would gain a platform to redirect its offensive efforts towards Ukraine's principal defensive urban centers. The situation is dire, with civilians still living in the towns and evacuation being difficult.

Flights at Eindhoven Airport in the Netherlands were suspended due to multiple drone sightings but have since resumed. The country's police and military were called to the site, and an investigation is ongoing. The airport is used for both military and civilian purposes. This incident follows a similar event where the Dutch military used weapons against drones sighted above the air force base in Volkel. Various airports in Europe have been temporarily closed in the past due to drone sightings, raising concerns about potential security threats.

The article discusses a new trend of 'moral migrants' relocating from Western countries to Russia due to shared values, particularly conservative Christian beliefs. Russia introduced a 'shared values visa' last August, which has attracted 2,275 Western applicants. The article profiles several individuals and families who have made the move, citing reasons such as opposition to LGBT policies and a desire for a more traditional society. While some have had positive experiences, others have faced challenges, including scams and difficulties with the education system. The article explores the motivations behind this migration and the potential implications for Russia's image as a beacon of conservative values.

The article discusses the global market volatility and the factors contributing to it. The past week saw a significant downturn in global stocks, with the Nasdaq experiencing its wildest swing since President Donald Trump's 'Liberation Day' shock in April. The article identifies four potential factors driving the market volatility: AI anxiety, crypto concerns, delayed data, and fiscal feelings. The week's events, including Nvidia's earnings report and the U.K. budget announcement, are also analyzed. The article concludes that the market is likely to remain volatile in the coming week due to the multiple factors at play.

Jo Malone, the founder of Jo Malone London, sold her fragrance brand to Estée Lauder Companies in 1999 and regrets giving up the rights to use her name. Malone advises young entrepreneurs to think twice before selling their name along with their business, citing the difficulties she faced in using her name again. The article discusses the legal implications of selling a business built on one's name and the potential consequences of breaching contractual obligations or infringing on trademarks. Malone's experience is compared to other British entrepreneurs who have sold eponymous brands and later regretted it.

The article discusses the author's experience as a Singaporean academic living in London, where she faces rising xenophobia and racism. She contrasts her experiences as a majority in Singapore with the challenges of navigating racial dynamics and prejudice in Britain. Despite feeling unsettled, the author remains committed to allyship and community building in London.

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The article discusses the reconstruction of Mariupol, Ukraine, after its capture by Russian forces in 2022. The city has undergone significant changes, with new apartment buildings and infrastructure being constructed. However, many Ukrainian residents are unable to afford the new apartments, and some have had their property confiscated by the Russian-installed government. The reconstruction effort has been criticized for being a 'Potemkin village,' with many problems, including a chronic water shortage, remaining unaddressed. The article also highlights the 'Russification' of Mariupol, with Ukrainian monuments being dismantled and replaced with Russian symbols.