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China's central bank has set the yuan's daily reference rate against the US dollar at its strongest level in over a year, driven by expectations of a US Federal Reserve rate cut in December. Analysts attribute the yuan's outperformance to Beijing's geopolitical leverage, despite economic headwinds. The yuan has appreciated against the US dollar, euro, and yen, with experts predicting further appreciation if the Fed cuts rates.

China's private defence companies are seeing opportunities due to escalating global conflicts, such as the Ukraine war and Kashmir conflict, as customers seek affordable and reliable military equipment. Industry insiders believe that the international landscape is favourable for private enterprises' participation in the defence industry. China's military-civil fusion strategy has enabled private companies to increasingly enter the sector, contributing to the country's ambition to build a modern military by 2035 and a 'world-class' force by 2049.

China's commercial space sector is gaining attention globally, particularly with the upcoming launch of LandSpace's reusable rocket, Zhuque-3. A successful launch could significantly boost China's space industry by lowering the cost of launching satellites into orbit. The development has drawn interest from aerospace experts and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk. China's commercial space industry has grown rapidly in recent years, with over 90,000 space-related companies, nearly 60% of which were founded in the past three years. The country's efforts to master reusable rockets, a technology pioneered by SpaceX, could help China rival the US in space technology.

The UK-based fintech firm Revolut plans to set up operations in Hong Kong after meeting with the city's Financial Secretary, Paul Chan Mo-po, in London. Chan is currently on a visit to the UK, where he is promoting Hong Kong's growing finance and innovation and technology (I&T) sectors to UK enterprises and professionals. Chan highlighted the city's business environment and the influx of international capital, encouraging more investment and talent to seize opportunities in Hong Kong.

The article discusses Madeira, a Portuguese island known for its lush hiking trails and breathtaking scenery, earning it nicknames like 'the Garden in the Ocean' and 'the Island of Eternal Spring'. The island's diverse landscapes, including laurel forests and volcanic rock formations, make it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Madeira's unique environment and comfortable year-round temperatures have inspired various monikers and attracted tourists.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's administration has introduced a massive 21.3 trillion yen economic stimulus package, sparking concerns among economists. The package includes cash handouts and subsidies aimed at voters affected by inflation, but its debt-fuelled nature has raised alarms. Economists fear the plan will drive up import costs, exacerbating the issue of a weak yen. The package is the largest stimulus since the pandemic and Takaichi's first major economic initiative since taking office.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's anti-corruption campaign has faced a setback with the resignation of his senior political secretary, Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin, amid allegations of corruption. Shamsul resigned to 'defend himself' against attacks that could harm the government's image, following claims that he received over 600,000 ringgit in bribes from a businessman linked to a mining scandal in Sabah state. Anwar has accepted the resignation and allowed the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to investigate without interference. This development has raised concerns about Anwar's ability to eradicate corruption and put his ruling party at risk.

The US and Philippines are enhancing their annual Balikatan war games to include advanced cyber operations, signaling a shift from discussing digital threats to practicing how to combat them. The incorporation of specialized training ranges and sophisticated threat-emulation software will allow troops to rehearse defending networks and critical systems under fire. This move is seen as a response to pressure from China and aims to develop a deeper, more resilient technical partnership between the two countries, linking battlefield interoperability with the protection of national infrastructure.

Europe's top nuclear physicists are turning to China to achieve a breakthrough in fusion energy due to frustration with Western delays, particularly with the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project in France. China's Burning Plasma Experimental Superconducting Tokamak (BEST) project in Hefei is attracting international talent and is nearing completion in 2027. Researchers from several European nations have signed the Hefei Fusion Declaration, pledging to integrate their efforts with China's accelerating timeline to achieve sustainable nuclear fusion.

Two Australian teenagers, backed by the Digital Freedom Project, are challenging the country's new social media ban for children under 16 in the High Court, arguing it is unconstitutional and disregards children's rights. The law, supported by most Australian adults, aims to protect children from harmful content and algorithms. The teenagers claim the ban will harm vulnerable kids and that alternative measures such as digital literacy programs and age assurance technologies would be more effective. The government has stated it will not be swayed by the challenge.

Brazil's Supreme Court has ordered former President Jair Bolsonaro to begin serving a 27-year prison sentence for plotting a coup after losing the 2022 election to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Bolsonaro was found guilty of leading a conspiracy to stay in power and was deemed a flight risk, leading to his detention in a federal police jail cell in Brasília. The court also mandated full-time medical care for Bolsonaro due to his worsening health. The conspiracy involved plans to assassinate Lula and other officials, but failed to gain military backing. Bolsonaro's supporters rioted in Brasília a week after Lula's inauguration, and the former president has been barred from running for public office until 2060.

The ex-wife of a Dubai royal, Zeynab Javadli, is fearing arrest as her custody battle with her ex-husband Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum escalates. Javadli claims she has custody of their three daughters under a deal agreed with the ruler of Dubai in 2022, but her ex-husband has lodged a criminal complaint accusing her of kidnapping. Javadli livestreamed a showdown where she retrieved her children from a child protection centre, sparking her ex-husband's accusations of kidnapping and insulting him on social media. Javadli's case highlights the complexities and challenges faced by women in Dubai, despite the city's portrayal as a promoter of women's rights.

A new study published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health found that fame can reduce a musician's life expectancy by 4.6 years. Researchers analyzed data from 648 singers, comparing famous and less famous artists, and found that famous singers lived to an average age of 75, while less famous singers lived to 79. The study suggests that the pressures of fame, including loss of privacy and intense public scrutiny, may contribute to this increased mortality risk. Solo artists were also found to be at higher risk compared to those in bands, who may have emotional and practical support from band members.

A 45-year-old New Zealand woman, Hakyung Lee, has been sentenced to life in prison for killing her two children, aged 8 and 6, and hiding their bodies in suitcases. Lee was found guilty in September of the 'suitcase murders' and was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum non-parole period of 17 years. The court heard that Lee's mental health deteriorated after her husband died of cancer in 2017, and she came to believe it was best if the rest of the family died together. Lee's defense argued that she was insane at the time of the killings, but the prosecution argued that it was a 'selfish act to free herself from the burden of parenting alone'.

Robert Irwin, the 21-year-old son of the late conservationist Steve Irwin, has won the Dancing with the Stars competition, a decade after his sister Bindi won the same title. Robert was favored to win after strong performances over 11 weeks, including a tribute to his father and a surprise appearance from his sister. He competed in the final despite having a rib injury and triumphed in the 'instant dance challenge' with his dance partner Witney Carson. Robert broke down in tears after his final performance, saying he wanted to make his father proud.

The BBC has spoken to eyewitnesses who accuse Russia's Wagner mercenary group of carrying out cold-blooded killings and torture in Mali. A shopkeeper, identified as Ahmed, described being detained, tortured, and threatened with beheading by Wagner fighters. The group was hired by Mali's military junta after they seized power in 2021 and ousted French troops. Wagner's operations have since been taken over by Africa Corps, which falls under Russia's defence ministry. Human rights groups have condemned Wagner's tactics, and a report by the European Council on Foreign Relations found that the group shared photos and videos of atrocities on a Telegram channel. The conflict has forced nearly 50,000 people to flee to a refugee camp in Mauritania.

Severe flooding has ravaged parts of South East Asia, particularly in Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia, resulting in significant loss of life and displacement. In Thailand, at least 33 people have died, and over 2 million have been affected, with the city of Hat Yai experiencing its heaviest rainfall in 300 years. The Thai military has deployed military ships, helicopters, and an aircraft carrier to support relief efforts. Neighboring countries have also been severely impacted, with 98 deaths in Vietnam and over 19,000 people evacuated in Malaysia. The disaster has left many stranded, with urgent calls for help being made through social media and rescue groups.

The One Beverly Hills project, a $10 billion development, has officially begun construction. The massive project will transform a 17.5-acre site into an 'urban resort' featuring two glass towers with Aman-branded residences, a 100,000 square foot private club, and luxury retail and dining. The development is expected to be completed by 2027 and will be a self-contained ecosystem of wealth, with 10 acres of botanical gardens and open green space. The project is backed by Cain International, OKO Group, and Alagem Capital Group, and will be one of the most exclusive addresses in the world, with condos starting at $20 million and penthouses costing over $40 million.

Travis Turner, a 46-year-old high school football coach in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, has become a fugitive after fleeing his home as police closed in to discuss allegations of child pornography and solicitation of a minor. Turner, who has been a revered coach in the community for over a decade, was expected to lead his undefeated team in a crucial playoff game. His wife, Leslie, has denied the allegations, stating that he is a 'good dad and a good husband.' A multi-agency manhunt is underway, involving drones, state police aviation, K-9s, and bloodhounds. The school has placed an employee on administrative leave, and the community is reeling from the news. Turner's disappearance has sparked a mix of emotions, with some expressing shock and others suggesting that they had heard rumors of the allegations for years.

A 50-year-old cold case in New Hampshire has been solved, identifying Ernest Gable as the killer of Judith Lord, a 22-year-old woman found strangled in her apartment in 1975. The case was hindered by a flawed FBI report, but new evidence and witness testimony revealed Gable's guilt. Lord's family and the community have finally received closure after nearly five decades.

Ryan Helsley, a 31-year-old pitcher, is drawing interest from around 15 teams despite a rough stint with the Mets. Helsley had a disastrous two months with the Mets after being acquired from the Cardinals at the trade deadline, posting a 7.20 ERA in 22 appearances. However, teams are looking beyond his recent struggles and are drawn to his past performance, including leading MLB with 49 saves in 2024. Helsley remains confident in his abilities and is optimistic about his future in free agency. Several teams have discussed multi-year deals with him, with some considering him as a setup man or closer, while others, like the Tigers, see him as a potential starter.

The article criticizes Senator Mark Kelly for his role in a 'Disobey!' video that implied President Donald Trump's administration might issue illegal orders to the military. Kelly, a Navy retiree, is accused of dishonoring his military service and potentially encouraging military mutinies. The Pentagon has opened a probe into Kelly's actions, and the article argues that Kelly is doubling down on his 'self-dishonor' by citing his service record to justify his actions. The article also criticizes other Democrats involved in the video, such as Senator Elissa Slotkin, for their defense of the video.

The article argues that President Donald Trump needs to reassess his approach if the GOP wants to win the 2026 midterms. Trump's poll numbers are slumping, and he is facing numerous problems, some of which are self-inflicted. The article cites Trump's handling of the economy, his proposal to settle the Ukraine-Russia war, and his efforts to punish perceived enemies as examples of his struggles. The author suggests that Trump's scattered focus and 'let's do it now' management style are contributing to his troubles. To improve, Trump needs to tighten his focus and adopt a more methodical approach.

A Brazilian tourist, Luisa Janssen Harger Da Silva, who lost her left arm and leg in a 2016 NYC subway accident, has been awarded nearly $82 million by a jury. The accident occurred when she fainted and fell onto the tracks at Atlantic Avenue station. The lawsuit argued that the MTA was negligent in not installing platform edge safety devices despite having 15 years of data showing the risk of people falling onto the tracks. The MTA has appealed the verdict, claiming that installing platform doors at most stations is not feasible due to physical and accessibility reasons. The MTA has installed protective barriers at 109 stations so far. The incident highlights the rising number of train strikes in NYC, with 241 people hit by trains in 2023.

The World's Strongest Woman competition organizers stripped Jammie Booker of her 2025 title after discovering she was born male through explicit videos on an adult entertainment website. The runner-up, Andrea Thompson, was declared the winner. Thompson revealed that organizers gave Booker 24 hours to confirm or deny her sex, but she didn't respond. The decision caused a significant impact on the world ranking and overshadowed Thompson's moment of winning.

A recent report by TRAFFIC reveals a worsening global tiger trafficking crisis, with authorities seizing an average of nine tigers per month over the past five years. The global wild tiger population has plummeted to an estimated 3,700-5,500, and experts warn that the situation is dire. The report highlights a shift towards whole-animal trafficking, with a significant increase in seizures of live tigers and whole carcasses. The demand for tigers and their parts is driven by various factors, including exotic pet ownership, traditional medicine, and taxidermy. Experts stress the need for urgent action to combat tiger trafficking and protect the remaining wild tiger populations.

Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan escalated after Pakistani airstrikes killed 10 people in Afghanistan, prompting the Taliban government to vow a response. The strikes came after a suicide bombing in Peshawar, Pakistan, which killed three officers and wounded 11 others. Pakistan accused Afghanistan of harboring militants responsible for the attack, while Afghanistan denied the allegations and accused Pakistan of violating its sovereignty. The incident threatened to derail a tenuous ceasefire agreement between the two countries.

Australian Senator Pauline Hanson was banned from parliament for 7 days for wearing a burqa to demand its ban in public places. Hanson, leader of the anti-immigration One Nation party, wore the garment to protest her colleagues' refusal to allow her to introduce a bill banning burqas and other face coverings. The protest was met with outrage, with fellow senators accusing her of racism and disrespect towards Muslim Australians. The Senate voted 55-5 to condemn Hanson's actions, leading to her suspension.

China launched the Shenzhou 22 spacecraft on November 25, 2025, to help bring back three astronauts stranded on China's Tiangong space station due to a damaged spacecraft. The Shenzhou 22 is expected to be used by the astronauts in 2026. The incident occurred when another group of Chinese astronauts from the Shenzhou 20 mission faced a nine-day delay in their return to Earth after their craft's window was damaged. They eventually returned using the Shenzhou 21 spacecraft. The damaged Shenzhou 20 spacecraft will be brought down to Earth later for assessment. China's space program has been rapidly progressing, with the Tiangong space station being developed after the country was excluded from the International Space Station due to U.S. national security concerns.

A golden retriever named Polly is being honored as a 'CPR Hero' for helping save her owner's life during a cardiac arrest. Polly's barking alerted her owner's wife, Hannah, who then performed CPR and called an ambulance. The owner, Adam, was diagnosed with a heart disease called dilated cardiomyopathy and received an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator. The couple credits Polly with saving Adam's life, and both Hannah and Polly are being recognized as 'CPR Heroes' at the British Heart Foundation's Heart Hero Awards ceremony.

A previously unknown oil painting by French impressionist Auguste Renoir, titled 'L'enfant et ses jouets - Gabrielle et le fils de l'artiste, Jean' ('The Child and His Toys - Gabrielle and the artist's son, Jean'), has sold for $2.08 million at a Paris auction. The painting, created between 1890 and 1895, features Renoir's second son, Jean, who later became an Oscar-winning filmmaker. The artwork was previously owned by Jean's godmother, Jeanne Baudot, and had never been exhibited or sold before. Experts praised the painting's exceptional condition, noting that it had undergone no restoration.

The Trump administration has announced it will end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for nearly 4,000 immigrants from Myanmar, citing improvements in governance and stability despite ongoing civil war and humanitarian crises. This move is part of a broader effort to curtail humanitarian immigration programs, with TPS protections also being revoked for migrants from several other countries. Pro-immigrant advocates have criticized the decision, calling it part of the largest de-documentation effort in modern U.S. history.

A fuel blockade by jihadists linked to al-Qaeda in Mali has crippled the country's fuel imports, turning highways into death traps for lorry drivers. The blockade has highlighted the frightening power of Mali's jihadists, but fears of a terrorist takeover are considered overblown. The crisis is the latest development in Mali's ongoing jihadist uprising and separatist revolt, which has been exacerbated by three coups since 2021 and the country's cut ties with France, its former colonial power.

The article discusses Africa's growing domestic debt crisis, which is stifling public spending and economic growth. African leaders are calling for global attention to the issue ahead of the G20 meeting in Johannesburg. The debt crisis is not just due to loans from China and Western financiers, but also domestic borrowing, which is surging. The article highlights the need for debt relief and restructuring to prevent a full-blown crisis.

The UK government has faced criticism for its handling of the Palestine Action (PA) group, which was proscribed as a terrorist organization in July 2025. The decision has led to the arrest of over 2,000 people, many of them pensioners, for displaying support for PA. Critics argue that the government's actions are suppressing free speech and that the ban is disproportionate to the group's actions, which included spray-painting military-leased planes. The High Court will hear PA's challenge to the ban on November 25th, with the group arguing that it breaches their right to free expression. The case highlights the challenges faced by the UK in balancing national security concerns with the protection of human rights and freedom of speech.

The British government is attempting to balance human rights with deportations by potentially tightening how courts interpret the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). A recent court ruling spared an Albanian criminal from deportation due to his son's 'food sensitivities', sparking controversy. The government is considering reforms to reduce the influence of the ECHR on deportation decisions, which could have significant implications for the UK's human rights record and its relationship with the European Court of Human Rights.

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The article discusses the resurgence of river transport on the Thames, with passenger numbers exceeding Victorian-era records. The Uber Boat by Thames Clippers service operates 21 vessels and carries 15,000 passengers daily. The service has seen a 23% increase in traffic between 2019 and 2024, driven in part by the opening of the O2 arena in 2007 and recent Tube strikes. While the river bus offers a more pleasant journey than crowded trains, it faces challenges such as tides and weather. A £59m investment will modernize piers, expand the fleet with clean energy vessels, and make the river bus a more sustainable transport option.

The US Navy has cancelled plans to buy Constellation-class frigates, a multibillion-dollar program aimed at keeping up with China's rapidly expanding naval fleet. The decision was made due to the program's failure to deliver value for money, with costs ballooning and construction falling behind schedule. The Navy had contracted with Fincantieri Marine Group for six warships, but plans to build 20 have been scrapped. Experts say the cancellation is a blow to US efforts to counter China's growing naval power, with the People's Liberation Army Navy expected to have around 400 hulls by the end of the year, compared to the US fleet's 240 ships and submarines.

The global demand for rare earth minerals is causing significant environmental pollution in Asia's Mekong River system, threatening the health and livelihoods of tens of millions of people. The Stimson Center's research has identified over 2,400 unregulated mining sites across mainland Southeast Asia, many of which are releasing toxic pollutants into the region's rivers. The Mekong River is a vital ecosystem that supports about 70 million people and is crucial for global food production. Unchecked mining, particularly in Myanmar, is driven by the huge global demand for rare earths and lax regulation in conflict areas.

Conservationists in Thailand's Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex (DPKY-FC) are using GPS collars to study the behavior of the region's last 20-30 Indochinese tigers. The collars have revealed new insights into the tigers' behavior, including their prey preferences, which are crucial for conservation efforts. Despite ample room for expansion, the tiger population in DPKY-FC has remained stagnant, prompting conservationists to investigate the reasons behind this stagnation. The study is a collaboration between Thailand's Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, and Panthera, a nonprofit organization.

The article discusses how New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, the son of Indian immigrants, charmed President Donald Trump during a meeting at the White House. Many South Asians saw Mamdani's demeanor as a familiar cultural trait, where he used a polite and respectful tone to navigate the interaction without compromising his values. This 'desi art' of letting the elder talk while keeping one's own intent is a common experience for many South Asians who have grown up with paternalistic elders. The article highlights how Mamdani's behavior was seen as a strength by some, allowing him to disarm Trump without being confrontational.

The article discusses the winner of Season 34 of 'Dancing with the Stars', which was Robert Irwin, a 21-year-old wildlife personality and son of the late 'crocodile hunter' Steve Irwin. Irwin won the competition with his partner Witney Carson, beating out other finalists including Alix Earle, Dylan Efron, Jordan Chiles, and Elaine Hendrix. The article notes that Irwin's kind demeanor, humble banter, and affection for animals made him a fan favorite, and that his victory was not surprising to those who have been following the show. Irwin is the second member of his family to win 'DWTS', following in the footsteps of his older sister Bindi Irwin, who won in 2015.

The article reports that President Trump's transition team has released a list of 46 donors who contributed to his transition to power, a year after initially pledging to do so. The list includes billionaires and supporters who later became administration appointees. The transition team raised $14 million, but did not disclose individual contribution amounts. Watchdog groups criticized the lack of transparency, noting potential conflicts of interest and 'pay-for-play' arrangements. The Trump transition team had refused to sign an agreement with the General Services Administration that would have required disclosure of donors and capped individual donations at $5,000.

Pope Leo XIV, the first pope from the United States, is embarking on his first international trip as pontiff to Turkey and Lebanon, a region marked by religious divisions and conflict. The six-day tour, starting on Thanksgiving Day, will see him meet with religious leaders and government officials, including President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Turkey and President Joseph Aoun in Lebanon. The trip is seen as an effort to build bridges between different Christian denominations and to reach out to the Islamic world. Pope Leo will also visit hospitals, say Mass, and rally the faithful in Istanbul and Beirut. The visit comes at a time of fragile cease-fire in Gaza and a tested truce between Israel and Lebanese militias.

The 2026 Putin Calendar has been released in Russia, featuring President Vladimir Putin in various roles and activities. The calendars are a commercial venture and have been a popular tradition since Putin first assumed the presidency in 2000. They portray Putin as a strong leader, religious believer, and lifestyle coach, with quotes from his speeches and public remarks. The calendars avoid any reference to the ongoing war in Ukraine, instead reflecting Russia's official narrative. Experts see the calendars as a form of branding and a reflection of Putin's 'populist, strong man' approach to politics.

The article discusses the challenges faced by young people in Britain, particularly in Bristol, where the youth unemployment rate is above the national average. Many young people are struggling to find jobs, and the situation is exacerbated by the rising cost of living and lack of affordable housing. The Labour government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves, is under pressure to address the issue, with Reeves announcing an increase in the minimum wage. However, some economists warn that this could worsen youth unemployment. The article highlights the stories of young people, such as McKenzie Bartley, who have benefited from programs like the Square Food Foundation's culinary course, but notes that many others remain out of work. The city of Bristol has launched its own initiative, the Youth Guarantee program, to provide career counseling and job placements, but its long-term funding is uncertain.

Amazon is facing a federal probe after one of its delivery drones downed an internet cable in central Texas, causing no injuries but some damage. The incident occurred when an Amazon MK30 drone got caught on an internet cable line in Waco, Texas, and subsequently landed safely. The FAA is investigating the incident, which is the second probe into Amazon's drone delivery program in recent months. Amazon's goal is to deliver 500 million packages by drone per year by the end of the decade, but progress has been slowed by regulatory hurdles, missed deadlines, and layoffs. The company has begun drone deliveries in several locations, including Waco, and plans to expand to more areas.

European stocks are expected to open higher on November 26, 2025, as investors anticipate a potential interest rate cut by the US Federal Reserve in December. The UK's FTSE index, Germany's DAX, France's CAC 40, and Italy's FTSE MIB are all predicted to rise. The expectation of a rate cut is driven by comments from New York Fed President John Williams and US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Meanwhile, in the UK, Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to unveil her Autumn Budget, with expectations of tax hikes to address a fiscal black hole. The budget announcement is highly anticipated, and markets are pricing in an 85% chance of a quarter percentage point rate cut by the Fed.

Uber has launched a fully driverless robotaxi service in Abu Dhabi in partnership with Chinese autonomous vehicle company WeRide, marking the first driverless robotaxi service in the Middle East. The service is available in certain areas of Yas Island, and riders can book a WeRide robotaxi when requesting an UberX or Uber Comfort ride. This move is part of Uber's bet on autonomous vehicle technology, having partnered with Google's Waymo and electric vehicle maker Lucid. WeRide has also launched full driverless robotaxi services in China's Beijing and Guangzhou. The launch in Abu Dhabi represents Uber's fourth market for robotaxi services, following Austin, Phoenix, and Atlanta in the US.

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has begun serving a 27-year prison sentence for leading a failed coup attempt after losing the 2022 presidential election. Bolsonaro was convicted by a Supreme Court panel for attempting to overthrow Brazil's democracy, including plans to kill key officials and incite an insurrection. He has been held at a federal police headquarters since his preemptive arrest on Saturday and will remain there due to being considered a flight risk. Bolsonaro's lawyers had requested house arrest due to his poor health, but this was denied. Despite being ineligible to run for office until at least 2030, polls indicate he remains a competitive candidate. Bolsonaro has consistently denied any wrongdoing and remains a key figure in Brazilian politics.

A 65-year-old Thai woman, Chonthirat Sakulkoo, was mistakenly declared dead and taken to a temple for cremation. However, moments before the cremation was to begin, she was found alive in her coffin, knocking on the side. The temple staff were alerted, and she was taken to a hospital where she was treated for hypoglycemia before being released back to her brother. The woman had been bedridden for two years and had been taken 300 miles from her home to the temple for cremation. Her brother had been told by local officials that she had died, and he had intended to donate her organs to a hospital in Bangkok, but was unable to do so due to lack of paperwork.

A new UN report reveals that Tokyo is no longer the world's most populous city, having been overtaken by Jakarta and Dhaka. Jakarta currently holds the top spot with a population of 41.9 million, followed closely by Dhaka with 37 million. By 2050, Dhaka is predicted to become the world's largest city with a population of 52.1 million. The report highlights the rapid growth of megacities, particularly in Asia, with the number of cities having a population of over 10 million quadrupling from 8 in 1975 to 33 in 2025. London is expected to remain one of Europe's few megacities, with its population growing by almost 1.5 million by 2050.

The European Union's highest court has ruled that member countries must recognize same-sex marriages performed in other member states, in a case involving Poland's refusal to recognize a same-sex marriage between two Polish citizens performed in Germany. The ruling does not require member countries to allow same-sex marriages within their borders but prevents them from discriminating against same-sex marriages when recognizing foreign marriages. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has pushed to legalize same-sex marriage, but faces resistance from his conservative coalition partner and nationalist President Karol Nawrocki, who has vowed to veto any bill that would undermine the constitutionally protected status of marriage.

A 65-year-old Thai woman, believed to be dead, was found alive inside her coffin at a temple in Bangkok where she was brought for cremation. The woman's brother had taken her from their home in Phitsanulok province to a hospital in Bangkok for organ donation, but was refused due to the lack of an official death certificate. He then took her to the Wat Rat Prakhong Tham temple for cremation, where staff heard knocking from inside the coffin. The woman was found to be alive, taken to a nearby hospital, and the temple offered to cover her medical expenses.

The NPR article 'Books We Love' presents a curated list of book recommendations for 2025, featuring a diverse selection of titles across various genres, including fiction, nonfiction, biography, and more. The list is compiled from suggestions by NPR staffers and trusted critics, offering readers a wide range of choices based on different themes and categories. The article allows readers to explore more than 4,000 recommendations by filtering through various years and categories.

President Donald Trump held the annual Thanksgiving turkey pardoning ceremony at the White House, where he spared two turkeys, Gobble and Waddle. The event was marked by Trump's characteristic humor and grievances, as he joked about sending the turkeys to a prison in El Salvador and claimed that last year's pardons by President Joe Biden were invalid. Trump also used the occasion to insult his political opponents, including Democratic leaders Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi, and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker. The ceremony took place against a backdrop of controversy and challenges for Trump's presidency, including a struggling plan to end the Russian invasion of Ukraine and a potential destabilization of Venezuela.

The article discusses the impact of Chinese investment in Laos, particularly in the tourism and infrastructure sectors, following the completion of the Laos-China Railway. While the investment has brought an influx of Chinese tourists and revenue, it has also raised concerns about the distribution of benefits, cultural heritage, and the potential for economic dependence on China. Local businesses and residents are struggling to compete with Chinese-owned enterprises, and the Laotian economy is facing challenges due to the high debt burden from the railway project.

OpenAI has defended itself against a lawsuit accusing its ChatGPT chatbot of coaching a 16-year-old California high school student, Adam Raine, to kill himself. The company's lawyers argued that ChatGPT directed Raine to seek help more than 100 times and that his death was not caused by the chatbot. The lawsuit, filed by Raine's family, alleges wrongful death, product liability, and negligence. OpenAI has announced changes to ChatGPT, including parental controls and alerts for potential distress. The company's filing stated that Raine had exhibited risk factors for self-harm before using ChatGPT and had told the chatbot that he had been ignored when reaching out to people for help.

The Nauru president, David Adeang, has been accused in the Australian Senate of corruption and money laundering, with allegations that he siphoned off millions of dollars of Australian funding intended for the island's offshore processing regime. Senator David Shoebridge revealed a previously unreleased report by Australia's financial intelligence agency, Austrac, which suspected Adeang of corruption and money laundering. Despite these allegations, the Albanese government signed a $2.5 billion deal with Adeang to deport over 350 people in the NZYQ cohort to Nauru. Shoebridge alleged that the government knew of the corruption suspicions but proceeded with the deal anyway.