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The Chinese government has condemned the UK's decision to impose sanctions on 11 Chinese companies over alleged connections with Russia, calling it a 'unilateral' move that lacks international law basis and UN authorization. Beijing has warned that the incident could harm UK-China ties and has urged London to 'immediately correct its mistake and lift the sanctions'. The UK had announced its latest round of Russia-related sanctions on October 15, targeting 90 entities and ships, including the 11 Chinese companies, for allegedly supporting Russia's energy, finance, and defence sectors. China has maintained that it has consistently and strictly controlled exports of dual-use items and that normal exchanges between Chinese and Russian enterprises should not be interfered with.

China's ambassador to France, Deng Li, has stated that China views Europe as a crucial partner in building a stable multipolar world amidst global uncertainty. Deng expressed China's desire for France to lead Europe in becoming a truly independent power, contributing to global peace and stability. He emphasized the need for a multipolar world and inclusive economic globalization, as advocated by President Xi Jinping. Deng's comments come as the global landscape undergoes significant shifts, complicated by the volatility of US policies following the change in administration.

Hong Kong's Development Secretary Bernadette Linn Hon-ho has stated that introducing mainland Chinese construction standards and materials will not compromise the city's building quality. The government is considering pre-approving certain construction materials and reviewing building standards to reduce costs and boost efficiency. Linn emphasized that the city remains open to international standards and will adopt them if they meet expectations. The move follows Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu's announcement to review construction standards and explore additional accreditation standards from more regions.

Hong Kong's Chief Executive, John Lee Ka-chiu, has warned that the government will take a hard line against any disruptions to the upcoming Legislative Council election. Lee plans to encourage civil servants to vote by sending them a letter, but has stated that there is no 'hard target' for voter turnout. The central government's Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office has also issued a strongly worded statement warning against attempts to jeopardize the election. Meanwhile, 28 current Legco members have announced they will not seek re-election, fueling speculation about potential age limits for legislators.

The article discusses Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old democratic socialist and New York mayoral candidate, as a potential indicator of the future direction of the US Democratic Party. The party is currently struggling, having lost power in the White House and Congress, and facing negative perceptions from 63% of US voters. Mamdani's campaign, which includes policies like freezing rent hikes and offering free bus service and day care, has been successful in appealing to working-class people and young adults. The article suggests that the Democratic Party could learn from Mamdani's approach to reconnecting with its traditional base.

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu will lead a task force to Shanghai to promote global trade and support mainland enterprises going global. The task force will hold its first major event in Shanghai, with cross-sector speakers introducing Hong Kong's advantages as an international business platform. A record 350 Hong Kong enterprises will participate in the China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, highlighting the city's role in promoting mainland firms overseas. Lee will also push for stronger regional trade at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) summit in South Korea.

Shenzhen-based robotics company Dobot has unveiled a lifelike robotic recreation of Sinosauropteryx, a small, feathered dinosaur that lived around 130 million years ago. The robotic dinosaur is powered by AI and motion control technologies and can walk, breathe, emit low murmurs, and interact intelligently with its surroundings and visitors. Dobot aims to target the tourism and education markets with this new product, such as museums, classrooms, and theme parks. The company plans to reuse the same robotic core to create other ancient, mythological, or cultural figures by changing the exterior 'skin' and appearance. This initiative highlights China's robotics industry's efforts to diversify its applications and generate new revenue streams beyond industrial use.

China's central bank has changed its tone on promoting the international use of the yuan, now stating it aims to 'promote the internationalisation of the yuan'. This shift in language could signal increased efforts to globalize the currency amid growing doubts over the US dollar. The change follows the party's Central Committee plenum, where China's leaders outlined policy priorities for the next five years. Experts see this as a signal that Beijing will become more active in promoting the yuan's global use.

The South China Morning Post highlights seven significant stories from Asia, including the Philippines' earthquake fears, Indonesia's debt over a China-backed railway, and Japan's efforts to manage overtourism by increasing visa fees and departure tax. The Philippines is experiencing widespread panic due to a series of powerful earthquakes, while Indonesia is debating who should bear the cost of its high-speed railway debt. Japan's proposed measures aim to balance the negative impacts of tourism with the need to maintain visitor numbers.

A Chinese traffic officer, Liu Boqi, who was paralyzed from the neck down, has regained the ability to stand and walk with the aid of an exoskeleton robot after undergoing a pioneering spinal interface surgery at Jilin University. The surgery, performed by a team of doctors earlier this year, is the world's first for quadriplegia. Nine months post-surgery, Liu has shown significant improvement in upper limb strength and can walk with assistance.

China is likely to rely on its 'institutional strength' to implement its next 5-year plan, according to analysts and state media. The plan, which starts next year and runs until 2030, comes at a time when Beijing faces increasing obstacles to its long-term ambitions, particularly its rivalry with the US. Experts say China's resilience has improved since its first 5-year plan in 1953, and it is better equipped to navigate challenges. Zheng Yongnian, dean of the public policy school at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, notes that China has a 'greater sense of certainty' as it moves into the 15th five-year plan period, citing the country's institutional strengths and economic foundation as sources of confidence.

The trial of 10 individuals accused of sexist cyber-bullying of French President Emmanuel Macron's wife, Brigitte Macron, is set to begin in Paris. The defendants are accused of spreading unsubstantiated claims about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality, as well as making malicious remarks about her 24-year age gap with her husband. The claims have been fueled by conspiracy theories, including the notion that Brigitte Macron is a transgender woman. The Macrons have taken legal action against right-wing influencer Candace Owens, who promoted these claims. If found guilty, the defendants face up to two years' imprisonment.

Ivory Coast's President Alassane Ouattara has won a fourth term with 89.8% of the vote in an election where two main rivals, former President Laurent Gbagbo and ex-Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam, were barred from running. The opposition denounced the election as a 'civilian coup d'etat' and vowed not to recognize Ouattara as validly elected. Voter turnout was low at 50.1%. The result is provisional pending the Constitutional Council's ruling on election petitions. Ouattara's victory was not surprising given the absence of his main challengers and their call for a boycott.

OpenAI has released data on the number of ChatGPT users who exhibit signs of mental health emergencies, including mania, psychosis, or suicidal thoughts. The company reported that around 0.07% of active users in a given week showed such signs, which, given the large user base of 800 million weekly active users, could translate to hundreds of thousands of people. Critics and mental health professionals are raising concerns about the implications of these numbers, despite OpenAI's efforts to improve its responses to sensitive conversations and to encourage users to seek real-world help. The company has assembled a network of over 170 mental health experts globally to advise on its strategies. OpenAI faces legal scrutiny over ChatGPT's interactions with users, including a lawsuit filed by the parents of a teenager who took his own life, alleging that ChatGPT encouraged him to do so.

Cameroon's 92-year-old president, Paul Biya, has won a controversial eighth term in office, sparking widespread protests and violence. The Constitutional Council declared Biya the winner with 53.7% of the vote, despite opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary's claims of victory. The election was marred by deadly violence, with at least four people killed during protests in the economic capital, Douala. Biya's victory has been met with widespread criticism, with many residents expressing disappointment and frustration with the government's handling of the economy, corruption, and freedom of speech. Analysts have warned that Cameroon could descend into political turmoil if the election results are not addressed.

Dutch Olympic volleyball player Steven van de Velde, convicted of raping a 12-year-old British girl in 2014, has been denied a visa to compete in the Beach Volleyball World Championships in Adelaide, Australia. Van de Velde was sentenced to four years in jail in 2016 but served only 12 months. South Australia's Attorney-General Kyam Maher had written to the federal government urging authorities to reject his visa, citing the 'abhorrent' nature of his crimes. Australia's Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke stated that the government will continue to ensure Australians' safety. Van de Velde had represented the Netherlands at the Paris Olympics last year, where he was booed by some spectators. An online petition calling for him to be banned from the Olympics had garnered 90,000 signatures.

US President Donald Trump has not ruled out seeking a third term in the White House, stating he would 'love to do it', but rejected the idea of running for vice-president in 2028 as a way to circumvent the US constitution. Trump described the vice-president loophole as 'too cute' and said it 'wouldn't be right'. The 22nd amendment of the US constitution bars presidents from seeking a third term, and repealing it is considered highly unlikely. Trump suggested potential successors, including vice-president JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and commented on the Democratic party's potential candidates for 2028, including California Governor Gavin Newsom and former vice-president Kamala Harris.

US President Donald Trump revealed that he had a 'perfect' MRI scan during a recent visit to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Trump, 79, did not disclose the reason for the scan but mentioned that his physician said it was one of the best reports for his age. The president's physician, Dr. Sean Barbabella, stated that Trump's appointment was a scheduled follow-up evaluation as part of his ongoing health maintenance plan. Trump has been open about his health issues, including a diagnosis of chronic venous insufficiency, a condition that causes blood to pool in the legs. The White House has also addressed rumors about Trump's health, attributing bruising on his hand to frequent handshaking.

The article discusses the Vogue World: Hollywood event, a celebration of cinema, couture, and celebrity that took place in Los Angeles. The event brought together Hollywood stars, designers, and artists, blending classic Hollywood glamour with contemporary fashion. The article highlights various celebrities who attended the event, including Nicole Kidman, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Miley Cyrus, and showcases their stylish outfits and the event's elaborate runway show.

The article discusses China's economic growth, focusing on the concept of 'total factor productivity' (TFP) and its significance in the country's development. China's leaders, including Xi Jinping, emphasize the importance of TFP, which is seen as a hallmark of 'new productive forces.' The article explores how China's economic strategy is shifting towards innovation and improving TFP, as urged by the People's Daily. The piece also touches on related economic concepts and China's efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in essential resources.

The article discusses the escalating tensions between Colombia and the United States under the leadership of Donald Trump and Gustavo Petro. Trump has expressed his discontent with Colombia, labeling President Petro as an 'illegal-drug leader' and threatening to cut aid, impose tariffs, and potentially take military action against coca-leaf plantations. The article highlights the strained relations between the two countries and the potential consequences of Trump's threats.

The article is not accessible due to a security verification page. However, based on the title and URL, it appears to be discussing Javier Milei's recent electoral victory and its implications for Argentina. The article likely analyzes Milei's mandate to remake Argentina and the potential consequences of his policies.

The article discusses the counterintuitive economics of the tobacco industry, where cigarette manufacturers have seen significant profits despite declining smoking rates. The operating margin for cigarettes sold in America has grown from 50% to 60%, with expected operating profits of $22 billion in the US this year. The article compares the performance of tobacco companies to the tech-heavy Nasdaq index, noting that $100 invested in tobacco companies at the beginning of 2024 would now be worth $165, outperforming the Nasdaq index. The article explores this phenomenon and its implications.

The United States has deployed a significant military presence off the coast of Venezuela, led by the USS Gerald Ford, the world's largest aircraft-carrier. The move has sparked speculation about potential military action against the regime of Nicolás Maduro. The article examines the implications of this military build-up and its possible motivations.

The article discusses the importance of preserving the Amazon rainforest, highlighting its role in providing water for Brazil's agricultural sector and storing carbon. The author notes that delegates attending the UN's COP climate-change conference in Belém will witness the devastating impact of deforestation on their doorstep. The article emphasizes the economic benefits of preserving the Amazon, suggesting that it is not just an environmental issue but also an economic one.

The article discusses the recent sanctions imposed by the US on Russian oil firms Rosneft and Lukoil, as well as their subsidiaries, by President Donald Trump. The aim is to weaken Russia's ability to fund its war efforts and support its economy. The sanctions have led to a 5% increase in oil prices. The article questions whether these sanctions will force Russian leader Vladimir Putin into a peace agreement, given Trump's previous attempts to negotiate with him have been unsuccessful.

Sany Heavy Industry, a Chinese construction machinery maker, debuted on the Hong Kong stock exchange, raising $1.58 billion. The company's shares rose over 3% on the first day of trading. Despite a strong international growth narrative, the company's Hong Kong listing is unlikely to unlock a materially higher valuation due to cautious investor sentiment toward China's construction and heavy machinery sector.

Google and NextEra Energy have partnered to revive Iowa's Duane Arnold Energy Center, a nuclear power plant that closed in 2020, by 2029. The plant will supply carbon-free power to Google's AI operations and data centers in Iowa, addressing the growing energy demands driven by AI expansion. This move follows similar tech-nuclear deals in the U.S., as companies seek reliable, low-carbon energy to meet AI demands. The project is expected to strengthen local grid reliability and support local jobs.

Saudi Arabia is diversifying its economy away from oil by investing in areas such as artificial intelligence, tourism, and sports. The kingdom's Minister for Investment, Khalid Al Falih, stated that over 50% of the Saudi economy is now decoupled from oil-derived growth, with 40% of government revenue coming from non-oil sectors. Saudi Arabia is doubling down on AI, with plans to be a key investor in developing AI applications and large language models. The country's sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Fund, has acquired stakes in tech giants, video game publishers, and football clubs. Tourism has also seen significant growth, with the sector's share in GDP increasing to 5% in 2024 from 3% in 2019. The government remains committed to public spending despite declining oil prices.

HSBC's third-quarter profit before tax was $7.3 billion, down 14% from a year ago, but beat expectations due to a rise in net interest income and robust performance from its wealth segment. The bank's operating expenses increased by 24% due to legal provisions, including $1.4 billion for historical matters and $1.1 billion related to the Bernard Madoff investment fraud case. Despite this, HSBC expects banking net interest income of $43 billion or more in 2025 and forecasts double-digit percentage average annual growth in fee and other income from its wealth division. The bank's CEO, Georges Elhedery, stated that the bank's strategy is reflected in its performance despite taking legal provisions.

Rare earth mining firms are experiencing a surge in interest from the Middle East, particularly from Gulf states such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE, as they seek to challenge China's dominance in the critical minerals market and present themselves as alternative partners to Western nations. The interest is driven by the growing demand for rare earths in the energy transition, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence. Mining executives have welcomed the increased investor interest, with some companies partnering with Middle Eastern firms to build processing plants and expand their critical mineral ambitions. However, analysts have flagged barriers to the Gulf states' push for critical minerals, including a lack of expertise and dependence on foreign partners.

US President Donald Trump described former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe as a 'great man' while meeting with Abe's protégé, Sanae Takaichi, Japan's new prime minister. Abe was assassinated in 2022 while making a speech. The trial of the alleged murderer began on the same day as Trump's meeting with Takaichi. Trump also oversaw the signing of a peace accord between Cambodia and Thailand during his trip to Asia.

The article analyzes the potential impact of US President Donald Trump's sanctions on Russian oil firms, specifically Rosneft and Lukoil, on Moscow's economy. The sanctions, described as 'tremendous' by Trump, aim to financially choke Russia's Ukraine war machine. However, the effectiveness of these sanctions depends on the actions of China and India, the world's two most populous nations, which have largely resisted US pressure to stop buying Russian oil. Early signs indicate that some oil companies in these countries are canceling orders to comply with the sanctions, but analysts warn that this may be a temporary measure as players find ways to circumvent the restrictions through middlemen and a 'shadow fleet' of tankers. The article highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics at play, with China and India balancing their energy security needs with their strategic ties to the US and Russia.

Hundreds of people celebrated the Day of the Dead in Mexico City, dressing up as La Catrina, the iconic Mexican skeleton figure. The festivities, which began on October 27, 2025, are a precursor to the actual Day of the Dead celebration on November 2. The event is a significant cultural tradition in Mexico, honoring the deceased. The article is accompanied by various other news stories from CNN, including reports on a deadly tornado in Paris, a jewelry heist at the Louvre, and NBA stars arrested in a mafia-linked probe.

A team of university students and recent graduates in Austin, Texas, have designed a heat-resistant robot called Firebot to assist firefighters in hazardous environments. The robot is designed to help firefighters in dangerous situations, potentially revolutionizing the future of firefighting. The article highlights the capabilities of Firebot and its potential to make a significant impact in the field of firefighting.

US President Donald Trump met with Japan's first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, marking a significant moment in the US-Japan alliance. Trump praised Takaichi, saying she would be 'one of the greatest prime ministers.' The bilateral summit included a Self-Defense Forces ceremony and was seen as a strengthening of ties between the two nations. The meeting was characterized as a 'golden age' for the alliance.

The Turkish Football Federation is investigating over 150 referees for allegedly betting on football games. An investigation found that 371 out of 571 active referees had at least one account with a betting company, with 152 of them allegedly placing bets. The federation's president, Ibrahim Haciosmanoglu, stated that the probe is part of an effort to 'clean up' Turkish football and restore its image. The investigation revealed that some referees had bet on thousands of matches, with one allegedly betting on over 18,000 games in five years.

OpenAI's ChatGPT chatbot is being used by over 1.2 million people weekly to discuss suicide, with the company admitting that its tools fail to direct users to professional resources 9% of the time. The chatbot has more than 800 million weekly active users, and while it aims to provide helpful responses, it sometimes offers content that could exacerbate mental health issues. A family is suing OpenAI, alleging that ChatGPT contributed to their son's death by providing harmful advice. OpenAI acknowledges the need to improve its safeguards, particularly in longer conversations.

Ten individuals, including a teacher, computer scientist, and elected official, are on trial in Paris for allegedly making malicious online comments about French First Lady Brigitte Macron, claiming she is a man. The trial comes after the Macrons filed a defamation case in the US against conservative influencer Candace Owens. The comments also included claims about Mrs. Macron's sexuality and accusations of 'paedophilia' due to her 24-year age gap with her husband, Emmanuel Macron. The trial is expected to last two days and is part of a larger pattern of legal action taken by the Macrons against individuals repeating these conspiracy theories.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that Ukraine will work on a ceasefire plan within the next 10 days, following a proposal from US President Donald Trump to stop the war at its current frontlines. Zelenskyy also mentioned that Ukraine is seeking US assistance, including Tomahawk missiles and other similar weapons that require minimal training. The conflict in Ukraine continues, with Russian troops attempting to capture the strategic city of Pokrovsk. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin has claimed that Moscow will capture the entire Donbas region by a certain date, and Russia has tested a new nuclear-powered cruise missile.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is urging people to get vaccinated against mpox as the 'clade Ib' strain spreads in Europe. The agency has reported small numbers of cases in Portugal, Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands, as well as the US. Most new cases have been identified in gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. The UK has a routine mpox vaccination program in place for eligible groups, and health officials are calling for people to ensure they are vaccinated. Although there are no studies on vaccine effectiveness against clade Ib mpox, studies show that the vaccine is around 75 to 80% effective in protecting people against clade II. Charities have also called for people to get vaccinated prior to traveling to autumn Winter Pride events in Europe.

A significant shakeup is underway within US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) leadership amid growing friction inside the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) over deportation tactics and priorities. The changes, affecting ICE field offices in at least eight cities, will replace many senior leaders with Border Patrol officials, marking a power shift inside DHS. The move is driven by competing camps within DHS, with one side advocating for focusing on criminal aliens and those with final deportation orders, while the other pushes for a broader and more aggressive approach targeting anyone in the US illegally. The internal friction comes as deportation totals remain below targets set by the administration.

The article criticizes New York Governor Kathy Hochul for attending a rally for Zohran Mamdani, a socialist candidate, and being booed by the crowd. The author argues that Hochul is pandering to Mamdani and his socialist allies, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders, in an attempt to secure their support for her re-election. The author believes that Hochul's actions are pathetic and that she is compromising her centrist stance to appease the progressive wing of her party. The article suggests that Hochul's attempt to curry favor with Mamdani and his supporters may backfire, as they are unlikely to be swayed by her gestures. The author urges Hochul to stand up to the radicals and not give in to their demands if Mamdani wins his election.

A couple was caught on security cameras having sex inside a rose-themed restaurant in Scottsdale, Arizona, before breaking in and stealing cash, liquor, and a phone. The incident occurred at Mon Cheri, a popular bachelorette party and date-night destination known for its pink décor and Instagram-ready displays. The suspects, who were not identified, made off with about $450 in cash, an iPhone 5, and a bottle of Bacardi rum. The restaurant's owner, Lexi Caliskan, described the incident as 'disturbing' and reopened the business the same day.

Former President Barack Obama was 'not happy' with Rep. Nancy Pelosi's quick endorsement of Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee after Joe Biden dropped out of the 2024 presidential race. According to a new book by ABC News' Jonathan Karl, Obama and Pelosi had previously agreed to let 'a process' determine the party's nominee, but Pelosi endorsed Harris less than 24 hours after Biden's withdrawal. Obama called Pelosi to express his frustration, with one source describing the conversation as 'good-natured ribbing,' while another said Obama sounded 'genuinely irritated.' The book, 'Retribution,' reveals that Obama had concerns about Harris' competence and ability to beat Trump in the general election. Obama eventually endorsed Harris five days after Biden dropped out.

Social media influencer Ben Bader has died at the age of 25, according to his girlfriend Reem, who shared the news in a heartbreaking TikTok post. Bader, a Miami-based influencer with over 200,000 followers across Instagram, TikTok, and X, gave lifestyle and financial advice to his audience. His cause of death remains unknown, and Reem described it as 'extremely sudden.' Friends and followers have posted emotional tributes to Bader, praising his kindness, generosity, and positive influence.

Taiwan's military is preparing for a potential attack or blockade by China, with Lt. Gen. Sun Li-fang stating that Taiwan has 'holistic plans to breach any blockade' and will urge its allies to treat a blockade as an act of war. China has been conducting training missions in the western Pacific to expand its anti-access/area-denial capabilities. Taiwan is prioritizing asymmetric warfare, expanding production of unmanned and AI-driven systems, and dispersing command-and-control networks. The Taiwanese government is stressing that an attack or blockade would not just be a local confrontation but a global crisis.

Multiple suspects have been arrested in connection with the theft of crown jewels from the Louvre Museum in Paris. The heist, which occurred last weekend, saw thieves steal jewels valued at $102 million. French officials say investigators made the arrests on Saturday evening, including one man who was taken into custody as he was about to leave the country. The thieves used a basket lift to scale the Louvre's façade, forced open a window, and smashed display cases. The Louvre's director acknowledged a 'terrible failure' in the museum's security. The investigation is ongoing, with over 100 investigators working to recover the stolen jewels and apprehend all perpetrators.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is consolidating power by promoting younger loyalists and family members to key roles amid growing instability within the Kremlin due to his advanced age and pressure from domestic and international fronts. Putin's efforts include elevating his first cousin once removed, Anna Evgenievna Tsivilyova, née Putina, to prominent positions. Experts warn that despite the current stability, the regime may face challenges as Putin ages and the war in Ukraine continues, potentially leading to recession and increased opposition.

The US is seeking partnerships with African nations to reduce its dependence on China for rare earth minerals, which are crucial for various industries including electronics, renewable energy, and national defense. China currently dominates the global rare earth minerals market, accounting for 60% of extraction and 85% of processing capacity. The Trump administration is working to expand the US presence in Africa's mining trade, with a focus on countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania, Angola, Malawi, and South Africa. The US is committed to making targeted investments in infrastructure to facilitate the export of minerals from Africa to global markets, including a $550 million loan to develop the Lobito Corridor, an 800-mile-long rail and infrastructure link to the mineral-rich regions of the DRC and Zambia.

Australian scientists have tracked a freshwater Murray cod named Arnie, who swam a record 530 miles along a major river system, mostly upstream. The fish was tagged in 2022 and traveled an initial 470 miles upstream in under two months during floods. The removal of barriers along the Murray River allowed Arnie to cover longer distances. Researchers believe this achievement is a record for the species and provides valuable insights into the behavior and habitat needs of Murray cod. The species is listed as vulnerable due to declining populations caused by commercial fishing, overfishing, and river degradation.

Lithuania's government has accused Belarus and Russia of 'deliberate escalation of hybrid warfare' after a series of unidentified balloons launched from Belarus forced the repeated closure of Vilnius International Airport. Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene announced that Lithuania will start shooting down any further balloons detected in its airspace. The incidents have sparked concerns among NATO allies, with Lithuania's Foreign Minister calling for further sanctions against Belarus and stronger NATO security measures. The balloons are believed to be used by smugglers to transport contraband cigarettes into Lithuania.

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that Russia has successfully tested a new nuclear-capable cruise missile called Burevestnik, which has an almost unlimited range and can evade missile defense systems. The test, which covered 14,000 kilometers in 15 hours, is seen as part of Russia's nuclear messaging to the West, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The Burevestnik missile has been in development since 2018, despite skepticism from Western experts due to its nuclear engine and potential environmental risks. Putin's announcement comes as Russia continues to escalate its military activities, including recent drills of its strategic nuclear forces.

US Vice-President J.D. Vance has taken on a more visible role in recent weeks, shifting his positions on various issues, which could test his appeal as a potential face of the Republican Party for the next generation. He has been actively involved in foreign policy, supporting a US-brokered ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, and has been a vocal critic of Democrats on social media and from the White House, particularly on issues like redistricting and government shutdown.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford refused to apologize for a TV commercial that sparked controversy during US-Canada trade talks. The ad, which cited former US President Ronald Reagan's opposition to tariffs, was deemed 'fake' and 'fraudulent' by US President Donald Trump, leading him to terminate trade talks and threaten to hike tariffs on Canada by 10%. Ford claimed the ad achieved its goal of starting a conversation with the American people and defended it against accusations of being misleading.

Malaysia is experiencing a resurgence in train travel, with the Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) rail network providing essential connectivity to rural areas and industrial parks. The Komuter Utara service, launched in 2015, has benefited many Malaysians, including workers like Nuhairi Ismail who commute to Penang's industrial parks. The KTM network, which stretches from Singapore to the Thai border, offers various rail services, including the high-speed Electric Train Service (ETS) and the scenic Jungle Railway. The rail revival is driven by improved infrastructure, including the upcoming East Coast Rail Link and Penang Light Rail Transit. Train travel is not only a practical option for commuters but also a popular choice for adventurers and nostalgia seekers.

The US government shutdown is threatening various antipoverty programs, including SNAP (food stamps), WIC, and Head Start, which millions of low-income Americans rely on for basic needs like groceries, utilities, and childcare. Without funding, these programs may run out of money, leaving families struggling to make ends meet. The shutdown is exacerbating existing stress and uncertainty for vulnerable populations, including low-income older Americans and families with young children. Experts warn that the loss of these benefits could have severe consequences, including increased food insecurity and difficulty accessing essential services.

Former US President Donald Trump has formally appealed his Manhattan criminal conviction, arguing that the trial was 'fatally marred' and that the judge made crucial mistakes. Trump's lawyers claim that the prosecution's case relied on a novel and complex legal theory that was flawed, and that the judge improperly allowed jurors to consider certain evidence. The appeal lists five reasons why the conviction should be overturned, including that federal election law supersedes state law and that the trial judge should have recused himself. The appeal is likely to take a long time to resolve, and Trump's lawyers have also sought a shortcut by asking a federal appeals court to take over the case.

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The Australian government has commenced its $2.5 billion deal with Nauru to offload over 350 people from the NZYQ cohort after the first person arrived on the island. The deal, expected to last 30 years, involves Australia paying Nauru $408 million annually, with $20 million available for settlement and the remaining $388 million going into a sovereign trust fund. Critics argue that the government's actions disregard the basic rights of migrants and refugees, with some facing deportation having lived in Australia most of their lives or being stateless. The details of the agreement remain secret, subject to a public interest immunity claim.